The City on the Thames
Simon Jenkins
(Author)
Description
London: a settlement founded by the Romans, occupied by the Saxons, conquered by the Danes, and ruled by the Normans. This transformative place became a medieval maze of alleys and courtyards, later to be checkered with grand estates of Georgian splendor. It swelled with industry and became the center of the largest empire in history. And having risen 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. He masterfully explains the battles that determined how London was conceived and built-and especially the perennial conflict between money and power.
Based in part on his experiences of and involvement in the events that shaped the post-war city, and with his trademark color and authority, Simon Jenkins shows above all how London has taken shape over more than two thousand years. Fascinating for locals and visitors alike, this is narrative history at its finest, from the most ardent protector of British heritage.
Product Details
| Publisher | Pegasus Books |
| Publish Date | March 29, 2022 |
| Pages | 432 |
| Language | English |
| Type |  Hardback |
| EAN/UPC | 9781643135526 |
| Dimensions | 9.1 X 5.9 X 1.7 inches | 1.4 pounds |
About the Author
Reviews
"In addition to providing an enjoyable urban history that accurately and affectionately captures the fabric and character of London history, this account also serves as an optimal guide for armchair travelers."-- "Library Journal"
"Jenkins doesn't hesitate to judge contemporary London's skyward push, referring to high-rise buildings as "slabs." Maps and many photographs help readers through the details of the London topography. Lovers of London will revel in the minutiae and find this the next best thing to actually walking London streets."-- "Booklist"
"Pure pleasure for Anglophiles and general readers!"-- "Historical Novel Review"
"For any reader seeking to understand how London became what it is today, especially how it looks on the ground, Jenkins's book will be an essential stepping-off point. Jenkin's passages on the architectural and ideological development of postwar London are masterly."-- "The Literary Review"
"Jenkins brings much knowledge and experience to his defence of London's streets, in this study of the battle for London's appearance -why it looks as it does today, more variegated and visually anarchic than any comparable city."-- "The Daily Telegraph"
"Jenkins's handling of the preceding two millennia is clear and informative. There are nuggets of wisdom and insights. Accessible, clear, and readable."-- "The Observer (London)"
"Simon Jenkins's version of London history is more political, literary and architectural. His preferred theme is the continuous rivalry and interplay of business and government, represented respectively by the City and Westminster. An accessible history that is efficient, clear and readable."-- "The Guardian"
"The ageless genre of city histories receives a fine addition. A delightful love letter to a great city."-- "Kirkus Reviews"
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