Book Details

• Author: Kirsty Reid

• Publisher: Routledge

• Language: English

• Edition: 1

• ISBN: 9780415521765

• Number of Pages: 212

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.6 inches

• Weight: Not specified

About the Book

Sources and Methods in Histories of Colonialism provides an in-depth exploration of the relationships between archives, knowledge, and power. This thought-provoking volume delves into the intricacies of the imperial archive, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges involved in working with various source genres within imperial and colonial archives. It facilitates a nuanced approach to the study of empire, offering essential insights for students, scholars, and historians.

Covering a broad time span from the late 18th century to the present day, this book draws on materials from various modern empires, including those established by Britain, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States. The chapters examine themes such as the rise of photography as an archival tool, the role of oral history in colonial narratives, and the dynamic relationship between the state and the archive.

The book goes beyond traditional views of ‘the archive,’ exploring how newer interpretations of the past have influenced contemporary understandings of what archives are, and where their geographical, chronological, and conceptual boundaries lie. Reid provides both an overarching introduction to the subject and a detailed analysis of specific case studies, making this a comprehensive and invaluable resource for anyone studying imperial and colonial history.

The volume also features reviews and insights from prominent scholars like Robert Aldrich (University of Sydney) and J.P. Daughton (Stanford University), underlining its significance in the field. This collection is a crucial read for anyone interested in the history of empire, colonialism, and the influence of archival practices on historical narratives.