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The Underlying Current

The Underlying Current

When looking at the images of the time, it would appear that London was experiencing a great time of success and favor throughout the 18th century. The truth, however, is that only a portion of Londoners lived a lavish and flourishing lifestyle.


This image depicts the constant ebb and flow of activity that filled London's streets. It shows poorer classes laboring to support their families.

These strains caused lower social and economic classes to push against the religious and social rules of England’s existing patriarchy. As the city developed into a massive trade center and experienced a population surge, it also became home to many intellectuals, reformers and visionaries who began to challenge these outdated views. It took a great deal of effort and time to get these concerns viewed – mainly because the people with the power to inflict political and social reform were also the ones who benefited most from the existing system.