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"Stop the War" Demonstration in Trafalgar Square
The crowds gather in Trafalgar Square to join a rally for peace - two days before Britain declares war on Germany
Overview
Crowds gathered on Sunday 2 August 1914 for a peace rally in Trafalgar Square, two days before Britain declared war on Germany. This was one of several protests organised across the UK by the Independent Labour Party and it was addressed by Keir Hardie MP, among many others, with 10,000 people reportedly in attendance.
Public opinion was divided about the imminent war, with many wondering why Britain should get involved with a conflict in the Balkans and Eastern Europe. There was also a gathering of crowds on 4 August in support of Britain’s intervention in the war.
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