These compelling photos provide a peek into Birmingham’s history, revealing the grim reality of life in slum dwellings.
Years ago, a substantial portion of the city’s inhabitants resided in slums, where existence was often challenging and brief. The images captured here illustrate the transformation that has occurred on the streets following the eradication of these slums during slum clearance initiatives.
The Industrial Revolution of the preceding century had solidified Birmingham’s status as an industrial titan, excelling in trade, education, and engineering. However, for those left behind, confined to hastily constructed slum housing from the Revolution era, it felt like they were living in a completely different universe.
Today, the slums of Birmingham are a thing of the past, with residents having been relocated to the emerging towns of the 50s and 60s, as well as high-rise tower blocks.
Only the Birmingham Back to Backs remain to offer us a snapshot of how life once was for many.
Do you recall growing up in Birmingham during this period? Share your memories in the comments section below.