The British aircraft industry had had a good war and at the end of 1945 were probably the most advanced in the world. A combination of almost limitless war funding meant it was also one of the countries largest industrial sectors. There were some 22 British companies designing and building airframes and a further 9 manufacturing engines employing more than a million people.

All of whom now saw the government switch off the financial hose pipe. Could they adjust to the post war reality?

The South Sea Bubble of 1720 was one of the first major financial crashes in history. It a story that mixes avarice, corruption, deceit and vast sums of other peoples money all topped off with political infighting and an unpopular monarch. In this second part the bubble bursts in both London and Paris, but for different reasons. And Robert Walpole takes advantage of the chaos to take revenge and emerge as the Prime Minister.

The South Sea Bubble of 1720 was one of the first major financial crashes in history. It a story that mixes avarice, corruption, deceit and vast sums of other peoples money all topped off with political infighting and an unpopular monarch.

The company promised high returns and its stock price soared as investors rushed to buy shares. However, the company's 'profits' relied on speculation, bribing MPs and sale of its own stock to maintain high prices. The bubble burst in 1720 leading to widespread financial ruin for many investors.

The crash had significant economic and political repercussions, including the disgrace of several government officials and the rise of Robert Walpole, Britain's first Prime Minister.