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The mid-19th century in Britain was a period of rapid urban growth and industrialisation. Bristol’s population had doubled since 1800 and was to more than double again by 1900. Peter Malpass (Emeritus Professor Of Housing And Urban Studies At UWE) asks who in Bristol was managing the consequences of growth and change on such an unprecedented scale? For centuries Bristol was governed by a self-perpetuating and unelected Corporation, dominated by the richest merchants and manufacturers. Then in 1835 a new, democratically elected council was created. But did it make any difference or did power remain with the wealthy elite? Did these people (the Willses, Frys, Robinsons and so on) seek political power as members of the council? The Conservatives held a majority of council seats throughout the period, but did that mean the Liberals had no influence on decisions? Or did the real power lie with long-serving paid officials, men such as David Davies, the medical officer of health for twenty one years, and Frederick Ashmead, surveyor and city engineer who worked for the council for more than forty years?
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Nissen Hut, Bristol, United Kingdom
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