Event Type: Branch

Takes Place: 17th October 2026

Time: 11am

Venue: National Waterfront Museum, Swansea

Description: Originating as a Roman outpost, Manchester evolved from a modest medieval market town into the world's first industrial city, driven by rapid expansion in textile manufacturing and population growth during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Known variously as ‘Shock City’ and (at its peak) ‘Cottonopolis’, Manchester played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. Despite its declining industrial importance in the mid twentieth century, the city - renowned for its radical politics, scientific achievement and cultural influence - has been rejuvenated through large-scale redevelopment following the 1996 IRA bombing. Today, Manchester thrives as a modern, forward-looking, diverse post-industrial and global city and a dynamic economic hub.

How to book: No booking required

Price: Free

Email: historyliz1565@yahoo.com

Organiser: Swansea Branch

Lecturer: Jeff Childs

Comments: Jeff Childs was born in Fforest, Pontarddulais but grew up in Pontardawe. He is a Fellow of the Historical Association Swansea Branch and a member of many other historical organisations. He is also a former chair and president of the South Wales Record So

Region: Wales

Branch: Swansea