From Roman times to the twenty-first century, Londoners and visitors to the city have witnessed the extraordinary events and everyday life and character of this unique and influential city--from politics, culture, sports, religion, and reportage. Bringing to vivid life the human trial of the capital, the book includes the rise and fall of the world-spanning empire, as well as the everyday life of the city. Here, the life of the capital is told, for the first time, by first-hand witnesses. Packed with personality and character, this book is a must for anyone interested in London as well as a wonderful story of a world city.