In any large city like Bristol there have always been those who are
intemperate, resentful, envious, greedy, angry, lovelorn, depressed or
sadistic. Given certain circumstances these traits and emotions can
drive even the least-expected person to carry out criminal acts, which
may be calculated, long planned, spur of the moment and, in some cases,
seemingly inexplicable. They are all part of the dark history of
Bristol. Examining that history shows that Bristol was a violent and
dangerous place for many, and there were great gulfs between the
privileged and the poor. In this book, local author Cynthia Stiles sets
out to shed some light on a variety of murders and misdemeanours from
the past, those who committed them and the conditions that may have
prompted such actions. From highwaymen to murderers, prostitutes to
outlaws and press gangs to prison escapes, this compelling collection
presents a fascinating insight into the criminal and social history of
the city. Illustrated throughout, Bristol: Danger, Death and Dark Deeds
will be of interest to residents, visitors and local historians.
