The film concludes with the depiction of the Peterloo Massacre itself. The peaceful assembly, consisting of working-class individuals advocating for political representation and reform, is met with a brutal response from the authorities. The local magistrates, fearing a threat to public order, order the Manchester and Salford Yeomanry and the Hussars to disperse the crowd.
The cavalry charges into the crowd, creating chaos and panic. The scenes are intense and depict the violence that unfolded on that fateful day. The film does not shy away from portraying the brutality of the massacre, with many innocent people, including women and children, becoming victims.
Following the massacre, the film shows the aftermath and the impact it has on the survivors and their families. There is a sense of shock, grief, and anger among the characters who witnessed or experienced the tragic events. The film ends with a focus on the resilience of those who survived and the ongoing struggle for political reform in the face of oppression.
“Peterloo” is known for its historical accuracy and its portrayal of a significant moment in the fight for democratic rights in Britain. The ending reflects the somber and tragic nature of the Peterloo Massacre, emphasizing the importance of remembering historical events that shaped the pursuit of social and political justice.