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London: 1000 Years of Extraordinary but True Stories

Bryson Hayes

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Published in London S Strangest Tales: Extraordinary But True Stories From Over A Thousand Years Of London S History

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London is a city with a rich and captivating history, spanning over two thousand years. It has witnessed countless events, both ordinary and extraordinary. In this article, we will take a journey through the annals of London's past and uncover some of the most extraordinary but true stories that have shaped the city.

The Great Fire of London

One of the most well-known events in London's history is the Great Fire of London, which occurred in 1666. The fire started in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread through the city, destroying over 13,000 buildings, including St. Paul's Cathedral. The fire raged for five days and nights, leaving much of London in ruins. However, it also led to the rebuilding of the city and the creation of many of London's iconic landmarks, such as the Monument and St. Paul's Cathedral.

London's Strangest Tales: Extraordinary but true stories from over a thousand years of London's History

by Tom Quinn

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Great Fire Of London London S Strangest Tales: Extraordinary But True Stories From Over A Thousand Years Of London S History

The Great Fire of London, 1666

The Black Death

In the 14th century, London was hit by the Black Death, a devastating plague that killed an estimated one-third of the city's population. The Black Death was caused by a bacteria that was carried by fleas on rats. Symptoms of the plague included fever, chills, vomiting, and black pustules on the skin. There was no cure for the plague, and most people who contracted it died within a few days.

The Black Death, 14th century

The Great Plague

In the 17th century, London was hit by another devastating plague, known as the Great Plague. The Great Plague was caused by the same bacteria that caused the Black Death, and it killed an estimated 100,000 people in London. The Great Plague led to the closure of businesses and schools, and many people fled the city in fear.

The Great Plague, 17th century

The Great Smog

In December 1952, London was hit by a thick fog that lasted for five days. The fog was caused by a combination of smoke from coal fires and pollution from factories. The Great Smog killed an estimated 4,000 people and caused widespread respiratory problems. The Great Smog led to the passage of the Clean Air Act in 1956, which helped to improve air quality in London.

The Great Smog, 1952

The Swinging Sixties

In the 1960s, London was at the center of a cultural revolution known as the Swinging Sixties. This was a time of great social and cultural change, as young people rebelled against the traditional values of their parents. The Swinging Sixties saw the rise of pop music, fashion, and art, and London became a magnet for young people from all over the world.

The Swinging Sixties, 1960s

These are just a few of the many extraordinary but true stories from London's history. The city has witnessed countless other events, both great and small, that have shaped its development and made it one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in the world.

London's Strangest Tales: Extraordinary but true stories from over a thousand years of London's History

by Tom Quinn

4.5 out of 5