After the trauma of the Blitz and wartime restrictions, London embraced the arrival of a new decade. Austerity was slow to loosen its grip, but the Festival of Britain pointed a tentative way forward. Two years later saw the birth of a new Elizabethan era that was greeted with an almost naive enthusiasm. This was a time when class still dominated and divided. Despite the introduction of the welfare state, grinding poverty still existed. The rich were also suffering under a barrage of punitive taxation. The artistic community set out to challenge the bounds of perceived decency. As always, London spearheaded change. To a background of grisly murders and organised crime, often shrouded in fog, London lurched into the unknown. It was loud, brash and chaotic, yet also sophisticated. A city of opportunity and dangerous temptation, it set the agenda for others to follow. Huge success and degrading humiliation were of passing interest only as the world's greatest city hurled itself restlessly forward seeking its next distraction.

About the Author
Mike Hutton wrote several novels before concentrating on social history. His previous books by Amberley include 'Life in 1940s London', 'Life in 1950's London' and 'The Story of Soho'. His aim is to bring a wider audience to our recent history by the range of subject matter he covers in a style that is easy to read yet informative. He has keen interest in early 20th century British art and was for some years a part owner in a number of race horses. He has also spent many years researching archives concerning Britain after the First World War. He lives with his wife in rural Northamptonshire.


Book Information
ISBN 9781445649658
Author Mike Hutton
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Amberley Publishing
Publisher Amberley Publishing
Weight(grams) 204g