In the footsteps of London's rebels

What is the course about?

The course conveys this exciting history against the backdrop of 19th century and early 20th century London through a series of walking tours to sites of agitation and protest. These tours will include visits to buildings and institutions connected with this history.

What will we cover?

We will learn about inspirational individuals and movements that fought for radical change in the workplace, in their communities, and in the political sphere: from Chartists, suffragettes and striking matchgirls, to anarchists, conscientious objectors and anti-fascists. We will also find out what these social movements were demanding and where and how they campaigned to bring about changes in London.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

show you understand the challenges ordinary people faced in London during this period
identify the campaigns that sought to address these challenges
list key individuals that supported these campaigns.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

There are no particular skills needed, just an interest in learning about London’s social and political history and an enthusiasm for discovering and imagining the places where this history happened. You will need to be able to undertake a walking tour of up to 2 hours at a moderate pace, with several stopping points. Some of the walking tours will include an indoor visit so the actual walking will be less than two hours in these sessions .

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

There will be an initial lecture/workshop to set the background scene for the period we will be studying, and the places where we will be walking. This will be followed by a series of walking tours focusing on specific issues, individuals and campaigns. On each tour you will receive an information handout summarising key points. Students will be encouraged to ask questions on the walks and raise discussion points. The final session on zoom will draw together the threads from the different walks to consolidate knowledge of protest movements in the capital and assess their successes and failures. No work is required outside of class although you will be directed to additional reading that you may wish to undertake.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional costs. All visits are free. You will need to wear comfortable walking shoes, appropriate clothing for the likely temperature outdoors, an umbrella for days when the weather is less predictable and a bottle of water for refreshment. You may wish to bring a pen and notebook to take your own notes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Any of the weekday or weekend London Walks courses starting in January. Please see the City Lit website.
In the summer David Rosenberg delivers another series of London walks- From the 1880s to the 1930s: how the East End was born (HLW32).