Citizen of London: Richard Whittington - The Boy Who Would Be Mayor

This book brings to life the extraordinary story of Richard Whittington, from his arrival in London as a young boy to his death in 1423, against a backdrop of plague, political instability and war; turbulence between Crown, City and Commons; and the financial demands of three kings, to whom Whittington was mercer, lender and fixer.

Whittington was a man determined to follow his own path, in life and in death, and a significant figure in London's ceaseless development. As an entrepreneur, common councillor, Collector of the Wool Custom, King's Council member and four-time mayor, Whittington figured prominently in the rise of the capital's merchant class and powerful livery Companies. A leading voice for social reform, a bulwark against corruption and a figure of largesse, he contributed to Henry V's victory at Agincourt and even oversaw building works at Westminster Abbey. In London, Whittington found his 'second' family: a mentor in Sir Ivo Fitzwarin, and a wife and inspiration in Fitzwarin's daughter Alice.

Since the mid-1600s, millions have enjoyed Dick Whittington pantomimes. There is a grain of truth in them, but the real story is far more compelling. Though minus that sadly mythical cat.

Author: Michael McCarthy
Publisher: Hurst & Co.
Published: 12/15/2022
Pages: 424
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.96lbs
Size: 9.33h x 6.48w x 1.64d
ISBN13: 9781787387911
ISBN10: 1787387917
BISAC Categories:
- History | Europe | Great Britain | Norman Conquest to Late Medieval (1
- Biography & Autobiography | Presidents & Heads of State

About the Author

Michael McCarthy PhD lectured in politics before a career in development and regeneration of rural economies and historic estates. His books include Campaigning for the Poor; The New Politics of Welfare; and A History of Their Making. Formerly visiting professor at Bournemouth University, he has written for Political Quarterly.