1776: A London Chronicle, or How to Divert Oneself while Losing an Empire

In 1776, Edmund Burke wrote that London was a people who had just lost an empire, while duels, eloping, plays, highway robberies, masquerades, and daily life continued much as usual. This book seeks to answer the question of what it was like to be living in London by way of a daily chronicle of the year's stories, including the trial of the Duchess of Kingston, David Garrick's farewell to the stage, Captain Cook's final voyage, and the publication of Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 768 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2019
Publisher: The Bunbury Press

Edmund Burke's words from 1776 still echo today, as we reflect upon the loss of an empire. While the turmoil across the Atlantic raged with cities burning and muskets blazing, life in London continued much as usual. Duels, elopments, plays, highway robberies, masquerades, and daily life unfolded amidst the backdrop of this momentous year.

Much has been written about the events in America during this time, but what was it like to live in London? This book seeks to answer that question through a daily chronicle, drawing from a wealth of previously unpublished material, including diaries, letters, newspaper reports, and state papers.

Among the notable events of that year were the trial of the Duchess of Kingston for bigamy, the farewell of David Garrick to the stage, Captain Cook's final voyage, and the publication of Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations. These events unfolded alongside a host of forgotten stories, characters, and incidents, creating a revealing portrait of London in a momentous year.

As we delve into this chronicle, we witness the resilience and adaptability of the people of London, who continued to live their lives amidst the changing political landscape. The city buzzed with activity, with theaters and public spaces filled with audiences eager to engage with the world around them.

The trials and tribulations of the individuals and families living in London during this time are also brought to life. We hear about the struggles of the working class, the challenges faced by women and children, and the impact of war on the city.

In conclusion, this book offers a unique perspective on London in 1776, shedding light on a year that marked a significant turning point in world history. Through a wealth of primary sources and previously unpublished material, it provides a rich and detailed account of the lives and experiences of the people who lived in London during this momentous year.

Weight: 1308g
Dimension: 165 x 241 x 50 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780956204615