Useful Knowledge of William Hutton - Culture and Industry in Eighteenth-Century Birmingham Whyman Susan E. Independent Historian formerly Princeton UniversityPevná vazba

The Useful Knowledge of William Hutton shows the rapid rise of a self-taught workman and the growing prominence of the city of Birmingham during the two major events of the eighteenth-century--the Industrial Revolution and the Enlightenment. The book boldly claims that an understanding of the Industrial Revolution requires engagement with the figure of the rough diamond, a person of worth and character, but lacking in manners, education, and refinement. Hutton achieved wealth, land, status, and literary fame, but later became a victim of violent riots.

The book also contends that the rise of Birmingham cannot be understood without accepting that its vibrant cultural life was a crucial factor that spurred economic growth. A cast of unpolished entrepreneurs is brought to life as they drive economic and social change, and improve their towns and themselves. Readers are plunged