Historically London
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Other.
The Rich History of London
Summary:
London's history as a permanent settlement stretches back nearly two thousand years, intricately woven with the fortunes of the British Isles.
A Glimpse into London's Past
London was established by the Romans at a strategic crossing of the Thames around AD 67. Tacitus described it as a thriving trading city even then. Though the area was marshy, a low hill, where the Bank of England now stands, was chosen by the Romans to build a typical Roman city, mainly for military purposes.
At that time, England was a mosaic of tribes and small kingdoms, which the Romans subdued with relative ease despite some spirited resistance. The locals soon adopted Roman culture, becoming, in many ways, more Roman than the Romans themselves. After the Romans withdrew due to frontier pressures, the Saxons took control. Disliking the old Roman city, they established their own settlement of long huts, near what is now Covent Garden.
The Rise of Mercantile Power
With the Norman takeover, the foundations of a mercantile capital began to solidify. A citizens’ charter and a tradesmen's confederation emerged, balancing the aristocracy’s influence. London became a leading trading port in Western Europe, with merchants from Italy, the Netherlands, France, and Germany living around the river. The Old London Bridge, until 1769, was the only crossing.
By the late 16th century, England's future as a global trading power was being forged with the establishment of several Trading Companies, like The East India Company and The Muscovy Company. These, along with Britain’s naval strength, introduced management techniques still admired by corporations worldwide.
Resilience and Renewal
The Plague in 1665 and the Great Fire of 1666 jolted London out of its comfort but also sparked a wave of property development. This era's architects, including the predecessors of Sir Richard Rogers, began shaping the city skyline.
Into the 18th century, redevelopment continued with the rise of iconic structures like The Bank of England and many of the Thames bridges. The Victorian era witnessed London's transformation into a modern city, with the development of sewers, underground railways, and overground railways expanding the city's reach. The port of London enjoyed its final golden age.
Meanwhile, Westminster, home to Royal Palaces and Westminster Abbey, gained prominence. Officially recognized as a city with its own mayor in 1900, it became an integral part of London's identity.
Surviving the Modern Age
The two World Wars inflicted significant damage on London, both physically and socially. The subsequent rebuilding efforts were criticized for lacking conservation. However, London’s architectural revival began with the completion of the Lloyd’s building by Sir Richard Rogers in 1979, as the city started to rival Paris in its grand projects.
Today, London stands as a testament to history, resilience, and innovation. From its Roman roots to its modern skyline, the city continues to evolve while honoring its rich past.
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