1921 Census of England and Wales reveals nation reeling from war

Census uncovers personal impact of economic turmoil, housing crisis and Spanish flu pandemic

An intimate and unique snapshot of a nation reeling from the aftermath of the first world war was made available to the public on Thursday as the National Archives' 1921 Census of England and Wales went online.

The unprecedented glimpse into life 100 years ago reveals the very personal impact of the economic turmoil, housing crisis and major social changes caused by the war and the Spanish flu pandemic, capturing the desperation, anger and sadness of the 38 million individuals who filled in the form.