Exam Study Notes

London Underground Railway Development

Early Problems & Solutions

• London's population boom in the early 1800s led to severe congestion.

• Overground railway expansion exacerbated the problem.

• Charles Pearson proposed an underground railway to link stations and relocate slum residents to suburbs.

• The Metropolitan Railway Company was formed in 1854 to construct a line from Paddington to Farringdon Street.

• Challenges included funding and public skepticism about tunnel safety.

Construction & Initial Operation

• The route minimized demolition by running beneath main roads.

• The 'cut and cover' technique was used: a trench was dug, supported, and then covered with a brick arch and soil.

• The Metropolitan line opened in 1863, carrying almost 40,000 passengers on its first day.

• Extensions were added, but congestion persisted due to the circuitous routes.

Deep-Level Tunnels & Electrification

• Deep-level tunnels were necessary for crossing the city center, but steam locomotives were unsuitable.

• The development of electric motors enabled the first deep-level electric railway, the City & South London, in 1890.

• The Central London Railway ('Tuppenny Tube') began operation in 1900 with new electric locomotives.

• By 1907, the core of today’s Underground system was established.

Stadiums: Past, Present, and Future

Historical Versatility of Stadiums

• Ancient stadiums were central to urban life, serving various purposes beyond sports.

• The amphitheater of Arles transformed from a Roman arena into a fortress, village, and back to an arena.

• Verona's arena is now a prime site for opera due to its acoustics.

• Lucca's amphitheater became a market square integrated with shops and residences.

Modern Stadiums and Their Evolution

• 20th-century stadiums, built with steel and concrete, became mono-functional and suburban.

• Modern architects aim to integrate stadiums into urban environments as hubs and power plants.

• Mixed-use developments with hotels, retail, and green spaces enhance compactness and multi-functionality.

Stadiums as Power Plants

• Stadium canopies are ideal for photovoltaic panels and micro wind turbines.

• Freiburg Mage Solar Stadium, Amsterdam Arena, and Kaohsiung Stadium exemplify this trend.

• Kaohsiung Stadium's panels produce 1.14 GWh annually, reducing CO2 emissions and supplying the surrounding area.

• Modern stadiums integrate multiple functions, contributing to a sustainable future.

To Catch a King: The Hunt for Charles II

Summary of Charles II's Escape

• Following his father's execution, Charles II allied with the Scots, accepting Presbyterianism to become King of Scots.

• After defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651, Charles II was subject to a national manhunt.

• He evaded capture for six weeks before seeking refuge in France.

• Later, Charles II recounted his experiences to Samuel Pepys, aiming to preserve the story.

Key Aspects Highlighted by Spencer

• Spencer's book uses Charles II's narrative and those of his supporters.

• Details include cutting his hair, dyeing his skin, and hiding in an oak tree.

• Despite initial rejection by the English, Charles II memorialized his escape through art and chivalry.

Reviewer's Assessment

• Spencer's writing is engaging and explores the background of the story.

• The book examines whether Charles II's experiences influenced his later reign.

• The reviewer notes some shortcomings in the book's depiction of Charles II's later years but recommends it overall.