Mud, Blood and Poppycock

Published on 27 April 2021
Submitted by Gordon Corrigan

This talk by Gordon Corrigan was delivered 'live' to an online audience.

The popular view of the First World War remains that of 'Blackadder': incompetent generals sending brave soldiers to their deaths. Alan Clark quoted a German general's remark that the British soldiers were 'lions led by donkeys'. But he made it up. 

Indeed, many established 'facts' about 1914-18 turn out to be myths woven in the 1960s by young historians on the make. Gordon Corrigan's brilliant, witty presentation will reveal how out of touch the public have become with the soldiers of 1914-18. They simply would not recognize the way their generation is depicted on TV or in Pat Barker's novels.

Mud, Blood and Poppycock
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Local Branch Icon
Your local WFA branch

With around 50 branches, there may be one near you. The branch meetings are open to all.

Trenchmaper Icon
TrenchMapper

Utilise this tool to overlay historical trench maps with modern maps, enhancing battlefield research and exploration.

Standto Icon
Stand To!

Receive four issues annually of this prestigious journal, featuring deeply researched articles, book reviews and historical analysis.

Other Articles

James Marshall VC
22 December 2025

The Making of a Hero: James Neville Marshall VC

Read more
Sambre Canal. Surrey Live
21 December 2025

Not 'Coming up with the rations': The award of the final wartime second bar to the MM

Read more
01. Marko, P.61
17 December 2025

Le Roi des Montagnes, the French, and Floatplanes

Read more
The Oak & Laurel (1)
17 December 2025

The Oak and Laurel

Read more
1.25Th Cyclists
5 December 2025

From Putney Bridge to Jallianwala Bagh: The 1/25th County of London Cyclists 1914-1919

Read more