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Indlæser... A Short History of London: The Creation of a World Capitalaf Simon Jenkins
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Bliv medlem af LibraryThing for at finde ud af, om du vil kunne lide denne bog. Der er ingen diskussionstråde på Snak om denne bog. Great if you're interested in the history of the governance and architecture of London, not so much if you're intrigued by the capital's people and culture. I didn't feel the book captures what makes the city so great and unique very well, and it's quite dry as a read (particularly as an audiobook). ingen anmeldelser | tilføj en anmeldelse
By the former editor of the London Times, a vivid, evocative, and deeply knowledgeable history of this unique world capital. 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. No library descriptions found. |
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Google Books — Indlæser... GenrerMelvil Decimal System (DDC)942.1History and Geography Europe England and Wales LondonLC-klassificeringVurderingGennemsnit:
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Given that London has had little self-government throughout its history, Jenkins doesn't spend as much time on politics, but he does cover the highlights, with a focus on how London has dealt with its poor through the centuries. He highlights some notable reformers along the way.
Reading the book, you'll be turning to Wikipedia and Google to take a look at the places Jenkins lovingly or loathingly describes, so this won't be the quick read you are expecting. You'll get no resistance from Jenkins' writing however; he writes very well and his prose is highly readable with the exception of an unknown Briticism here and there.
Definitely recommended for the serious tourist, expat, or parent whose daughter just started studying there :-). ( )