London underwent a significant transformation in the 17th century. This period witnessed several events that shaped the city’s political, cultural, and economic landscape. Here’s a look at some of the most notable occurrences in London during the 17th century.
The Great Fire of London
In 1666, London experienced one of its most significant disasters – The Great Fire of London. The fire started in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread to other parts of the city.
It destroyed over 10,000 buildings, including St Paul’s Cathedral, and left thousands homeless. The fire was eventually extinguished after four days by creating firebreaks using gunpowder and demolishing buildings.
The Plague
The bubonic plague swept through London in 1665 and claimed an estimated 100,000 lives – almost a quarter of the city’s population at that time. To control the spread of the disease, authorities imposed strict measures such as quarantining infected individuals and burning infected clothing.
The Restoration
In 1660, Charles II was crowned as King marking the end of Oliver Cromwell’s puritan government which had ruled England for over a decade. This ushered in a new era known as The Restoration. During this period, London saw an explosion of arts and culture with theater productions becoming popular among the citizens.
Scientific Revolution
The scientific revolution that began in Europe during this time also had an impact on London’s intellectual scene. Several prominent scientists such as Robert Hooke and Christopher Wren lived in London, contributing to new discoveries in physics, astronomy and medicine.
Conclusion
The 17th century was a pivotal era for London with significant events shaping its history for years to come. From natural disasters to cultural revolutions to scientific advancements – all these occurrences have contributed to making London the city that we know and love today.
- The Great Fire of London – A devastating fire that destroyed over 10,000 buildings in the city.
- The Plague – A deadly disease that claimed an estimated 100,000 lives.
- The Restoration – The end of Oliver Cromwell’s puritan government and the beginning of a new era under King Charles II.
- Scientific Revolution – London played a significant role in the scientific discoveries of this period with scientists like Robert Hooke and Christopher Wren residing in the city.
Sources:
- “The Great Fire of London.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, LLC., 2021, www.history.com/topics/great-fire-of-london.
- “Bubonic Plague: The Great Plague Pandemic.com/topics/middle-ages/bubonic-plague.
- “Restoration (1660).”
Encyclopedia Britannica Online, Encyclopedia Britannica Inc., www.britannica.com/event/Restoration-English-history-1660.
- “17th Century Science.” BBC Bitesize, BBC Studios Learning Ltd., 2014-2021, www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/ztyr9j6/articles/z3nfw6f.
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