By J. A. Salazar, AIT Language School
Slavery, John Lennon, Mohamed Salah, and The Titanic. You may not think they have much in common. Yet, there is one thing that connects them all. And that is the city of Liverpool.
Today, Liverpool is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, located 350km from London, in the north-west of England. It has a fascinating riverfront and some excellent sights, including the largest number of museums and galleries outside London. But what has made Liverpool the city it is today?
A Brief History
Liverpool received its charter from King John in 1207. However, it remained a fishing village for 500 years until the slave trade prompted its expansion. Slavery brought Liverpool wealth, with traders buying and selling slaves that were subsequently exported to the Caribbean and the Americas. When slavery was abolished in Britain in 1807, Liverpool continued to expand, largely because of the industrial revolution.
While most of Europe was embroiled in wars and conflicts, the British empire prospered. Liverpool became the most important shipping port in the world and Britain’s wealthiest city. Shipping companies, such as the Star Line which owned the Titanic, were based in the port of Liverpool.
Liverpool began to decline after World War 1. The demise of the British Empire saw many industries and companies disappearing. By the latter part of 20 th century, Liverpool became a byword for poverty and economic ruin. Yet the city continued to thrive culturally. The 1960s saw the birth of the Beatles—the world’s most famous musical band. And in the last fifty years, Liverpool Football Club has become one of the most successful clubs in footballing history.
Liverpool Today
Liverpool is nothing but a city of excellence. In 2008 it was named European Capital of Culture. Today it has much that visitors can do to enjoy this unique and dynamic metropolis:
- The Merseyside Maritime Museum gives visitors an opportunity to see first-hand the history of the Titanic, with models, photographs, and memorabilia that offer a unique insight into one of the most famous maritime tragedies ever.
- The Carvern Club was the home of The Beatles. Original photographs and mementos of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Star decorate the walls of this fascinating venue—an unmissable journey for fans and non-fans alike.
- The ferry across the River Mersey provides spectacular views of the city’s waterfront.
- For those who love football, a visit to Anfield, the home of Liverpool Football Club is a must.
- And for the shoppers, Bold Street is the centre for independent and creative stores. The Bohemian Quarter also has plenty of coffee shops if you want to stop and refuel.