
Leeds History
Leeds is a country with a very affluent cultural heritage and history. The very name “ Leeds ” came from a word of Celtic origin –namely ”Loidis”.
During the Middle Ages Leeds was an agricultural marketplace. By the mid 18 th century the population rose drastically due to the Industrial revolution. The Liverpool Canal and the railway accelerated Leeds ' industrial development. It was established as a city in 1893. During the Industrial Revolution it was the manufacturer of machinery, spinning tools, gears, steam engines, leather, textiles and chemicals that developed. The economy and status of Leeds began to transform by the establishment of great universities such as the University of Leeds , Leeds Trinity & All Saints and Leeds Metropolitan University in the 20 th century. Moreover this era also saw a great advancement in the medical sector. Secondary industries that had boomed in the 19 th century faced a decline in the post World War II. During 1971-1981 the city lost one- third of its manufacturing jobs. 10 years later, 64000 workers were given jobs in manufacturing. However a few engineering firms are still left. Alloys, pipelines, turbine blades used by the oil industry, hospital and surgical equipment, motor radiators and pumps- all these were the biggest firms.
The Urban Development Corporation took care of a few perished industrial areas that were falling down in the 1980s. The plan was to contemplate and accelerate investments made by the private sectors to improve the condition.
Leeds is one of the leading cities of West Yorkshire today.
Leeds History