Crime Scene London (Paperback)

Mike Hutton

ISBN 10: 1399039474 / ISBN 13: 9781399039475

Published by Pen & Sword Books Ltd, Barnsley, 2025

About this Item

Paperback. London has a history that emerges from the mist of time some 1500 years ago and is one that evolves yet never ends. It has always been a breeding ground for crime as people from around the world are drawn by its numerous attractions and opportunities. Each generation has produced its own colourful cast of robbers, murderers and fraudsters. Much of the crime was prompted by poverty and foul living conditions, but the main driver has always been the desire or need for money by whatever means and the risks involved. Until the eighteenth century this often involved a trip to perform 'the Tyburn jig' in front of a baying crowd of thousands. For a time Londoners staggered around in a gin-induced haze. Mothers often abandoned or even sold their children, just for a chance to block out the horrors of a seething London. The lanes and alleys around Covent Garden were lined with prostitutes, many still children. Famous beauties were kept by aristocrats and royalty and referred to as courtesans, although in many cases the dividing line between them and their less fortunate sisters lining the streets was thin indeed. The ending of the Great War saw the appearance of drugs, although at this stage they were mainly confined to the rich and influential as London entered the 'jazz age'. The second world war and the Blitz was not all about the spirit and bravery of Londoners, as gangs plundered wrecked houses and even stole from corpses. After the war the likes of the violent Jack Spot and Billy Hill were superseded by the Kray twins and the sadistic Richardson brothers, as they fought for control of London's drinking clubs. A little light relief was offered throughout the years by a succession of sexual scandals. Those particularly welcome involved senior politicians. A heady brew indeed covering centuries of crimes and indiscretions brought together this very readable account by author and social historian Mike Hutton. AUTHOR: Mike Hutton is a social historian and novelist. His particular emphasis on the first half of the 20th century reflects a period of unprecedented change. His interests include British art and a wide range of sports. He lives with his wife in the heart of rural England. 32 b/w illustrations Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Seller Inventory # 9781399039475

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Crime Scene London (Paperback)
• Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd, Barnsley
• Publication Date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1399039474
• ISBN 13: 9781399039475
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: new

About this title

Synopsis

Chronicles London’s 1500-year history of crime, from poverty-driven acts to notorious figures and scandals shaping the city’s dark legacy.

London has a history that emerges from the mist of time some 1500 years ago and is one that evolves yet never ends. It has always been a breeding ground for crime as people from around the world are drawn by its numerous attractions and opportunities. Each generation has produced its own colourful cast of robbers, murderers and fraudsters. Much of the crime was prompted by poverty and foul living conditions, but the main driver has always been the desire or need for money by whatever means and the risks involved. Until the eighteenth century this often involved a trip to perform ‘the Tyburn jig’ in front of a baying crowd of thousands.

For a time Londoners staggered around in a gin-induced haze. Mothers often abandoned or even sold their children, just for a chance to block out the horrors of a seething London. The lanes and alleys around Covent Garden were lined with prostitutes, many still children. Famous beauties were kept by aristocrats and royalty and referred to as courtesans, although in many cases the dividing line between them and their less fortunate sisters lining the streets was thin indeed.

The ending of the Great War saw the appearance of drugs, although at this stage they were mainly confined to the rich and influential as London entered the ‘jazz age’. The second world war and the Blitz was not all about the spirit and bravery of Londoners, as gangs plundered wrecked houses and even stole from corpses. After the war the likes of the violent Jack Spot and Billy Hill were superseded by the Kray twins and the sadistic Richardson brothers, as they fought for control of London’s drinking clubs. A little light relief was offered throughout the years by a succession of sexual scandals. Those particularly welcome involved senior politicians.

A heady brew indeed covering centuries of crimes and indiscretions brought together this very readable account by author and social historian Mike Hutton.

About the Author

Mike Hutton is a social historian and novelist. His particular emphasis on the first half of the 20th century reflects a period of unprecedented change. His interests include British art and a wide range of sports. He lives with his wife in the heart of rural England.