The City of London is a unique entity in the United Kingdom that has a fascinating history, dating back over 2000 years. It is not only a financial and commercial center of England, but it also has its own distinct government, laws, and traditions. The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the City, which is headed by the Lord Mayor of London.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the City of London is its tradition of controlling who can enter the City. Even the King or Queen of England must ask for permission to enter the City limits. This tradition dates back to medieval times when the City was a separate entity from the rest of England. The City had its own walls and gates, and the lord mayor had jurisdiction over the area. The king or queen had to ask permission to enter because they were not the ruling authority in the City, and they were considered guests in this sovereign territory.
The City of London is also unique in that it is not part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. Instead, it is a self-governing city-state, which is commonly referred to as the Square Mile. The City has its own government, police force, and judicial system, which is separate from the rest of England. This independent status is due to the City’s historical significance and its importance in the world of finance and commerce.
The City of London has always been a hub of business and trade. It has been a center of finance since the Middle Ages and was home to the first stock exchange in the world. The City of London is now a global financial hub, with many of the world’s largest financial institutions and corporations based in the City. The City is also home to some of the most iconic landmarks in London, including St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.
The City’s unique status has been the subject of controversy and debate over the years. Some argue that the City’s independence gives it too much power and influence over the rest of the country, while others believe that it is necessary for the City to maintain its position as a global financial hub.
In recent years, the City of London Corporation has taken steps to become more transparent and accountable, and it has worked to improve its relationship with the rest of the United Kingdom. The City has also sought to maintain its status as a global financial hub, despite the challenges posed by Brexit and other global economic changes.
In conclusion, the City of London is a unique and fascinating entity that has a long and storied history. Its tradition of controlling who can enter the City, as well as its independent status, make it an intriguing and often controversial part of the United Kingdom. Despite the debates and controversies, the City of London remains an important and thriving part of England’s culture and economy.
- “Brexit Threatens London’s Status as a Global Financial Hub.” CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2019/01/15/brexit-threatens-londons-status-as-a-global-financial-hub.html (accessed April 12, 2023).
- “The City of London Corporation: Who We Are” – City of London Corporation https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/about-the-city/who-we-are
- “The City of London’s odd voting system explained” – BBC News https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-48803476
- “The City of London and the Great Wen” – The Economist https://www.economist.com/britain/2019/02/21/the-city-of-london-and-the-great-wen
- “The strange, secretive life of the City of London” – The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/oct/03/strange-secrective-life-city-london-lord-mayor-guildable-manor-tour
- “The City of London: A Unique Political Entity.” BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-12140645 (accessed April 12, 2023).
“The Strange, Secret History of the City of London.” National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/2020/01/the-strange-secret-history-of-the-city-of-london/ (accessed April 12, 2023).
Copyright 2023 – Chief Anu Khnem Ra Ka El