George Robey & Horatio Bottomley recruiting in London
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George Robey & Horatio Bottomley recruiting in London
Popular music hall star, George Robey, known as the Prime Minister of Mirth, pictured speaking at a recruitment rally in Trafalgar Square, London in 1915 alongside Horatio Bottomley, jingoistic proprietor of John Bull magazine and swindler. Robey was eventually received a knighthood. Bottomley went to prison. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14155838
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Bottomley Bull Horatio Jingoistic Oratory Patriotic Patriotism Persuasion Rally Recruiting Recruitment Robey Speaking Speech Speeches Swindler Trafalgar Orators
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the spirit of patriotic fervor that gripped London during the early years of the First World War. In the heart of the city, at Trafalgar Square, two prominent figures of the era stood before a large crowd, urging men to join the ranks of the British Army. George Robey, affectionately known as the "Prime Minister of Mirth," was a popular music hall star, renowned for his comic oratory and ability to entertain large audiences. With a natural charisma and a knack for connecting with the public, Robey was an ideal choice to lend his voice to the war effort. Standing beside him was Horatio Bottomley, the jingoistic proprietor of the John Bull magazine. Known for his fiery rhetoric and provocative writings, Bottomley was a divisive figure who often pushed the boundaries of acceptable discourse. Despite his controversial reputation, he too was a passionate advocate for the war and used his platform to encourage enlistment. The photograph captures a pivotal moment in history, as these two influential figures rallied the public to support the war effort. The crowd, filled with a sense of duty and patriotism, listened intently to their words, many no doubt inspired to answer the call to the front. Though their methods and motivations may have differed, Robey and Bottomley shared a common goal: to persuade the people of London to join the fight and help secure a victory for the Allies. This powerful image serves as a poignant reminder of the role that public oratory and persuasion played in shaping the course of the First World War.
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