In Service of Society: King's and World War One

By drawing on resources from the King's Archives, we can reflect on the many and varied contributions the university made to the war effort.

King's Research leads the way

Throughout the conflict, King’s research played a pivotal role. This included chemical analysis of German glass used for optical and scientific instruments, such as telescopes, enabling English firms to manufacture it themselves. King's also trained thousands of munitions workers and aeronautical inspectors, also providing language courses for interpreters and liaison officers.

Students analysed thousands of samples of coal tar for its toluene content – necessary for the explosive in shells.

To offset debilitating food shortages, Professor William Bottomley of the Botanical Department developed a ‘bacterised peat’ to increase the yield of farmland, while colleagues investigated the nutritional value of vegetables.

On a political front, through his contact with the Prime Minister of Greece, King’s Principal, Dr Ronald Burrows, helped to convince Greece to join the war supporting the Allies.

King's in London

During the war King's grew as part of a new business community in the heart of London, with public lectures, drawing huge audiences among lawyers, bankers and City workers on their way home through the Aldwych business district. Topics covered included The War and the Problems of Empire; The University and the Nation, and The Visions of a World Peace.

By the end of the war, King’s had successfully integrated female staff and students into a formerly all-male campus and, in 1919, first-hand accounts detailed how some classes had a ‘remarkably complete equality’ with white colonels and black privates seated side by side.

A century later, King's strong commitment to working in Service of Society remains a core value, upheld by our staff, students and alumni.

About King's Archives

“King’s Archives is a unique and world-renowned resource for the history of medicine, science, technology, warfare, Victorian London and much more – and it’s open to all.  Click here to find out more.”