The River Thames has been integral to the prosperity of London since Roman times Explorers sailed away on voyages of discovery to distant lands Colonies were established & a great empire grew Funding their ships & cargoes helped make the City of London into the world's leading financial centre In the 19th century a vast network of docks was created for ever-larger ships behind high prison-like walls that kept them secret from all those who did not toil within Sail made way for steam as goods were dispatched to every corner of the world In the 19th century London was the world's greatest port city In the Second World War the Port of London became Hitler's prime target It paid a heavy price but soon recovered Yet by the end of the 20th century the docks had been transformed into Docklands a new financial centre The History of the Port of London A Vast Emporium of Nations is the fascinating story of the rise & fall & revival of the commercial river The only book to tell the whole story & bring it right up to date it charts the foundation growth & evolution of the port & explains why for centuries it has been so important to Britain's prosperity This book will appeal to those interested in London's history maritime & industrial heritage the Docklands & East End of London & the River Thames