Using a unique data-rich study of Newcastle's becoming of a metropolitan city-region in the 19th century, this book explores a new understanding of how successful cities attain a metropolitan status through disruptions of incessant economic advances being ameliorated by myriad social organizations to create a new vibrant urban environment.

The book defines the specific process of 'becoming metropolitan' by bringing together economic and social urban studies to explain an interactive development that when successful, creates a metropolitan city region. In addition, a real example of this is meticulously described through a detailed case study that traces the process across decades to a metropolitan outcome. In doing so, it combines theoretical and empirical understandings within a single text and providing accessible information to a unique and large data set.

Becoming Metropolitanwill appeal to graduates and researchers of Geography, Sociology, Planning and History specializing in cities and urban studies. It will also be valuable to a larger public audience with interest in cities, as 'metropolitan' is a commonplace idea easily understood, and in the case-study city.