History of Glasgow

Often considered the second city of Scotland after Edinburgh, it may be more fitting that the countrys two main cities share the title since they both have a long and continuing role in Scottish life. Glasgow has always been a major port city with strong trade and industry, but today things are turning more towards the cultural identity of this wonderful Scottish place.

The birth of a city

It is commonly accepted that Glasgow was founded in the 6th century by a Christian missionary known as St Mungo, who has come to be the towns patron saint. The site where St Mungo built Glasgows first church is now the home of the impressive 13th century Glasgow Cathedral. It wasnt until 1175 however, that the city really began its modern life when King William signed a charter making Glasgow a Burgh.

Rising importance

The city has always played a role in regional politics and has been the site of some interesting historical moments. It was here, at the top end of High Street, that William Braveheart Wallace trounced the English at the beginning of the 14th century. The citys importance as a centre of culture and learning also has a long and impressive heritage. Glasgow University, the fourth oldest in the UK, was established in 1451 shortly after the equally renowned St Andrews school. When an archbishopric was established in 1490, Glasgow was officially granted city status.

Economic powerhouse

It was as a port town that Glasgows trade economy truly began to flourish. A 1707 Treaty of Union with England paved the way for a lucrative overseas trade in such goods as tobacco, rum, sugar and cotton from the Americas. When James Watt invented his innovative steam engine in the 18th century, the city turned its focus to the textile industry by building dozens of cotton mills and kicking off its own Industrial Revolution. Glasgow went on to engage in shipbuilding, and by 1835 it was manufacturing nearly half of Britains steamships. It was during this period of economic prosperity that much of the citys grand architecture was built.

Rediscovering itself

After WWII, Glasgows population dropped dramatically as the city slumped into a period of depression and many of the residents moved to the outskirts. The old industries which had supported the citys prosperity had lost their importance, bringing high unemployment and low morale. In the 1980s, Glasgow decided to clean up the city and embark on an ambitious new agenda to reclaim its status as the Second City of Scotland. The city honed its tourism and service industries, and opened a number of impressive cultural attractions such as the Burrell Collection and Princes Square. As Scotlands second largest city, Glasgow has earned its reputation as an incredible place rich in beauty, culture and entertainment.