The Edinburgh History of the British and Irish Press: Volumes 1-3

The history of newspapers and periodicals in England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales from 1650 to the present day is explored in a three-volume prestige project, examining how they have shaped national and regional identities, influenced civic society, and impacted technological development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1000 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Over the past four centuries, newspapers and periodicals have played a pivotal role in shaping the dissemination of information across Britain and Ireland. At different junctures, significant political, economic, and social developments have either facilitated or impeded the expansion and circulation of news. In the present era, where debates about devolution and independence dominate the political landscape, it is essential to examine the roles that newspapers and periodicals have played in fostering national and regional identities, cohering, and diversifying over time.

To understand the most significant processes at work, it is crucial to identify the critical flashpoints in the development of newspapers and periodicals. These moments have profound implications for the press's place in civic society and have shaped the trajectory of their evolution.

In considering these factors within the broader context of the British and Irish press, it becomes evident that newspapers and periodicals have played a vital role in shaping the nation's history. They have provided a platform for public discourse, influenced public opinion, and served as a watchdog for democracy. However, they have also faced challenges and controversies, such as censorship, libel laws, and the rise of digital media.

This three-volume prestige project aims to provide a comprehensive and definitive account of newspaper and periodical press activity across Britain and Ireland between 1650 and the present day. It addresses four key research interests: general social/political history, newspaper and periodical history, cultural history, and technological history.

The first volume explores the historical context of the press in Britain and Ireland, including the development of printing technology, the establishment of newspapers, and the regulatory frameworks that governed their operation. It also examines the social and political factors that shaped the press, such as the rise of popular journalism, the influence of political parties, and the impact of colonialism on the press.

The second volume delves into the history of newspapers and periodicals in specific regions of Britain and Ireland, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It explores the local and regional press, the challenges faced by newspapers in different contexts, and the ways in which they have responded to changing societal needs and technological advancements.

The third volume focuses on the cultural and social impact of newspapers and periodicals, examining their role in shaping public opinion, promoting literacy, and fostering a sense of community. It also explores the ways in which newspapers and periodicals have influenced literature, art, and music, and the ways in which they have been used as tools for social and political activism.

In conclusion, the history of newspapers and periodicals in Britain and Ireland is a rich and complex tapestry that reflects the nation's political, economic, and social development. This three-volume prestige project offers a comprehensive and definitive account of this history, shedding light on the roles played by newspapers and periodicals in shaping national and regional identities, cohering, and diversifying over time. By examining the critical flashpoints in their development, we can better understand the press's place in civic society and the consequences of their evolution for the future of journalism.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399518383