Manchester history traces the development of this popular English city from a minor township to the industrial nerve center of United Kingdom through ages. Manchester history is associated with the initiation of the first public library and the first passenger railway station in the world. History of Manchester is also known to have guided the 19th century economic and political reforms in Britain, acting as the precursor to free trade.
In spite of a number of archaeological remnants found in Manchester, there is hardly any evidence to prove the settlement of pre-Romans in Manchester.
History of Manchester
The Roman Ages
Romans rule in Manchester started around 80 A.D., with the establishment of a temporary wooden fort by Gnaeus Julius Agricola, while campaigning against the powerful Brigantes tribe. Later, the Roman Auxiliary troops comprising some infantries and cavalries forcefully occupied the fort. The members of these Roman troops were not Romans but mercenaries, wearing local dresses and carrying circular shields.
The Middle Age
During the Middle Age, Manchester emerged as the administrative center of a collection of mansions called the “Honour”, belonging to the De Greley or the De Grelle family. This English city became a part of the Hundred of Salford. However, owing to the issuance of two charters, Manchester was separated from Salford, and it developed as the most important place in Britain. The 14th century saw Manchester emerge as a popular market place and home to the Flemish weaver community.
Industrialization of Manchester
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With the advent of the 16th century, Manchester had already become a prosperous market town, with respect to the trading of wools. This was the period which saw the English Reformation and the re-establishment of the collegiate church as a significant Protestant organization. However, with the beginning of fustian weaving in the first half of the century, the importance of Manchester increased further.
In the 17th century, the development of textile industry and acquaintances with the London City made Manchester as a well-known Puritan center. During this time Manchester started participating in the English politics by supporting the Parliament in its quarrel with Charles the First, which culminated into the Civil Was of England. After England was proclaimed a Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell, Manchester was awarded one Parliamentary seat for the first time.
Industrial Revolution in Manchester
Manchester during the Industrial Revolution
Towards the later part of the 18th century, Manchester became an important center from where the Industrial Revolution triggered off. One reason for this was that the elevated topography and the moist climatic conditions of northern and eastern Manchester. It supported the construction of hydro-powered cotton mills at Quarry Bank. The Quarry Bank Cotton Mill revolutionized the process of cloth spinning and weaving. The industrial Revolution transformed Manchester into distribution center of spinning yarn, raw cotton and finished products. The growth of the city also led to the expansion of its transportation links and the excellent rail, road and waterways facilitated the movement if raw materials and finished goods.
The affluence of Manchester textile industry contributed towards the development of the city and its surrounding areas, triggering-off educational and scientific activities in Manchester.
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