Dundee: A Short History

by Norman Watson

The story of Dundee is both fascinating and dramatic. Now, in Dundee - A Short History, Norman Watson brings to life the people and events that shaped this great city from its origins and early development, through centuries of poverty and prosperity, to the golden years of jute, jam and journalism and beyond. In this absorbing and comprehensive history meet the women who hijacked the Reformation, the sisters who terrorised Winston Churchill, the martyred George Wishart who kept only his hat, the whalerman James McIntosh who ate his to survive, and witness Shackleton's remarkable expedition to far-north Dundee and the flights of fancy surrounding Preston Watson. And as well as significant events like Monk's massacre and the Tay Bridge disaster, there are also controversial views about the very fabric of the city like what went wrong with the Waterfront, why was the old Overgate demolished and why is Tayside House still standing? Dundee - A Short History is a new and authoritative account of the remarkable story of one of our greatest cities.

Genres: Scotland

224 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2006

Reviews

[Lorraine Smith]

Norman Watson has produce a comprehensive history of Dundee. This book makes me proud to be a Dundonian. Tracing our roots of our city through the centuries, he sets out our history in a logical and entertaining read. Well researched and written

[Derek McRonald]

If you want a brief overview of the history of The City of Dundee this is perfect opener

[David Webster]

Brilliant short history of the city of Dundee from its earliest origins. I haven't read many books about the city that is readable for all. Most history books tend to get tied down with references and stats, this is a history written for the people of Dundee. I knew my home city had a troublesome past, constantly besieged and set fire to. This book shows many events I didn't know about and I loved the author's sense of humor. I've read this book twice now and I don't think it will be the last time I pick it up.

[Stuart]

Interesting popular look at Dundee History right up to 2006. In fact recent history (within my memory)was captivating. Excellent for local insiders but not sure what other would make of his many 'asides'.