Research Methods for History

Book excerpt: Provides a lively critical survey of methods for historical research at all levelsWhile historians have become increasingly sensitive to social and cultural theory since the 1980s, the actual methods by which research is carried out in History have been largely taken for granted. Research Methods for History encourages those researching the past to think creatively about the wide range of methods currently in use, to understand how these methods are used and what historical insights they can provide.The book covers sources and methods that are well-established in History, such as archival research, together with those that are less widely known. The themes of the different chapters have been selected to reflect recent trends in the subject. Even with more established methods, however, the aim is to present new insights and perspectives and to open researchers' minds to new methodological possibilities.Key featuresInternational scopeEncourages methodological comparison across time-periodsEncourages historians at all levels to think critically and creativelyTransferable methodological skills useful for Geography, Archaeology and Cultural Studies