An extensive programme of research, both experimental and theoretical, into the stability and dynamics of Z‐pinches has led to the funding of the DZP Project to study both radiative collapse of Z‐pinch plasmas and pinches close to thermonuclear fusion conditions. The MAGPIE (Mega‐Ampere Generator for Plasma Implosion Experiments) generator (2.4MV, 336kJ, 200ns) is now being commissioned ready for Z‐pinch experiments commencing this summer. The design of the generator has been determined by the perceived requirements demanded by consideration of (a) fusion conditions with end losses to electrodes, (b) radiative collapse at currents well above the Pease‐Braginskii limit, and (c) stability studies particularly under large ion Larmor radius conditions. As a result, and in contrast to other generators in the>1TWclass this has a long pulse length (200ns) and a final line impedance of 1.25 ohm. The stability regimes together with theoretical and experimental results are reviewed in the framework of the I4a‐N diagram. Our understanding (albeit incomplete) of other phenomena characteristic of Z‐pinches, namely the formation of electron beams, dense spots of intense X‐ray emission, ion beams and filaments will be summarised.