The prehistory and early history of Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Avon, and the city of Bristol.

The prehistory and early history of Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Avon, and the city of Bristol.

Wessex -- the ancient counties of Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Berkshire -- is remarkable for its economic and social cohesion as a region, and for the extraordinary wealth of its ancient remains. In this authoritative survey, Barry Cunliffe sets the great monuments and famous sites in their full cultural context. His chief concern, however, is to interpret the landscape of the region, and the people who over so many centuries created it. In his hands it becomes an archaeological artefact as eloquent as Avebury and Stonehenge themselves.

A unique and detailed history of the south-west of England written in a clear and accessible style. A wondeful resource for any local historian.

Archaeological artefact as eloquent, and as imposing in its own way, as Avebury and Stonehenge themselves.

Informative, vivid and richly illustrated, this volume explores the history of England's northern borders – the former counties of Northumberland, Cumberland, Durham, Westmorland and the Furness areas of Lancashire – across 1000 years. The book explores every aspect of this changing scene, from the towns and poor upland farms of early modern Cumbria to life in the teeming communities of late Victorian Tyneside. In their final chapters the authors review the modern decline of these traditional industries and the erosion of many of the region's historical characteristics.

A unique and detailed history of the south-west of England written in a clear and accessible style. A wondeful resource for any local historian. -- Amazon.com.