Leeds gets its name from the 5th century Forest of Loidis and this was recorded by Bede in the Historia ecclesiastica.  This was a market town in the Middle Ages, situated on the River Aire, specialising in woollen garments and cloths.

In the 17th century Leeds was a major player in the Wool Trade.  from the 18th century, the flax industry developed and iron foundries then printing became important industries within the city.  Today, Leeds is a major economic centre for the north of England.