Civic Gospels: Networks for Social Change

“The City as a Light and a Beacon”

This guide provides an introduction to Birmingham's civic growth.

• How did networks of 19th century nonconformists create the idea of a new ‘civic gospel’ in Birmingham ?
• Who were the men and women responsible for the development of Birmingham's public institutions?
• What 20th century activist groups have tried to challenge ideas of belonging and identity to create social change?
• Can we re-use these ideas of networks to redevelop the city today?

Chapters in this research guide include:

• Civic Gospels: Networks for Social Change
• Religion and Reform
• Changing Political Landscapes
• Twentieth Century Civic Struggles
• People, Politics and Art

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People and places mentioned in this research guide include: Joseph Chamberlain; Louisa Ann Ryland; Tangye Brothers; Cannon Hill Park; Birmingham Art Gallery; Central Reference Library; Birmingham Council House; Birmingham University; George Dawson; R.W. Dale; Thomas Attwood; Newhall Hill; the Bull Ring Riots; Chartism; Trade Unions; Avtar Jouhl; Jagmohan Joshi; Indian Workers Association; Co-ordinating Committee Against Racial Discrimination [CCARD]; Banner Theatre; Charles Parker; and, Dave Rogers.

Further links and research:

Staff Recommends - Civic Gospels Resource List

This is an additional miscellaneous resource list of materials on the subject of ‘Civic Gospels’. Each item was suggested by the staff of Birmingham's Archives & Heritage during research seminars held by the Birmingham Stories project. These can be used in conjuction with the resources in the Civic Gospels research guide.