| This dissertation analyzes the development of the London Underground from its initial debate and planning as a private endeavor in the 1850s through to, the creation of a public corporation controlling public transportation in the Greater London metropolitan area in 1933. From the opening of the initial line, the Metropolitan Railway, in 1863 through to the creation of the London Passenger Transport Board in 1933, each Underground line was funded, planned, built and run as privately-owned and managed lines. By using photographs, poster campaigns, private corporation memoranda, transportation experts' commentary and government records, this dissertation explores the consequences of private ownership of public services, and the gradual realization that such a system was inadequate for a modern city's needs as it expanded at an unprecedented rate. It examines the unexpected results of such a system on housing and living standards, popular entertainment and leisure, and social and economic problems in the metropolis. |
