'... this well-researched book is fascinating, at times hilarious, and raises a variety of important issues... This is a useful, often entertaining book contributing to a variety of themes in urban history.' Journal of British Studies 'Overall, the book answers many of my questions on this strange title and the stranger reasons why it is seen as desirable and how it is granted (or not)... It is fluently told, supported by detailed archival research, profusely footnoted... It is an excellent addition to the literature on civic politics, governance, place promotion, and for definitions of 'city'!' Urban History