ABSTRACT
“Patriot” describes the serious attempt made by Bottomley to re-invent himself during the 1914–18 war. During the conflict, after an initial wobble in which he supported Austria over Serbia, Bottomley promoted himself as one of the most belligerent champions of the British war interest. His papers called for attacks on German residents in England, and he demanded a policy of annexations and reparations after the war. Slowly, the group of Bottomley’s permanent antagonists was growing – now joined by a printer, Reuben Bigland. Bottomley demanded hundreds of pounds from theatre promoters for speeches cajoling young men to volunteer for the Army. The newspapers campaigned for him to be given a seat in the War Cabinet. Bottomley met Lloyd George, and expected some official recognition, however it was refused.
