The Plimsoll Sensation

This enthusiastically reviewed, scrupulously researched and prize-winning book, which
was a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week, chronicles a resonant episode of Victorian history.
It is the tale of the agitation led by Samuel Plimsoll MP, ‘The Sailor’s Friend’, and by
his wife Eliza, who worked together to defend sailors against nefarious practices
including overloading and the use of unseaworthy ‘coffin-ships’. The backlash of libel
cases and vilification almost ruined Plimsoll, but his drive and passion made him
feverishly popular with the public; he was the subject of plays, novels, street ballads
and music hall songs. With the demonstrative support of the nation, he faced down his
enemies, came close to ousting Disraeli’s government and achieved lasting safety
measures for merchant sailors, including the load line that bears his name. Nicolette
Jones throws light on a cross-section of Victorian society and tells the story of an
epic legal, social, and political battle for justice, which is still an inspiring
example of how the altruism and courage of determined individuals can make the world a
better place.