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Putting the Black Country on the Map

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03/04/2013

BBC Radio 4 - Putting the Black Country on the Map

Adrian Goldberg tries to work out what the Black Country is - and where it is.

4 Extra Debut. Adrian Goldberg becomes detective, as he sets out on a geographical and anthropological investigation into the origins and boundaries of the Black Country.

Adrian Goldberg becomes detective as he sets out on a geographical and anthropological investigation into the origins and boundaries of the Black Country. 

The coal and iron of the Black Country helped build the nation; its factories made the locks, nails and rivets that sustained the British Empire (not to mention the chains for the Titanic) and it stands at the heart of Britain's canal network. But where exactly is it? Even local inhabitants can't agree. 

Adrian Goldberg sets out to gather the evidence to work out where its boundaries lie and on his way he uncovers the story of one of the UK's most maligned, neglected and misunderstood regions: a place whose darkness was said to appal Queen Victoria.

Where does the Black Country end and the Midlands begin and how and when did it get this name?


Presenter: Adrian Goldberg
Producer : Perminder Khatkar.

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