Orphans of Empire: The Fate of London's Foundlings

Captain Thomas Coram witnessed the widespread abandonment of infant corpses by the roadside in eighteenth-century London, leading him to create the London Foundling Hospital. Orphans of Empire tells the story of the thousands of children who were raised at the Foundling Hospital, providing insights into their lives and fortunes. The book also reveals previously untold stories of former foundlings, including their experiences as child workers during the Industrial Revolution. George King's autobiography provides touching insights into how he came to terms with his upbringing, and his personal courage and resilience in overcoming the disadvantages of his birth are a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 September 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In the bustling city of London during the 18th century, life was a tapestry of diversity and vitality, yet poverty was a persistent companion, never far from the forefront of society. A legendary tale tells of a remarkable encounter that Captain Thomas Coram, a compassionate soul, had during his daily commute through the bustling metropolis. It was a sight that would forever sear his memory—the widespread abandonment of infant corpses by the roadside.

He could have turned a blind eye, choosing to ignore the plight of these vulnerable beings. Yet, Coram's heart stirred with empathy, and he resolved to take action. He envisioned a charity that would provide care and support for these abandoned infants, a beacon of hope for children born into poverty in Britain over the coming centuries.

Thus, the London Foundling Hospital was born, a testament to Coram's unwavering dedication and vision. Opened in 1741, this remarkable institution grew to become the most famous charity in Georgian England, touching the lives of thousands of children. Orphans of Empire, a captivating book, delves into the rich tapestry of the lives and fortunes of these foundlings, offering a poignant and intimate glimpse into their world.

From the earliest days of the Foundling Hospital to the mid-Victorian era, when the works of Charles Dickens inspired him to champion the cause of orphans, the story unfolds like a captivating narrative. Through the lives of these foundlings, readers are granted a street-level perspective on the broader global history of a period of immense transformation in British history. Some of these children found their way to the far-flung corners of Britain's empire, spreading the influence of the nation overseas. Yet, countless others toiled within the confines of the inner empire, laboring in the cotton mills and factories of northern England as the dawn of the new industrial age unfolded.

In her extensive archival research, Helen Berry has uncovered previously untold stories of these former foundlings, painting a vivid portrait of their lives and experiences. From the hardships they endured as child workers during the tumultuous upheavals of the Industrial Revolution to the small triumphs they achieved, their stories are a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

The book weaves together a rich tapestry of evidence, using a variety of sources and fragments to piece together the narratives of these forgotten children. It is a testament to the power of historical research and the importance of preserving the stories of those who have been marginalized and forgotten.

Orphans of Empire serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of our past and present, shedding light on the profound impact of social and economic systems on the lives of individuals and communities. It is a poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can endure and thrive, and that compassion and empathy can ignite change on a grand scale.

As we reflect on the history of the London Foundling Hospital and the lives of the foundlings who called it home, let us be inspired by the legacy of Captain Thomas Coram and his unwavering commitment to creating a better world for all. Let us continue to work towards a future where poverty is eradicated, and every child is given the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Weight: 386g
Dimension: 135 x 214 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198860297