Lancastrians: Mills, Mines and Minarets: A New History

A new history of Lancashire explores its people's impact on Britain and beyond, from its agricultural roots to the Industrial Revolution and cultural blossoming. It has welcomed incomers and is now facing modern upheavals and fragmentation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

A comprehensive and groundbreaking new history of the illustrious English county of Lancashire, delving into its profound impact on Britain and the world at large.

This captivating account delves into the rich cultural heritage and identity of Lancashire, spanning from the scenic Mersey to the breathtaking Lake District. Author Paul Salveson takes readers on a journey through the county's remarkable transformation, from a predominantly agricultural region renowned for its religious learning and scholarly pursuits to a bustling hub of industrial prowess during the Industrial Revolution. As an emerging self-confident bourgeoisie propelled economic growth, Lancashire witnessed a remarkable cultural blossoming, giving rise to the vibrant and diverse county we know today.

Industrialists in Lancashire were deeply committed to the arts, endowing galleries and museums that fostered a diverse array of scientific, technological, musical, and literary endeavors. This cultural vibrancy led to the development of a distinct business culture, but it was also the birthplace of the world co-operative movement and the heart of democratic campaigns, including Chartism and the fight for women's suffrage. Lancashire has historically embraced a diverse range of newcomers, who have contributed significantly to shaping its unique identity. From the fourteenth-century Flemish weavers who settled in the region to nineteenth-century Irish immigrants and Jewish refugees seeking refuge, and more recently, the arrival of 'New Lancastrians' from Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe, the county has been a melting pot of cultures and traditions.

In this long-overdue book, the author delves into the contemporary culture of Lancashire, exploring the challenges and changes it has faced in the modern era. The county's fragmentation compared to its old rival, Yorkshire, is examined, as well as the potential future that awaits the vibrant 6 million people who call this rich historic region home. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of Lancashire's past, present, and potential future, shedding light on the county's enduring influence on Britain and the world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787389335