Historical Society Research Articles

Императорское Русское военно-историческое общество и формирование исторической памяти о военных событиях в начале ХХ века

This study analyses the ability and potential of the Imperial Russian Military Historical Society to influence the formation of historical memory of military events in Russian history in the early 20th century. The methodological basis is a synthesis of ideas from the interdisciplinary paradigm of memory studies, as well as comparative historical and typological historical methods. The author proceeds from the assumption that in the early 20th century, the Russian Military Historical Society was among the key actors in the formation of historical memory of significant events in military history. The extensive structure, large membership, broad local representation and various forms of commemoration allowed the society to participate in the process of selecting acts of remembrance of military events and figures as well as assigning certain meanings to them. The study identified difficulties in implementing a number of commemorative projects, such as insufficient financial support and conflicts between the central and local offices as well as between the society’s members. The author comes to the conclusion that, despite the organizational and financial problems, the Russian Military Historical Society during its short period of existence has made a significant contribution to preserving the memory of military campaigns, which is reflected in various forms of commemoration. In addition, the society has managed to earn a reputation and gain the trust of military historians. Turning to these topics not only expands our understanding of the mnemonic actors existing in the modern world, but also allows us to recreate the main directions of the policy of memory in the Russian Empire in the early 20th century. Further research into the commemorative projects of the Imperial Russian Military Historical Society, as well as its interactions with other actors, seems promising.

Three Eye and Vision Care History Organizations: Their Emphases, Activities, and How to Get Involved

This paper describes three organizations devoted to various aspects of the history of eye and vision care. The Optometric Historical Society, founded in 1969, strives to promote the study, documentation and appreciation of optometry history. The Ophthalmic Antiques International Collectors’ Club, founded in 1982, and the Ocular Heritage Society, founded in 1984, are societies of collectors of vision aids and other objects related to eye and vision care, and they work to promote the study of ophthalmic antiques.

Montana Historical Society Member Recognition

Montana Historical Society Member Recognition

From Contract Surgeon to Town Doctor: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Light Herr

Objectives The life and legacy of Dr. Martin L. Herr of Lancaster, PA helps to correct the popular perception that contract surgeons in the Civil War were nothing more than quacks and butchers when in fact they proved to be courageous and competent physicians essential to give medical care to overwhelming numbers of casualties. Methods Personal papers and archives of ML Herr in the Lancaster Historical Society (Lancaster, PA) were reviewed. Results ML Herr obtained his medical training and degree while serving as a contract surgeon during the Civil War. He transformed that experience to become a community leader and town physician and surgeon. His legacy helps to restore the reputation of contract surgeons to the honor they deserve. Conclusions Dr. ML Herr served both his fellow man and his community with distinction during the Civil War and in civilian life. He left the army, his country, the people of Lancaster, his family, and his profession better off because of his presence.

Hanging by a Thread: The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Complexities of Memorializing and Mourning Lynching in America

BrANCH's Harriet Tubman essay prize seeks to reward the best undergraduate essay or research project by Black, Asian, or other minority ethnic students based in the UK. The prize is generously cosponsored by the Royal Historical Society.

Informing Policy and Responding to Crisis

This article explores historians’ role in shaping public policy amid crises through the programs of the Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS). ISHS navigated the post-2008 recession, aligning with the History Relevance Campaign to redefine history’s societal value and develop a legislative outreach program. This article encapsulates the ISHS’s journey and history’s power—through the agency’s new briefing paper program—to inform, unite, guide policy, and promote informed governance. The article describes the author’s workflow, which features traditional research methodology and adaptable project management philosophies and stresses the value of searchable research libraries as a framework for historians to manage multiple projects.

Overview of the Methods of Collecting Algerian Documents at the Beginning of the Second Half of the 19th Century: The “Algerian Historical Society” as a Model

Overview of the Methods of Collecting Algerian Documents at the Beginning of the Second Half of the 19th Century: The “Algerian Historical Society” as a Model

Personal reflections on the genesis, early history and activities of the British Society of Sports History

ABSTRACT It was with great interest that I read the recent special issue of Sport in History (42.4) which reflected on the past, present and future of the British Society of Sports History (BSSH). I congratulate BSSH on its many successes in helping catalyse and galvanise significant developments in sports history whilst also embracing changing social values and attitudes in wider society. It is wonderful to read just how far the field of sports history has moved forward this past 40 years with many new initiatives, personalities and engagements with the wider public. However, some aspects of the society's history as portrayed in that special issue require clarification since, as all readers of the journal will appreciate, one of the most valuable lessons from history is that it is only through better understanding of our past that we better understand our present, and it is for this reason that I thought it worth writing to help provide some additional context. I intend to offer this clarification here by elaborating on several themes: the genesis, formation, aims and activities of the society; support of and engagement with its membership; BSSH activities to engage the wider public, and BSSH's changing profile.

Navigating the Paradox of Repair: Indigenous Genocide and Public Education in Minnesota and Manitoba

This paper examines how educational institutions and individual educators in Manitoba, Canada, and Minnesota, United States (US), understand and enact reparation in their respective fields of practice. The basic principle of restorative or reparative justice is that wrongs are set right by giving back to the injured party that which restores equality, dignity, and rights. However, educational reforms reveal a structural challenge in societies reckoning with the legacies of foundational violence perpetrated against Indigenous populations. Coupling an analysis of state / provincial social studies standards with key informant interviews, we try to untangle the paradox that the public education system, including non-formal education offered in state museums or historical societies are now tasked with addressing and repairing an injustice they were- and, to a large degree, continue to be - a part of. Findings show that sometimes dissonant visions of a reparative future and conflicting attempts to seek and promote justice in public history, the curriculum, and pedagogy are negotiated in the educational arena, resulting in complementary forms of specific practices. These constitute a growing stock of knowledge and models of engagement that shed light on how institutions and individual actors navigate the project and paradox of repair.

Discussions about the New World Order in the Context of Scientific Diplomacy

In 2023, the Institute of World History, in partnership with the Russian Historical Society, organized several landmark international scientific events dedicated to the formation of a new world order. First of all, the article analyzes the international academic conference “Formation and change of international political systems. Experience of history for the contemporary world order”, in which, in addition to famous Russian speakers, foreign experts from 17 countries took part. The topics of the conference touched upon the issues and circumstances of the formation and change of international political systems, from Westphalia in the 17th century to Yalta-Potsdam in the 20th century, as well as the main trends of the modern stage of international relations, including political, economic, social and, very importantly, value aspects question. Based on the results of the events held in 2023, it was decided to prepare a concept document for a new multipolar world by March 1, 2024, the discussion of which will take place in the spring of 2024, also with the participation of foreign experts. Thus, the scientific discussions held in 2023 are an example of genuine science diplomacy, securing Russia’s status as one of the leaders in this new scientific direction.

«Рассказывать сегодня о Гражданской войне нужно сдержанно, без стремления взять чью-то сторону…»

Ruslan Grigorievich Gagkuev — Doctor of Historical Sciences, Chairman of the Board of the Russian Historical Society, Executive Director of the History of the Fatherland Foundation, leading researcher at the Center for Military History of Russia at the Institute of Russian History of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Wellknown researcher of the history of the Civil War in Russia. Ruslan Grigorievich visited Omsk several times on scientific affairs. This interview was agreed upon during the preparation of the V International Scientific and Practical Conference «Civil War in the East of Russia: A Look Through the Documentary Heritage». The interview was given remotely and then edited by Ruslan Grigorievich from Moscow in October 2023. The conversation is devoted to the current state of the study of the Civil War in Russia and the development of domestic historical science.

Numeracy and consistency in age declarations: a case study on nineteenth and twentieth century Catalonia

AbstractA rich tradition exists on measuring human capital in historical societies through basic mathematical skills using the method of age heaping. In this article, we novelty propose to calculate it also through the analysis of the consistency in individual consecutive age declaration statements in five towns of Baix Llobregat’s county (Barcelona, Spain) during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The region underwent a proto-industrialization in the eighteenth century and was one of the main wool and cotton textile producers in the nineteenth century in Catalonia. Our main results show that (I) numeracy levels in this county were above the Spanish average in the whole period and, during the first years of the nineteenth century, ahead of countries such as Italy, Portugal and the USA. However, its numeracy dropped from 1880’s due the early industrialization of Catalonia in the Spanish and Southern Europe context, the existence of child labor in the factories and that also coincided with the phylloxera crisis. (II) To this effect, women presented lower levels of numeracy than men, but their levels tended to converge. (III) As regards emigrants, those who came to the rest of Spain had the lowest level of numeracy compared to the natives. (IV) Moreover, we found that literacy, the 1901 education reform and a higher socioeconomic status had a positive effect on reporting ages consistently over time. (V) Finally, we prove a positive association between systematically reporting ages ending in 0 or 5 and having a higher individual error in age statements along the life course.

Национальный форум историков: состояние, актуальные проблемы и перспективы исторического образования и науки в России

This article dwells on the Second National Forum of History Teachers which took place in Tobolsk in October 2023. The paper covers the forum’s main results as well as the work of its sections and plenary session and characterizes the key reports and speeches by scholars and university teachers, leaders of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, State Duma, Russian Academy of Sciences, Russian Academy of Education, Russian Historical Society and other organizations. In addition, the article analyses the forum’s significance for the development of historical science and higher education in Russia, as well as the agenda of the next forum scheduled to be held in 2024.

Gender conflict resolution in Nigerian and African American standup performances

Stand-up comedy, a prominent facet of live theatrical entertainment, occupies a unique position in the entertainment industry, embodying a key element of popular culture. This comedic form reflects the sociological dynamics of both historical and contemporary societies, influencing and engaging both local and international audiences. Beyond providing psycho-physical therapy for performers, stand-up comedy plays a pivotal role in shaping societal perceptions. This article focuses on a gender-focused analysis of stand-up comedy, exploring its implications for domestic growth, marriage unity, and love. Utilizing three digital recordings featuring stand-up comedians, namely Bright Okpocha (Basket Mouth), Ayo Makun (AY), and Eddie Murphy, the study examines their unique approaches to addressing gender-based violence and resolving conflicts. The selection criteria were based on the comedians' distinct counseling methods and perspectives on gender-related issues. Drawing on Richard Schechner's performance theory, the analysis employs both performance and content analyses to elucidate the spectrum of gender conflicts and resolutions presented by the comedians. The findings underscore the importance of mutual understanding and communication in resolving gender conflicts. The article also delves into the influence of parental roles in household management and the pursuit of material wealth. Emphasizing the significant role of counseling modes, the study concludes that stand-up comedy, with its oratory counseling mode and therapeutic elements, serves as an effective means of addressing gender conflicts, contributing to mutual understanding and successful resolutions within society.

Montana Historical Society Members

Montana Historical Society Members

Multivariate statistical analysis on Japanese traditional papers, washi, for evaluation of DNA presence and quality

Traditional papermaking was a significant innovation that intrigued the information-sharing society in a wide range of the globe. The importance of finding the historical background hidden behind the historical traditional paper is critical to understanding societies in history. Advanced molecular biological research is applied to many forensic studies to identify the origin and criminal events. Yet, biological research refrained from the heritage science of traditional papers due to its damage to the samples. The current study explores the Pearson correlation between DNA in traditional paper and non-destructive measurement of characteristics of traditional paper. DNA concentration and purity were found to have a proportional relationship based on the CIEL*a*b* color system. The color of the traditional paper was assessed assessment shows green and yellow rather than red and blue. The DNA concentration demonstrated a positive linear correlation with the peaks of 992 cm−1, 1599 cm−1, and 1628 to 1638 cm−1 region, which were lignin-specific functional groups. The presence of lignin in traditional paper defines the colors green and yellow, which is related to the presence of a cell wall. The quantity of cell walls present is linked to DNA survival during the traditional papermaking process. Furthermore, the partial least square (PLS) regression model is established. The prediction model based on DNA, paper properties, and smoothing + the second derivative preprocessed attenuated total reflection-Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectral data demonstrated valid purity predictions. The evaluation parameter of the cross-validated prediction model contains a low Root Mean Square Error of Cross-Validation (RMSECV) of 0.091 for DNA purity. The determination coefficient was close to 1. However, the further establishment of a validated DNA extraction methodology is required for the consistency of the prediction model for DNA concentration. The hierarchical clustering analysis demonstrated the agglomerative dendrogram on traditional paper samples. For the dendrogram, the Nasu paper mulberry (originating in northern Japan) was distinguished from another paper mulberry (originating in southwestern Japan) by clustering. By multivariate statistical analysis, the DNA presence and quality were predictable from the Japanese traditional papers. In addition, the clustering analysis provided the possible origin of paper mulberry materials for traditional papers. Based on the preliminary information, the need for DNA analysis on historical traditional paper can be determined.

Charlotte Berry. The Margins of Late Medieval London, 1430–1540. New Historical Perspectives. London: Royal Historical Society, Institute of Historical Research, University of London Press, 2022. Pp. 350. $55.00 (cloth).

Charlotte Berry. The Margins of Late Medieval London, 1430–1540. New Historical Perspectives. London: Royal Historical Society, Institute of Historical Research, University of London Press, 2022. Pp. 350. $55.00 (cloth).

Keeping the archives above water: preserving regional heritage in times of accelerated climate change

The critical question of how sustainability and resilience can inform archival practice in regional communities is motivated by the experience of flooding in Lismore, Australia, which exposed the vulnerability of local archives to the effects of climate change and the limitations of local infrastructure. Regional historical societies and community organisations serve as a repository for the history of particular communities, preserving records, artefacts and other materials that document the unique stories and experiences of that place. Collections are independently curated and generally run by volunteers but poorly resourced with insufficient space. They are more likely to be subject to extreme weather events that disproportionately impact regional Australia compared to its cities. Regional collections fall outside national strategies for sustainability, digitisation or investment. Without urgent attention to the fate of regional archives, local heritage is under threat, and with it, an understanding of how that history contributes to the national past and the connection to place and community. This paper explores regional archives from the perspective of the local historical records of Lismore, Northern New South Wales, where flooding is a familiar experience that has reached a new intensity in recent years.

Refusing Confederation: Indigenous Feminist Performance as a Tool for Colonial Reckoning and Community (Re)Building

Abstract: In 2017, the Kika'ige Historical Society, an Indigenous women's performance troupe based in Guelph, Canada, created Tabling 150 in response to celebrations of Canada's sesquicentennial. Tabling 150 presented an opportunity for Indigenous women to engage in truth-telling amid celebrations of settler-colonial nationalism. By taking on personas of the "Grannies of Confederation," a play on the title of the well-known painting The Fathers of Confederation , the performers participated in Native feminist spatial practice, creating new orders through felt theory, presencing, and enacting refusals within their time and place in the academy. Drawing on interviews with the performers, we examine questions of the felt experience of doing Indigenous artivist resistance. Data from the participant performers was inductively coded, revealing four prominent themes: connecting with ancestors, taking space as resistance, community solidarity and empowerment, and Indigenous women's work in spatial practice while Indigenizing the academy. The analysis revealed that performance is an effective tool for calling out Canada's mistreatment of Indigenous Peoples at Confederation and the social inequities encoded into Canadian law during a period of settler-colonial celebration. The collective act of truth-telling by Indigenous performers strengthened a community through which it became safe to reflect upon and challenge colonial norms.

Scrapbook Historiography: The American Catholic Historical Society's Early History, 1884–1904

Abstract: This essay presents a kind of lens or technique for obtaining information on the founding years of the American Catholic Historical Society. Most historians of the Society have relied on its printed literature, especially this journal, but much can be gleaned from contemporary scrapbooks assembled by early members. Through their pages, a more accurate picture of the Society's first decade emerges, and with it, a new method for documentation of its history. The author explores the utility of scrapbooks as such but posits that the ACHS scrapbooks relate important aspects of late nineteenth century collecting habits, the role of lay people in the local church, and the impact of ethnic Catholicism in what counts as vital markers for one generation's heritage and the legacy they wish to bequeath.