Glory and Decline of Former European Textile Industry Leaders and Subsequent Changes Reflected in Population and Social Development: The Comparison of Manchester, Łódź and Brno

Abstract

This paper analyses the rise and fall of the textile industry in three European industrial textile giants: Manchester, Łódź, and Brno, and its impact on population development and socio-economic transformation in these cities. It examines their transformation following the industry's decline, focusing on economic diversification and revitalization of industrial areas. The methodology includes the study of not only historical and contemporary literature, but also archival and statistical data. The textile industry's boom brought significant population growth, economic prosperity, and social prestige. Its decline led to varying degrees of population stagnation or critical decline and a need to address the industrial legacy. Today, it is crucial to focus on new economic sectors, technological innovation, research and development, while also preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the textile industry.