Peterloo

After the Battle of Waterloo, Joseph, a soldier in the Duke of Wellington's army, makes his way back to Manchester. He eagerly anticipates reuniting with his family, which includes his parents, Joshua and Nellie, as well as his siblings.

Joseph’s family works tirelessly at a local cotton mill, facing financial hardship as the economic downturn worsens. The pressure mounts as Joseph, traumatized by war, struggles to find work, threatening their already fragile livelihood.

The family's sympathy grows toward movements advocating for equal civil and political rights. Joseph, Joshua, and Robert begin to attend political gatherings, rallying against the oppressive Corn Laws preventing affordable grain purchases.

Activists such as John Knight, Samuel Bamford, and John Bagguley passionately voice the need for political reform. Their messages of empowerment resonate within the community, further engaging Joseph's family in the fight for justice.

Nellie joins the Manchester Female Reform Society meetings, advocating for women's rights. Her dedication to the cause demonstrates the family's broader support for social reforms amidst their personal struggles.

Local authorities, led by magistrates like Colonel Fletcher and Reverend Hay, closely monitor the growing unrest. With instructions from Lord Sidmouth, they prepare to quash any signs of radicalism among the reformers.

A seemingly minor incident involving a broken window of the Prince Regent's coach escalates tensions, prompting the suspension of habeas corpus. This governmental response signals the authorities' intent to suppress dissent.

Activists Bamford and Joseph Healey travel to London to attend Henry Hunt's political address. Their determination reflects the hunger for reforms, eager to absorb Hunt's perspectives on the urgent need for change.

Bamford persuades businessman Joseph Johnson to invite Henry Hunt to speak at St Peter's Fields. However, unbeknownst to them, the Home Office intercepts this invitation, raising the stakes for the planned assembly.

Upon arriving in Manchester, Hunt seeks refuge at Johnson's home. Tensions rise as spies incite fellow activists to call for rebellion, jeopardizing the safety of the planned gathering.

As the day of assembly approaches, the local mounted militia and army prepare for potential unrest. Despite warnings from Bamford, Hunt remains confident in leading a peaceful rally, dismissing concerns over escalating tensions.

Thousands gather in Manchester, excited to hear Henry Hunt speak. Joshua, Nellie, and others from the family join the crowd, unaware that their voices for change are about to clash violently with authority.

As Hunt begins his speech, authorities read the Riot Act, ordering the crowd to disperse. Despite the request, the crowd remains steadfast, prompting the militia to charge into the masses, escalating the situation.

In the chaos that ensues, Hunt and Johnson are arrested, while the crowd is met with brutal force from the militia and army. Joseph suffers a fatal sabre wound, marking a devastating loss for his family.

News reports flood in, branding the tragedy as 'The Massacre of Peterloo.' In stark contrast, the Prince Regent commends the magistrates for suppressing the radicals, highlighting the deep divide between the classes.