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On 28 August 1207, King John obtained Liverpool in exchange for other land. Five days later he issued a charter inviting men to come to Liverpool and settle here, offering burgages and much freedom and rights. His main interest in Liverpool was as a docking area and a couple of years later he commissioned a castle to be built to protect his port.
An eagle with a sprig of broom in its beak was first associated with King John in the mid 14th century but over time its appearance and meaning has changed.
In the mid 16th century, Liverpool only had 700 inhabitants after a plague threatened to wipe out the whole town.
Local laws around this time ruled that all foreign persons should be treated equally to those of the town and waites should be appointed to play musical instruments every morning and night except for Sunday.
During the 17th century civil war, several battles for the town occured and Colonel Moore and his army protected the city fiercely. Charles II ordered the destruction of the castle and took away the people's freedom and privileges.
During the reign of William III, Liverpool's population grew. Liverpool profited substantially from the thriving slave trade until it was finally abolished.
Many docks of different types and sizes were built. Sugar, tobacco, grain, cotton and livestock were traded and by the early 1800s, 40% of the world's trade was passing through Liverpool. It is a result of this that Liverpool prospered and many beautiful buildings were constructed.
Liverpool's population increased massively during the Great Famine of Ireland. Over 1 million people left Ireland and by 1852, 25% of Liverpool's population were Irish. It is believed that this Irish influence changed the local dialect and the 'scouse' accent developed.
In 1911, one of Liverpool's most famous buildings was built, The Liver Building. On top of the building sits two birds, originally modelled on King John's eagle, which have now been named the Liver birds, mythical creatures that stand proud with their chests puffed out and their wings up in defiance. One bird looks out to the sea (our prosperity) and the other looks over the city (our people). Legend has it that if they flew away the city would cease to exist.
By 1931 Liverpool's population had increased to 855, 688 but this was greatly reduced by the end of WW2. Liverpool was a key target because of its sea trade and 80 air raids were carried out, 2500 people were killed and many homes and buildings were damaged or destroyed, thankfully though the Liver birds stayed and remained in tact.
In the early 1960s, music and comedy thrived in Liverpool. Many young bands and artists emerged and with them, a distinct Mersey sound. Groups like The Beatles had a profound effect on the city and the rest of the world.
In the late 1970s, Liverpool's shipping trade had declined rapidly. Unemployment rates reached the highest in the UK as so many jobs had been centred around the docks and the port.
With many tourist attractions and festivals, mainly associated with football, music, comedy and a rich history and culture, the city's economy has recovered and is quickly growing. It's population in the last census of 2001 was recorded as 439,476.
Recently awarded the European Capital of Culture award for 2008, Liverpool is gearing up for festivals and parties. Even Dickie Lewis is dressed for the occasion.
And with Liverpool's 800th birthday coming up and plenty of celebrations planned, Liverpool is a very exciting place to be at the moment.
