About Bristol

Country: England
Region: South West
Established: Ancient
Area: 40 sq mi (110 km2)
Population: 479,000
Largest settlement: Bristol

Bristol is bordered by Gloucestershire to the north and Somerset to the south. It is the second largest city in Southern England, after the capital London.

The name originates from the Old English word "Brycgstow," meaning "meeting place at the bridge." This refers to a bridge built across the River Avon, which served as a focal point for the early settlement. Over time, the name evolved to "Bristol". 

History:
The town of Bristol was founded on a low hill between the rivers Frome and Avon at some time before the early 11th century. Bristol was first recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle in 1051. This highlights Bristol as a trading center, particularly with Ireland, Somerset, and North Devon, exporting wool and leather. 

Prehistoric Times:
There is evidence of settlement in the Bristol area from the Palaeolithic era, with 60,000-year-old archaeological finds. Stone tools made from flint, chert, sandstone and quartzite have been found in the River Avon.

Roman Times:
During Roman times, Bristol itself wasn't a major Roman settlement, but Sea Mills, was significant. Sea Mills was the location of Abona, a Roman town and port.

Anglo Saxon Times:
During Bristol's Anglo-Saxon history it thrived as a trading centre with Ireland and south western England by exporting wool and leather. Its importance was noted in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, and Bristol even minted its own coins. 

Norman Times:
Following the 1066 conquest the town transformed from a Saxon settlement into a significant Norman stronghold and trading hub. The Normans replaced the existing defences with stone walls and built a wooden fort, which was later developed into Bristol Castle. Due to Bristol's location and flourishing trade, particularly in wool and leather, it attracted a lot of Norman attention and investment. 

Tudor and Stuart Times:
During the Tudor and Stuart periods, Bristol flourished as a major trading centre.

Bristol's wealth grew through trade with the New World, overseas business connections, and the use of credit, establishing it as an Atlantic port by 1700.

This period also saw significant growth in local industries like sugar refining, soap making, glass and pottery manufacturing. 

Industrial Revolution Times:
Bristol's Industrial Revolution era saw significant growth in industries like shipbuilding, glass, paper, soap, chemicals, alongside the rise of railway and engineering. Although they experienced substantial growth and innovation, it didn't achieve the same scale seen in other areas of Britain. 

Victorian Times:
Bristol underwent significant transformation during the Victorian era. Evolving from a historic port city into an industrial and commercial hub. The city's population grew rapidly, with advancements in industry including shipbuilding, railway construction and the establishment of key infrastructure like the Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

This period also saw a huge difference between the wealthy and working classes, with the wealthy living in grander areas, while the poorer lived in densely populated districts.