Violent London - Clive Bloom

This is a hefty but worthwhile book. Sub-titled '2000 Years of Riots, Rebels and Revolts', it goes through the history of London describing the notable acts of mob violence and terrorism that have periodically blighted the place. (As capital, seat of government and largest city, London seems to have had more than its fair share of such things.) Its 550 pages take us from Boudicca's complete destruction of the Roman city right up to recent May Day riots and countryside alliance marches. The first half of the book is more or less chronological, starting with Boudicca, taking in the Peasants' Revolt, Catholic plots against Elizabeth I, the Gunpowder ...