James Nesbitt: Disasters that Changed Britain
Examining the most devastating tragedies in British history while seeking to explain the wider political, cultural and institutional context that contributed to them. Also looks at the changes made in the wake of each disaster.
- 2018-2018
- 1 season
- Amazon Prime Video
- Documentary
Examining the most devastating tragedies in British history while seeking to explain the wider political, cultural and institutional context that contributed to them. Also looks at the changes made in the wake of each disaster.
Season 1 Episode Guide
6 Episodes 2018
Episode 1
Paddington Rail Crash
In 1994, the British railways were privatized and it was only a matter of time before the accident occurred, which shook England to its foundations. An ignored red signal and under-skilled labor resulted in 31 deaths.
Episode 2
Zeebrugge Ferry Disaster
In the 1980s, jumping across the English Channel was popular, but in the accelerated race, tragedy was inevitable. It led to the Zeebrugge ship disaster that claimed 193 lives.
Episode 3
Piper Alpha
In 1970, British Petroleum was producing oil in the North Sea and promised steady work amid industrial unrest. But in 1988, due to the company's mismanagement, a gas leak killed 167 people.
Episode 4
Munich Air Crash
In 1958, Manchester United was returning from a European Cup match. On the way home, their plane couldn't take off on the icy runway. After the third attempt, they ran into a fence, broke in two. The tragedy claimed the lives of 23 people.
Episode 5
King's Cross Fire
Delayed investments, the missing fire protection policy and the inadequate smoking ban had tragic consequences. In 1987, a series of fatal decisions led to the deaths of 31 people at King's Cross station.
Episode 6
Grenfell Tower
The high-rise buildings built in the 1950s were completely destroyed by the 1970s. In 2017, ignored signals, uncertain regulations and profiteering led to the biggest tower block fire in British history causing 72 lives.