The Great Fire of London: Famous People and Great Events

On September 2, 1666, a devastating fire broke out in London, England. For four days and nights, the inferno raged, consuming over 13,200 homes and businesses, leaving 70,000 people homeless. It was the most catastrophic event in London's history.

The Great Fire of London (Famous People, Great Events Book 7)

by CGP Books

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2414 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	40 pages
Hardcover	:	354 pages
Item Weight	:	1.33 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 1.08 x 9 inches

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But amidst the devastation, many inspiring individuals and remarkable events emerged that shaped the legacy of this historic disaster. Here are some of the most famous people and great events associated with the Great Fire of London:

Thomas Farriner, the Baker Who Started the Fire

The fire originated in the bakery of Thomas Farriner, a baker who lived in Pudding Lane. According to legend, Farriner left his ovens burning overnight, and a spark from the embers ignited the surrounding wooden structures.

Farriner's negligence was blamed for the fire, and he was arrested and imprisoned. However, he was later released after a royal pardon.

Samuel Pepys, the Diarist Who Documented the Fire

One of the most vivid accounts of the Great Fire of London comes from the diary of Samuel Pepys, a government official who lived in the city. Pepys meticulously recorded his experiences during the fire, providing invaluable insights into the event.

In his diary, Pepys described the terrifying spread of the fire, the chaos and panic of the residents, and the efforts to fight the blaze. His writings have become an essential historical source for understanding the Great Fire of London.

Bartholomew Lane and Pudding Lane

Bartholomew Lane and Pudding Lane were two of the most heavily affected areas by the Great Fire. Bartholomew Lane was a narrow street lined with wooden-frame buildings, while Pudding Lane was home to numerous bakeries and other businesses.

The fire began in Pudding Lane and quickly spread to Bartholomew Lane, where it engulfed the surrounding buildings. The intense heat and flames consumed everything in their path, leaving behind only rubble and ash.

London Bridge

London Bridge served as a temporary refugee camp for many people who were displaced by the fire. Thousands of homeless Londoners sought shelter on the bridge, where they could be safe from the flames.

However, the congestion on London Bridge also posed a danger. As the number of people increased, conditions became unsanitary, and diseases began to spread. The authorities eventually had to clear the bridge of refugees to prevent further outbreaks.

John Evelyn, the Author Who Proposed a New City

John Evelyn was a prominent writer and government official who witnessed the Great Fire of London firsthand. In the aftermath of the disaster, he wrote a proposal for rebuilding the city.

Evelyn's plan called for wide avenues, open spaces, and fireproof buildings. He also suggested that the city be moved further away from the River Thames to reduce the risk of future flooding. Evelyn's proposals were not implemented at the time, but they influenced later efforts to rebuild London.

King Charles II, the Monarch Who Led the Relief Effort

King Charles II was on holiday in Oxford when the Great Fire of London broke out. He immediately returned to the city and took charge of the relief effort.

Charles II organized the firefighting effort, provided food and shelter for the homeless, and established a commission to investigate the cause of the fire. His leadership helped to restore order and stability during a time of great crisis.

Christopher Wren, the Architect Who Rebuilt London

After the fire, the English government commissioned renowned architect Christopher Wren to rebuild London. Wren designed over 50 new churches for the city, including the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral.

Wren's buildings were constructed in a classical style and featured innovative fire prevention measures. His work helped to create a more modern and resilient London.

The Monument to the Great Fire of London

In 1671, the Monument to the Great Fire of London was erected in commemoration of the disaster. This 202-foot-tall column is located on Fish Street Hill, near where the fire is believed to have started.

The Monument is inscribed with a Latin inscription that describes the fire and its aftermath. It is one of London's most famous landmarks and a poignant reminder of the city's resilience and ability to rebuild.

The Great Fire of London was a devastating event that reshaped the city forever. But amidst the destruction, many inspiring individuals and remarkable events emerged that left a lasting legacy.

From Thomas Farriner, the baker who started the fire, to Samuel Pepys, the diarist who documented the event, to Christopher Wren, the architect who rebuilt London, the Great Fire of London is a story of both tragedy and triumph. It is a reminder of the resilience and determination of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The Great Fire of London (Famous People, Great Events Book 7)

by CGP Books

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2414 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	40 pages
Hardcover	:	354 pages
Item Weight	:	1.33 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 1.08 x 9 inches

FREE