The Times London History Atlas
Not just another history atlas, this comes packed chock-full of bright and bold maps, charts, diagrams, and pictures and fully lives up to the promise in the introduction of "a visual celebration of two thousand years of urban develop ment." London is tracked from Roman times to the present with a wealth of me ticulously researched detail. Beginning with a concise chronology divided into areas of major importance (History, Politics, and Society; Commerce, Industry, and Infrastructure; Building and Architecture; Institutions and Popular Culture; Science and the Arts), the atlas is ar ranged chronologically for ease of research. The two final chapters cover various themes (pollution, immigration, Royal London, the London of Dickens, theatrical London) and places in London (bridges, docklands, underground London, monuments, and cemeteries). There's also the London That Never Was, an intriguing peek at plans for a rebuilt city after the Great Fire of 1666, and a look at the London of the Future. The strength of this atlas lies in its prodigiously detailed account of London's social and economic conditions. Maps and charts appear for every possible subject ranging from churches in 1300 to trade routes, bowling alleys, and tennis courts in the late 18th century, hospitals and sewers in Victorian London, and a cross section of Selfridge's Department Store. The chronological format is clear and well organized; "see also" margin notes direct readers to related topics. An etymology of London placenames is invaluable (where did Stinking Lane get its name, and what is it called today?), as is the comprehensive index. In short, this is a welcome addition to any library where the search for in-depth background information of ten comes up empty. Recommended.- Nancy L. Whitfield, Meriden P.L., Ct.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.