Manchester was the first industrial city and arguably the first modern city. During the industrial revolution it became the centre of the world's trade in cotton goods. With the history of the city and numerous insights and unexpected stories, this book is essential for an understanding of what Manchester has been and what it can become.

A visually stunning and affordable book on Manchester, the first industrial city and arguably the first modern city. Yet, as the industrial base on which the city had depended for two centuries collapsed, the city had to take a new direction. Written by leading experts with numerous insights and unexpected stories, this profusely illustrated book on the history of Manchester is essential for an understanding of what Manchester has been and what it can become.