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London location and orientation provides an insight into the different facets of the city.
London location and orientation entails information about the geographical location of the British capital, its history and cultural orientation.
Location of London
London is the capital of United Kingdom. London City is located at 51º 30' N and 00º 30' W. It is located within the county of Greater London. It is at times also known as ‘Square Mile’ as the area of the city spans about one square mile. The population of the city is about 8 million. The city is divided into 32 boroughs for the purpose of effective administration. River Thames is perhaps the most important feature of the city's landscape.
London History
London, since ancient times, has always occupied a place of great importance. It had been set up as a separate administrative unit since the time of Alfred the Great. A separate code of law was formed for the merchant class of the city. William, the Conqueror, tried to make his way into London after the
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conclusion of the Battle of Hastings. But he was unsuccessful in defeating the people of London and therefore did not succeed in crossing London Bridge. He had to cross the River Thames at Wallingford. William, the Conqueror, thus decided to grant the people of London the Charter of 1075.
London acquired the status of a county in 1132 and around 1141 the City of London Corporation came into being. The Middle Ages saw London attain great economic prosperity. The city remained practically unscathed by wars which engulfed most of Europe in the Middle Ages. In 1588, after the British forces succeeded in defeating the Spanish Armada, London flourished on account of a stable political condition. In the later years, from the period of 1831-1925, it was regarded as the largest city in the world.
London Culture
At present, London is one of the leading industrial, commercial, cultural and financial hubs in the world. The museums in the city are a reflection of the cultural orientation of the city. The National Gallery, Tate Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum have carefully preserved the antiques of the bygone era.
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