Writing Imperial Histories

Exploring the Evolution of Imperial Historical Narratives

Andrew Thompson editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Manchester University Press

Published:31st Aug '13

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Writing Imperial Histories cover

This volume highlights the Studies in Imperialism series' role in reshaping imperial histories, featuring insights from leading scholars in the field.

In Writing Imperial Histories, the author evaluates the significant impact of the Studies in Imperialism series on the field of imperial histories, celebrating its milestone of 100 publications. This volume features contributions from leading scholars who delve into the evolving intellectual landscape of imperial history. With a keen focus on cultural interpretations of empire that have emerged over recent decades, the book highlights how these perspectives have reshaped our understanding of imperial narratives.

When the Studies in Imperialism series was initiated, the discipline of imperial history faced considerable challenges, often regarded as being in decline. However, over the past twenty-five years, the field has undergone a remarkable transformation, expanding the scope of empire studies. The essays collected in this volume examine how the series and broader historical discourse have worked to bridge British and imperial histories, revealing the complex interplay between colonial power and cultural expression.

Writing Imperial Histories also investigates the diverse experiences and perceptions of the home population in relation to the empire. By bringing together these critical analyses, the volume serves as a testament to the ongoing relevance and richness of imperial studies, encouraging readers to engage with the intricate narratives that have shaped our understanding of the past.

A fitting tribute to Professor MacKenzie’s enormous contribution to modern imperial history. In the spirit of MacKenzie’s expansive vision, this collection works both as a summation of his career and also as a stimulus to further research.'
Saul Dubow, Professor of History, Sussex University

Coincident attention to genealogy and innovative potential is the hallmark of this collection.
Leonardi and Ward, among others, connect recent cutting-edge scholarship
with its still-active ancestor: John M. MacKenzie, the founding editor of the Studies in
Imperialism. The theme reappears subtly in Robert Aldrich’s study of gender in empire,
as he demonstrates that the series carved out a space for sexuality to be taken seriously
as a point of historical investigation, and, more pointedly, when Dane Kennedy traces
a clear path from early histories of exploration to the environmental histories now in
vogue in the academy. In fact, the dual vantage points make this collection much more
than a retrospective. While each of the essays elucidates the importance of past contributions
to the eld, the assembled authors also propose compelling future paths of inquiry.

ISBN: 9780719086007

Dimensions: 234mm x 156mm x 22mm

Weight: 662g

320 pages