History of Glasgow

The area of Glasgow has long been used for settlement due to the River Clyde providing a natural area for fishing. The Romans later settled in the area, however Glasgow proper was not founded until the 6th century by Saint Mungo when he established a church and ecclesiastical community in and around what is now Glasgow Cathedral.

Glasgow grew over the following centuries, being granted the status of a city, with its cathedral and the founding of the University of Glasgow providing religious and educational status. It was not until the 16th century that Glasgow became prominent in world affairs. The city became a hub of trade to the Americas, especially in the movement of tobacco, cotton and sugar. The industries of Scotland produced textiles, coal and steel, which were exported. Shipbuilding became a major industry on the Clyde, building many famous ships. By the end of the 19th century the city was known as the “Second City of the Empire” and was producing most of the ships and trains in the world. During this period, the construction of many of the city’s architectural masterpieces and grandest civic projects were being funded by its wealth.

The 20th century showed a great decline in the city’s fortunes, especially with two World Wars and the Great Depression. The city’s industries became uncompetitive, leading to high unemployment, urban decay and poor health for the city’s inhabitants.

However, by the end of the century there had been a significant resurgence in Glasgow’s economic fortunes, with financial companies moving to the city, as well an increase in tourism. The latter due to the legacy of the city’s status as European City of Culture in 1990, and the product of its thriving artistic community. The regeneration of inner-city areas has led to people moving back to living in the centre of Glasgow, although some areas of the city remain amongst the most deprived in the UK.