A-Z of Bradford

Bradford is a fascinating industrial city with an impressive history. In 1800 it was a small market town with one mill and a population of around 6,000. Fifty years later it was England’s fastest-growing city with 120 mills, a population of over 140,000 and, outside London, the wealthiest. It became Britain’s wool capital and many fine Victorian buildings stand today built from that wealth. In this book Martin Greenwood takes readers on an engaging and insightful journey through the city’s history. He provides a unique link to the people and places of Bradford. The city’s phenomenal growth was built on cheap labour, making it one of poorest and unhealthiest places in England. This led to radicalism and political unrest and encouraged major social reforms. Gradually Bradford improved its public services, often pioneering the way. The city has a rich culture. It has always been non-conformist in outlook. It has been the home to icons of the arts across the generations, and has a diverse and multi-cultural population. Surrounded by beautiful hills and moors to the north and west, Haworth, Ilkley, Airedale and Wharfedale, are all within the city’s boundaries. Illustrated throughout, ‘A-Z of Bradford’ will be of immense interest to residents and visitors alike.