Historical Research

Research is the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions

What makes good historical research? Put simply, diligence, knowledge-based understanding – and complete objectivity. I choose the projects I undertake very carefully, and ensure that a clearly defined objective for the project – and parameters for what I am researching – are in place before I start. That way you know what to expect from me, and I know what you expect.

I believe in a cross-disciplinary approach, taking data from archaeology, written history, genealogy*, geography, politics, economics as well as my own on-site observations. I will isolate folklore and myth from fact – and whilst this folklore is itself historically relevant (it tells how a place, person or situation is perceived at a certain time), I will not perpetuate it as historical when it is not, and I will highlight where an idea is my own, and explain why. I will also not undertake to rewrite “revisionist” history to fit a specific agenda or pre-determined narrative.

Please click here for details of my rates for historical research.

From Sherlock Holmes in “A Scandal in Bohemia” –

‘It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.’

*Please note that I am not a professional genealogist, although I do have contacts in that area should you require this service.