King's Lynn historian releases book
A historian has released a book at a launch party which was attended by guests at the Town Hall where signed copies could be acquired.
Dr Paul Richards' study in Anglo-German medieval trade and politics is called King's Lynn The German Hanse 1250-1550.
The history of Lynn and its Hanseatic links is explored in the book and Dr Richards conducts a thorough survey of Anglo-Haneatic commerce through the East Anglian ports in the 15th century.
It is dedicated to Alison for help and encouragement with his idea, and in memory of Professor Dr Klaus Friedland, a friend and mentor.
The book investigates the character of the German Hanse and why Hanseatic ships used Lynn as prime destination.
The author is born and bred in Lynn, studying history followed by teacher training.
He taught in further and higher education at the college of West Anglia and part-time for the Open University.
His previous experience was as a borough councillor and he served as mayor from 1998-2000.
Involvement with the True's Yard Fisherfolk Museum has seen many notable events take place featuring local maritime artists.
The preface of the book explains the principal aim in assessing the significance of Lynn in Anglo-Hanseatic history when towns and the merchant class were rising in medieval Europe.
It seeks to find out the origins of today's modern Hanse embracing almost 200 member towns across northern Europe .
He introduces the interest of local historians in Lynn's long association with the Hanseatic towns, citing St Margarets on the river Great Ouse and the medieval roots spanning the 15th to 18th century.
St Margaret's House was renamed Hanse House in 2009 during the summer Hanse Festival organised by West Norfolk Council.
The word hanse describes a 'hanshus or hall' to conduct the town's business and in 1204 Lynn was granted a royal charter.
Dr Richards' book is inspired by both Lynn's Hanseatic past and present and explores the key role the town played in the overseas trade of the nation as far back as 1600.
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