London Had Its Own 'Underground' Railroad for Escaping Slaves
In the 18th and 19th centuries, London played a key role in the abolitionist movement and the fight against the transatlantic slave trade. While the British Empire had outlawed the slave trade in 1807, London became a sanctuary for runaway slaves, especially from the United States. Abolitionist groups, such as the Anti-Slavery Society, provided safe houses and support networks for fugitives seeking freedom. The city’s proximity to the sea allowed many to escape to freedom in the Caribbean or to other parts of Europe.
The Thames Used to Be a Major Highway
The River Thames has always been a vital part of London's history, but during the medieval and early modern periods, it served as the city’s primary transportation route. Before the construction of roads and bridges, goods were transported up and down the river on boats. The Thames was lined with docks and warehouses, and it wasn't uncommon to see large merchant ships floating right past the Tower of London or St. Paul’s Cathedral. London Bridge, built by the Romans, was the only bridge over the Thames for many centuries.
The Origins of the London Underground
The world’s first underground railway system, the London Underground, opened in 1863. Initially known as the "Metropolitan Railway," it was created to relieve the growing traffic congestion on London’s streets. The first line, which ran between Paddington and Farringdon, was an instant success. The Underground, often referred to as "The Tube" due to its round tunnels, has since expanded into one of the busiest transit systems in the world, serving millions of passengers each day. shutdown123