It is hard to imagine but most of our great artistic institutions are very young indeed. Some of our most famous such as the Royal Ballet, the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company being created only after the Second World War. This course will explore the history of music, theatre, literature, publishing, the visual arts, museums, cinema and broadcasting. It will examine the crucial role of private business, personal philanthropy and artistic vision – plus the involvement of successive governments – in ultimately creating one of the most vibrant and economically important arts cultures in the world. No prior knowledge will be assumed and everyone is welcome.