From AD 61, when Queen Boudicca - outraged at her treatment at the hands of the Romans - marched on the city and burned it to the ground, London has been hit by wave upon wave of destruction. This fascinating and unique book tells the story of 2000 years of disaster - from fire, water, disease, pollution, accident, storm, riot, terrorism and enemy action.
It chronicles well-known disasters like the Great Plague of 1665 and the Blitz, as well as lesser-known events such as whirlwinds and earthquakes, and includes the human stories behind the various catastrophes.
'The Disastrous History of London' ultimately celebrates the spirit of the people of London who have risen above all the disasters and for whom London is still a great city in which to live and work.
Contents:
Acknowledgements
Part 1: Hostile Action
1. War and Invasion
2. Rebellion and Riot
3. Air Raids
4. Terrorism
Part 2: Fires
5. Great Fires of London
6. Enter the Firemen
7. London's Still Burning
Part 3: Accidents
8. Crushes, Collapses and Fatal False Alarms
9. Explosions
10. Death by Water
11. Train Crashes
12. Air Crashes
Part 4: Acts of God
13. Plague
14. Cholera, Flu and Fog
15. Wild Weather
16. Earthquake, Famine and Flood
Bibliography
Index
Review:... will leave you wondering how on earth the city has lasted so long - Living History
... takes a fond but hair-raising look at London and its people over many centuries. A tale of epic proportions ... - The Good Book Guide
... an engaging and sobering read - Metropolitan life Magazine
