Portsmouth's position on the south coast of England has meant it has been an important port for centuries, and the heavily fortified home of the Royal Navy. Industries surrounding the naval docks and shipbuilding led Portsmouth to become one of the most heavily industrialised areas in the country during the nineteenth century, and today this part of Hampshire is Britain's most densely populated urban area. In Portsmouth Murders and Misdemeanours author Dean Hollands explores the history of serious crime in Portsmouth from medieval times to the twentieth century. He looks at how the punishments for crimes evolved, including the use of corporal and capital punishment and the sites of these grisly events. Tales include murder in many guises, crimes of passion, highwaymen, robbers and motor bandits, a conviction for witchcraft during the Second World War, arson and terrorism, and mutiny - most famously the trial of the crew of Captain Bligh's Bounty, as well as the assassination of George Villiers, the Duke of Buckingham, and the Bishop of Chichester. This collection of true life crime stories gives a vivid insight into life in historic Portsmouth. This book will fascinate anyone with an interest in the history of crime, as well as those who want to know more about the history of the city.
