Changing Approaches to Local History: Warwickshire History and its Historians

This book explores Warwickshire's past, discusses the changes in local history writing over the last century, and provides original and well-researched interpretations of the region's history. It appeals to those interested in local history and how it should be studied and written.

Format: Hardback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2022
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

This book, published to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary of the Dugdale Society, which publishes Warwickshire's records, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the county's past for both outsiders and those already engaged with the subject. It also seeks to explore questions that apply in other regions, including those outside the United Kingdom.

The book brings together a diverse group of scholars, including early career researchers, tenured academics, independent scholars, and an archivist, all of whom have distinguished records in research and writing. Their expertise spans a wide range of political, social, economic, cultural, architectural, and religious subjects from the eleventh to the twentieth centuries.

In addition to offering original and well-researched interpretations of Warwickshire's past, the book delves into the evolution of local history writing over the past hundred years. It pays particular attention to the meanings and explanations that have emerged in recent times, which can provide insights into future developments in the field. As such, the book appeals to a wide audience, including those interested in the local history of Warwickshire, as well as those concerned with local history in general and the methodologies used to study and write it.

The book is organized into four chapters, each covering a different period of Warwickshire's history. The first chapter explores the county's medieval period, from the Norman conquest to the dissolution of the monasteries. The second chapter examines the Tudor and Stuart periods, focusing on the political, social, and economic changes that occurred during this time. The third chapter explores the Georgian and Victorian periods, highlighting the architectural and cultural developments of the era. The fourth chapter examines the twentieth century, focusing on the social, economic, and cultural changes that shaped the county's modern history.

Throughout the book, the scholars employ a variety of methodologies, including historical analysis, archival research, and cultural studies, to provide a rich and nuanced understanding of Warwickshire's past. They draw on a wide range of sources, including primary documents, secondary literature, and oral histories, to shed light on the experiences and perspectives of different groups and individuals throughout history.

One of the key themes that emerges from the book is the importance of local history in shaping our understanding of the past and the present. Local history provides a sense of place and identity, connecting individuals and communities to their past and present. It also helps us to understand the complex and multifaceted nature of historical events and processes, and to appreciate the diversity of human experiences and cultures.

Another theme that emerges is the changing nature of local history writing over the past hundred years. The rise of popular history and the decline of academic history have led to a shift in the focus and style of local history writing. Popular history tends to be more accessible and engaging, while academic history is more rigorous and scholarly. However, both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to recognize the value of both in understanding the past.

The book also raises important questions about the role of local history in contemporary society. How can local history be used to promote social justice and equality? How can it be used to promote cultural heritage and heritage tourism? How can it be used to promote community engagement and participation? These are challenging questions that require careful consideration and analysis.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of local history. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Warwickshire's past, and it raises important questions that apply in other regions and beyond. The book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it accessible to a wide audience, and it is backed by a wealth of scholarly expertise and research. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the local history of Warwickshire, as well as to anyone interested in the broader field of local history and its significance in shaping our understanding of the past and the present.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783277445