Birmingham

Birmingham
source
Name	Birmingham
Settlement type	City and Metropolitan borough
Population total	1,144,900
Population as of	2021
Population density km2	4,294
Official name	City of Birmingham
Coordinates	52, 28, 48, N...
Region	West Midlands
Country	England
Established title	Founded
Established date	c. 600
Lord mayor	Chaman Lal
Government type	Metropolitan borough, City council
Area total km2	267.8
Elevation m	140
Website	https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/

Birmingham is a major city and Metropolitan borough in the West Midlands region of England. With an estimated population of over 1.1 million, it is the second-most populous city in the United Kingdom after London. Historically a market town in Warwickshire, its growth was propelled by the Industrial Revolution, earning it the nickname "the workshop of the world" and establishing it as a global centre for manufacturing and innovation.

History

The area's early history includes the Anglo-Saxon settlement of *Bermingahām*, with the Domesday Book of 1086 recording a modest value. Its transformation began in the 16th century as a centre for metalworking, particularly swords and locks. The Industrial Revolution saw explosive growth, driven by pioneers like Matthew Boulton, James Watt, and members of the Lunar Society at Soho Manufactory. The city's canals, including the Birmingham Canal Navigations, and later the arrival of the London and North Western Railway, cemented its status. Key 20th-century events include heavy bombing during the Birmingham Blitz and significant post-war redevelopment, including the construction of the Bull Ring centre. It was granted city status in 1889 by Queen Victoria and later expanded in 1974 under the Local Government Act 1972.

Geography

Located on the Birmingham Plateau, the city is part of the larger West Midlands conurbation. It is historically within the Forest of Arden and its terrain is varied, with prominent hills like Turners Hill. The principal rivers are the River Tame and its tributaries, including the River Rea. The city's extensive network of canals, often said to exceed that of Venice, is a defining feature. Notable green spaces include the Lickey Hills, Cannon Hill Park, and Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe. The city centre is focused on Victoria Square and Centenary Square.

Economy

Traditionally dominated by manufacturing, its economy was built on small arms, jewellery in the Jewellery Quarter, automotive production by companies like Austin and Rover, and metalware. While manufacturing remains significant, the economy has diversified into services, finance, conferences, and retail. The Bullring is one of the UK's largest shopping centres. It is a major hub for professional services, with large offices for HSBC, Deutsche Bank, and PwC. Key institutions driving innovation include the University of Birmingham and the Birmingham Health Partners partnership. The National Exhibition Centre hosts major trade events.

Demographics

According to the 2021 Census, the city has a population of approximately 1.14 million, making it one of the youngest cities in Europe, with over 22% of residents under 20. It is an exceptionally diverse city, with ethnic minority groups comprising over 51% of the population. Major groups include those of Asian heritage, particularly from Pakistan and India, as well as a significant Black African and Black Caribbean community. This diversity is reflected in areas like Sparkbrook, Handsworth, and Alum Rock. Major religions include Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, and Hinduism.

Culture

The city has a vibrant cultural scene, being the birthplace of the Birmingham School of heavy metal music, with iconic bands like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. It is home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, the Birmingham Royal Ballet, and world-class institutions like the Barber Institute of Fine Arts and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The Library of Birmingham is a major landmark. The Balti, a type of curry, was invented in the Balti Triangle. The city hosts the Birmingham International Carnival and was the host city for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Transport

The city is a major national transport hub. Birmingham New Street is the busiest railway station in the United Kingdom outside London, with extensive services operated by Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry. Birmingham Airport offers numerous international flights. The road network is centred on the M6 and the A38(M) Aston Expressway. An extensive network of local buses is primarily operated by National Express West Midlands. The city centre is served by the West Midlands Metro tram system, with major redevelopment ongoing at Curzon Street for the High Speed 2 (HS2) railway line.

Category:Birmingham Category:Cities in England Category:Metropolitan boroughs