It was during the innovative and swiftly developing period of the 19th century that Glasgow became known as the Second City of the Empire.
Technology and manufacturing
As manufacturing and industry were expanding, the population
rose in response to the need for a labour force. From distilling to
soap, glass to textiles, Glasgow's industry grew during the first
half of the 19th century. Much of the city's wealth was
connected with cotton, as it provided over one third of the
workforce jobs. The focus of the commerce shifted by the 1840's to
iron, engineering and perhaps most famously shipbuilding. Glasgow's
shipyards were the birthplace of over one fifth of the world's
supply of ships from the end of the nineteenth century until the
First World War. They gave rise to such names as Robert
Napier, Fairfield Shipyards in Govan,
and John Brown's Shipyard in
Clydebank.
Cultural and social
With immigrants from the Highlands, Ireland, Italy, Eastern
Europe, and an influx of Jews, Glasgow's diversity and culture was
full of life. Its art, theatres, and music all boasted innovation
and worldwide respect. Glasgow had become a leader in the British
Empire's cultural growth. Its impressive buildings reflected this
life and growth in their stately quality. The Kelvingrove Art
Gallery, Gilbert Scott's spire, the University of Glasgow and the
Mitchell Library are all examples of the blending and development
of culture and architecture. At, Glasgow Green,one of the most ancient
parks in Scotland, the People's Palace and
Winter Gardens was opened in 1898, providing leisure
facilities for local people. A large number of other
parks were created in the city during the 19th century. The
government and management of the city claimed to be one of the
best, providing telephone, water and gas supplies to its
residents. It was even home to two Great Exhibitions in 1888
and 1901. By the end of the century, the city's government provided
most of the public amenities. There had been a shifted towards
socialism, and Glasgow even had its first Labour MP.
More on the history of the River Clyde (Back to
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