Liverpool is now 800 years old!
Why am I writing about Liverpool? Why not? For one thing, I always did like the name, and today is the city’s birthday after all!
Liverpool was established in 1207 by King John. Yes, that is the very same one who features in Robin Hood! In history, he was called Lackland, for his ability to give away territory almost faster than he could get his army to retreat, as well as for other lacks, which we shall not discuss here.
Anyway, Liverpool began, but till the 16th century, it was no more than a village, with only about 500 living there. But the dawn of the industrial revolution saw a turnaround in its fortunes. It soon became a port town, and was one of the hubs of the industrial revolution, facing towards the emerging America’s with its western facing port. At the same time, the rivalry with its neighbouring town of Manchester was begun, with Manchester as the production centre for textiles, while Liverpool was the transport hub of The industry.
Of course, all good things end, and Liverpool entered hard times since the 1930’s. But it has always been a home for culture. And today, Liverpool is best known for its greatest export: The Beatles. Scowsers all, they were icons, and even today Liverpool gets tonnes of Beatle tourists. They also had the Merseyside poets and galleries and the football club. But people will still remember them for the Beatles. And for good reason too.
Talking of football clubs, the city has two. Everton FC. And of course, the most successful team of them all, Liverpool FC. But unlike Manchester United and Manchester City (just to name one) the rivalry between the two teams has not been filled with acrimony!
So, here is to Liverpool. 800 and still rolling!
