Coal and Tobacco: The Lowthers and the Economic Development of West Cumberland, 1660-1760

by J. V. Beckett

Overview

Economic historians have long appreciated the important role of the Lowther family in the developing Whitehaven from a tiny fishing village into a flourishing industrial centre. In Coal and Tobacco, Dr Beckett has attempted, by analysing the west Cumberland economy, and the Lowther's entrepreneurial role, to reveal the vital importance of the coal industry. Since much of the coal was sold in Ireland, west Cumberland moved into a relationship with Dublin which was similar to, albeit on a smaller scale than, the more famous link between Tyneside and London. The coal trade provided the vital economic underpinning, but geographical considerations help to explain Whitehaven's other trading interests. Dr Beckett's major study is based on the Lowther papers, and reveals the crucial family involvement in these events. This book documents Lowther's story: how close he came to success, why he failed, and the impact of his ambitions on west Cumberland.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521090162
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	11/20/2008
Pages:	296
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.90(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; Introduction; 1. The Lowthers: land owning-entrepreneurs; 2. Coal: Monopoly and competition; 3. Coal: the structure of trade and industry; 4. The expansion of trade; 5. The development of industry; 6. Communications; 7. Creating new towns: Urban growth; Conclusion; Appendices; Notes; Bibliography; Index.