Expansion Beyond the Walls
The population growth fueled a physical expansion of London beyond the old city walls.
- Suburbs and New Districts: Areas like Southwark and Westminster grew, incorporating inns, theaters, and markets.
- Public Buildings and Palaces: The construction of royal palaces like Hampton Court and the refurbishment of the Tower of London reinforced royal authority.
Markets, Inns, and Trade Hubs
- Cheapside: The city’s commercial heart, a bustling market street selling everything from cloth to food.
- The Royal Exchange (opened 1571): Founded by Sir Thomas Gresham, it became a center for commerce and finance, a precursor to the London Stock Exchange.
- Dockyards and Warehouses: Essential for handling the volume of imported and exported goods.
Politics, Power, and Patronage
The Crown’s Role in London’s Growth
- Royal Patronage: Monarchs like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I invested heavily in London’s infrastructure and courtly life.
- Control and Regulation: The city’s governance involved balancing the power of the Crown, the Lord Mayor, and powerful merchant guilds.
Guilds and Livery Companies
- Economic Control: Guilds regulated trade, quality, and apprenticeships, wielding significant political power.
- Social Networks: These companies fostered community ties and contributed to charity and public works.
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