Dr David Clarke: The Angels of Mons

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2014 marks the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War and the birth of the most enduring legend of that conflict, The Angels of Mons. The ferocity of the battle and fear of early defeat encouraged an atmosphere on the Home Front that was receptive to the supernatural. From this cauldron of hope, faith and fear emerged an inspiring story of warrior angels that appeared to save British troops from the German onslaught in Belgium.

The legend became part of the folk memory of the war and encouraged those who believed the Allies had divine support on the battlefield. This talk by Sheffield Hallam University journalism lecturer David Clarke launches his new book Britain’s X-traordinary Files, published by Bloomsbury/The National Archives

Each regular gathering starts with the Fortmanteau, our with our monthly round-up of fortean news stories from the month.