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A Short History of London

The Creation of a World Capital
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( 892 ratings, 88 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The History of London by Simon Jenkins offers an engaging and insightful exploration of London’s evolution from a Roman settlement to one of the most influential cities in the world. Jenkins captures the city's dynamic history, highlighting pivotal events and key figures that shaped its development. It's a vivid portrayal of London's transformation across the centuries, providing both historical context and vibrant anecdotes.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the vibrant and diverse history of one of the world's greatest cities. The author takes you on a lively journey through London's past, offering a rich tapestry of events, people, and iconic landmarks, making it perfect for history enthusiasts and urban explorers alike.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Following his bestselling short histories of England and Europe comes the final in the trilogy - London.

London - a settlement founded by the Romans, occupied by the Saxons, conquered by the Danes and ruled by the Normans. This unremarkable place - not even included in the Domesday Book - became a medieval maze of alleys and courtyards, later to be chequered with grand estates of Georgian splendour. It swelled with industry and became the centre of the largest empire in history. And rising from the rubble of the Blitz, it is now one of the greatest cities in the world.

From the prehistoric occupants of the Thames Valley to the preoccupied commuters of today, Simon Jenkins brings together the key events, individuals and trends in London's history to create a matchless portrait of the capital. Based in part on his own witness of the events that shaped the post-war city, and with his trademark colour and authority, he shows above all how London has taken shape over more than two thousand years. This is narrative history at its finest, from the most ardent protector of our heritage.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Reviews of A Short History of London by Simon Jenkins praise the book for being fascinating, timely, and informative, with a clear narrative that highlights London's evolving cityscape. Jenkins is commended for his vivid storytelling and deep knowledge, especially regarding London's planning and architecture. The book is seen as accessible and readable, offering insights and judgements valuable for anyone interested in the city's unique appearance and history.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241985359

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 16 July 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 351g

Pages: 432

About the Author

Simon Jenkins is author of the bestselling A Short History of England, A Short History of Europe, Britain's 100 Best Railway Stations, England's Thousand Best Churches and England's Thousand Best Houses. He is a former Editor of the Evening Standard and The Times, and columnist for the Guardian.

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