In "Lives of Famous London Beggars," John Thomas Smith intricately chronicles the lives and stories of notable beggars in 18th-century London. Through a blend of vivid anecdotes, social commentary, and engaging prose, Smith reveals the socio-economic conditions that led to the proliferation of begging during this era. His detailed character sketches highlight not only the struggles of these individuals but also the societal perceptions and hierarchies surrounding poverty. Smith's literary ...

Delve into the profound and multifaceted world of societal imperfections with 'A Comprehensive Compendium of 42 Books on Social Pathology.' This anthology presents a panoramic exploration of social issues, ranging from urban poverty and criminality to behavioral psychology and societal reform. The collection encompasses a variety of literary styles, including investigative narratives, philosophical musings, and reformist essays, each contributing a unique lens to the intricate tapestry of ...

In "A Book for a Rainy Day; or, Recollections of the Events of the Years 1766-1833," John Thomas Smith crafts a vivid tapestry of personal recollections and historical narratives that resonate with the tumultuous events of his time. Written in an engaging, conversational style, Smith's memoir weaves together anecdotes and reflections with broader social and cultural commentary, offering a unique lens through which to view late 18th and early 19th-century Britain. His vivid descriptions and...

In "The Cries of London," John Thomas Smith masterfully captures the vibrant tapestry of 19th-century London life through the compelling medium of street cries. This richly illustrated work combines a unique blend of socio-cultural commentary and artistic representation, presenting the sounds and sights of the city'Äôs marketplaces and streets. Smith employs a vivid literary style, interweaving anecdotes and vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the bustling atmosphere of London'Äô...

The Library of Alexandria is an independent small business publishing house. We specialize in bringing back to live rare, historical and ancient Books. This includes manuscripts such as: classical fiction, philosophy, science, Religion, folklore, mythology, history, literature, politics and sacred texts, in addition to Secret and esoteric subjects, such as: occult, freemasonry, alchemy, hermetic, shamanism and ancient knowledge. Our Books are available in digital format. We have approximat...

This multigenerational memoir sketches the lives of three generations of the author’s family that were involved with some of the most profound issues of the twentieth century. Smith’s paternal grandfather was present at the creation of General Motors Corporation and served as its Vice President and General Counsel. His maternal grandfather, William G. Maguire, was an entrepreneur and natural gas pipeline pioneer with a visionary grasp of natural gas’s significance in the twentieth century ...

In "The Social History of Smoking," George Latimer Apperson explores the multifaceted cultural, social, and economic implications of smoking throughout history. Through a meticulously researched narrative, Apperson delves into the evolution of smoking practices from ancient civilizations to modern societies, employing a rich literary style that marries engaging prose with scholarly rigor. The book not only provides a chronicle of smoking but also contextualizes its impact on society, polit...

Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

"A Walk from London to Fulham" by Thomas Crofton Croker is a delightful exploration of the journey from the bustling heart of London to the serene suburb of Fulham. Croker's vivid descriptions capture the essence of the landscapes, architecture, and the vibrant life along the route. His keen observations and engaging narrative style invite readers to experience the sights and sounds of 19th-century London, making it a charming read for those interested in travel literature and the historic...

This edition features a linked Table of Contents and IndexCONTENTS (abridged list)CHAPTER I.Origin of Fairs—Charter Fairs at Winchester and Chester—Croydon Fairs—Fairs in the Metropolis—Origin of Bartholomew Fair—Disputes between the Priors and the Corporation—The Westminster Fairs—Southwark Fair—Stepney Fair—Ceremonies observed in opening Fairs—Walking the Fair at Wolverhampton—The Key of the Fair at Croydon—Proclamation of Bartholomew Fair...CHAPTER XI...

In "The Fleet: Its Rivers, Prison, and Marriages," John Ashton intricately examines the historical and social implications of one of London's lesser-known waterways, the Fleet River. Ashton employs a rich narrative style, weaving together vivid descriptions and meticulous research to explore the river's dark past, particularly its notorious English Debtors' prison and the unconventional marriages that occurred in its vicinity. This book is firmly rooted in the Victorian era, drawing on ext...

Hogarth is essentially English—brave, straight-forward, manly; never pandering to fashion or fancy. When he had to deal with sin and misery, he met them full in the face, bating no whit of their repulsiveness; and in all his works, wherever a moral is to be drawn, it is a noble and a healthy one. In his merry moods he is irresistibly comic; when he stands forward as a censor of morals, he is terrible in his truth; when he creates a character, it is always human and complete,—a true reflex ...