A-Z of Liverpool ─ Places-People-History

The city of Liverpool is famous throughout the world. This once-small fishing village was transformed into a mighty commercial powerhouse, seen by many as the second city of the British Empire. In 1715 Liverpool created the world's first enclosed, commercial wet dock; eventually there would be docks along 71/2 miles of the River Mersey. It rapidly grew into the greatest port and city in the entire British Empire outside London. Nevertheless, by 1980, Liverpool's population had reduced by over half; its infrastructure and economy were decaying, and its political leaders were leading the city towards complete collapse. Today, Liverpool has the fastest-growing economy in Britain and has been a European Capital of Culture and is a UNESCO World Heritage City. Well-known local author, Keith Pye, takes the reader on a fascinating A-Z tour of the city's history, exploring its nooks and crannies, and along the way relating many a tale of the most interesting people and places. Fully illustrated with photographs from the past and present, the A-Z of Liverpool will appeal to residents and visitors alike.

Ken Pye is the author of a number of books, and produced the Discover Liverpool series of DVD documentaries. He is a regular contributor to magazines, journals, newspapers, and television, and is the official local historian for Radio City in Liverpool (420,000 listeners per week = 2,500 per hour). He broadcasts on BBC Radio Merseyside (317,000 listeners per week = 1,886 per hour) on a weekly basis, and gives around ten local history lectures every month, as well as operating four tours per week for tourists. He is an Honorary Fellow of Liverpool Hope University and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. A Scouser born and bred, Ken still lives in his home town, Liverpool.