The Old Contemptibles: Britain’s First Steps Into World War I

At the outbreak of hostilities in 1914 Britain deployed a modest but well‑trained expeditionary force that proved both an asset and a warning about limited engagement. The episode traces how the BEF’s experience from Mons to the Great Retreat forced Britain to rethink its war strategy, leading to the mass expansion of the army and reshaping the conduct of the Western Front. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices