History of Parliament Publications: A Comprehensive Bibliography
The study of British governance is anchored by the meticulous documentation of its legislative bodies. The History of Parliament Trust has spearheaded an exhaustive effort to record the evolution of the UK's parliamentary system, producing a vast array of scholarly volumes that detail the members, constituencies, and structural changes of both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
These publications serve as the definitive record for historians and researchers, transitioning from broad historical narratives to granular biographical data of individual members of parliament.
Key Facts
- Broad Scope: Documentation spans from the early foundations of Parliament in 1265 through the 19th century.
- Detailed Biographies: The series provides alphabetical member listings across multiple volumes for various eras.
- Constituency Data: Many volumes include dedicated surveys of parliamentary constituencies (the geographical areas represented by elected officials).
- Dual Focus: Research covers both the House of Commons (the elected lower house) and the House of Lords (the appointed or hereditary upper house).
The Story of Parliament
For those seeking a broader overview, the Trust published The Story of Parliament: Celebrating 750 Years of Parliament in Britain (2015), edited by Paul Seaward. This work covers the expansive period from 1265 to 2015, providing a narrative history of the institution's growth.
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The House of Commons Series
The House of Commons publications are characterized by their rigorous chronological approach, often splitting volumes between introductory surveys, constituency data, and alphabetical biographies of members.
Late Medieval and Early Modern Eras
The early records begin with the period of 1386–1421, edited by J.S. Roskell, Linda Clark, and Carole Rawcliffe. This was followed by a comprehensive 7-volume set for 1422–1461 edited by Linda Clark. While the 1461–1504 period is currently in preparation under Hannes Kleineke, the Tudor era is well-documented through the works of S.T. Bindoff (1509–1558) and P.W. Hasler (1558–1603).
The 17th and 18th Centuries
The transition into the early modern period is captured in the 1604–1629 volumes edited by Andrew Thrush and John P. Ferris. Following a gap (1640–1660) currently under preparation by David Scott, Vivienne Larmine, and Stephen Roberts, the record resumes with B.D. Henning's work on 1660–1690 and the collaborative efforts of Eveline Cruickshanks, Stuart Handley, and David Hayton for 1690–1715.
The 18th century is further detailed by Romney Sedgwick (1715–1754) and the influential work of Lewis Namier and John Brooke (1754–1790).
The 19th Century and Beyond
The later records include R.G. Thorne's coverage of 1790–1820 and D.R. Fisher's 7-volume set for 1820–1832. The period from 1832–1868 is currently being developed under the direction of Philip Salmon and Kathryn Rix.
The House of Lords Series
Research into the House of Lords follows a similar scholarly rigor. While the 1604–1629 period is under the direction of Andrew Thrush, the 1660–1715 era is comprehensively covered in a 5-volume set edited by Ruth Paley, which includes specific data on Bishops and Scottish Representative Peers.
The Trust is also preparing a section for 1715–1832 under Robin Eagles, which will be split at the year 1790. Additionally, the Trust published Honour, Interest & Power: An Illustrated History of the House of Lords, 1660–1715 (2010), edited by Ruth Paley and Paul Seaward.
Summary of Major Publications
| Body | Period | Editor(s) | Volumes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | 1265–2015 | Paul Seaward | 1 |
| Commons | 1386–1421 | Roskell, Clark, Rawcliffe | 4 |
| Commons | 1422–1461 | Linda Clark | 7 |
| Commons | 1604–1629 | Thrush & Ferris | 6 |
| Commons | 1820–1832 | D.R. Fisher | 7 |
| Lords | 1660–1715 | Ruth Paley | 5 |
Pre-Trust Publications
Before the establishment of the Trust, earlier versions of the history were produced. Notably, Josiah Wedgwood edited The History of Parliament, 1439–1509 (1936-8), which consisted of two volumes: one for biographies of Commons members and one acting as a register for both Houses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of the House of Commons volumes?
These volumes provide a comprehensive record of the House of Commons, including introductory surveys, detailed information on constituencies, and alphabetical biographies of the members who served during specific time periods.
Which periods of the House of Commons are still being written?
Currently, the periods of 1461–1504, 1640–1660, and 1832–1868 are in preparation.
How is the House of Lords documentation structured?
The House of Lords publications include introductory surveys and alphabetical listings of Peers, with specialized volumes for Bishops and Scottish Representative Peers.
Who edited the earliest pre-Trust version of the History of Parliament?
The pre-Trust version covering 1439–1509 was edited by Josiah Wedgwood and published between 1936 and 1938.
Is there a general history available for those not wanting biographical data?
Yes, The Story of Parliament: Celebrating 750 Years of Parliament in Britain, edited by Paul Seaward, provides a broader historical narrative from 1265 to 2015.