A Dictionary of British and Irish History

R

RADAR

see WATSON‐WATT, ROBERT; DOWDING, HUGH

RADCOT BRIDGE, BATTLE OF

see RICHARD II; APPELLANTS

RADICALS

Term first used in the 1820s to describe campaigners for fundamental political reform from the late 18th century, some organized in extraparliamentary associations such as the Corresponding Societies of the 1790s. Radicals’ demands from the 1760s onwards included a broader suffrage (eligibility to vote), frequent general elections, measures to prevent parliamentary corruption, and lower taxation. The term remained in general use for proponents of fundamental political and social reforms until the early 20th century.

RADICAL WAR

Anti‐government activity in early April 1820; the most serious challenge to authority in Scotland during the 1819–20 depression. On 1 April, 60,000 workers in and around GLASGOW (W‐C Scotland) went on strike, expecting an uprising in England. A group marching on the Carron ironworks at Falkirk (Stirlingshire) was scattered (‘battle of Bonnymuir’); three men were later executed. See also PETERLOO.

RADIO BROADCASTING, GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND

In 1920 the Marconi Company made experimental broadcasts, then operated two local stations, ‘2MT’ (1922–3) and ‘2LO’ (from May 1922). The POST OFFICE (licensing authority) persuaded intending broadcasters to form a national British Broadcasting Company (BBC), funded partly by licences. It used 2LO’s equipment, in LONDON, from 14 Nov. 1922, with John REITH becoming general manager (Dec.).