Why Researchers Choose Journal of Contemporary History for High-Impact Publications

The Journal of Contemporary History stands as a cornerstone in the field of modern historical scholarship, offering a platform for rigorous analysis of 20th and 21st-century events. Established in 1966 by SAGE Publications, this quarterly journal has built a reputation for publishing groundbreaking articles that bridge political, social, cultural, and economic histories. Researchers value its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from primary sources and innovative methodologies to illuminate contemporary issues.

With a focus on the post-1945 era, the journal attracts contributions from global scholars examining topics like the Cold War, decolonization, social movements, and globalization. Its editorial rigor ensures that only the most insightful and well-supported works see publication, contributing to its status as an essential resource for historians. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach wider audiences while maintaining the prestige of traditional subscription-based dissemination.

Key to its appeal is the journal's impact factor of 0.917 (2022 Clarivate Analytics), reflecting its influence within history and social sciences. Articles here often inform policy debates and academic curricula, providing authors with lasting visibility. For those navigating the competitive landscape of academic publishing, submitting to the Journal of Contemporary History offers a pathway to peer recognition and career advancement.

Whether you're a PhD candidate exploring dissertation topics or a tenured professor seeking to publish seminal works, this journal supports diverse career stages. Its comprehensive peer review process, averaging 3-4 months, ensures constructive feedback that refines research quality. As part of SAGE's esteemed portfolio, it benefits from robust indexing in major databases, enhancing discoverability.

To maximize your publication success, review the journal's detailed guidelines and align your manuscript with its scope. Consider how your work contributes to ongoing dialogues in contemporary history. For further resources on academic opportunities, explore history jobs or PhD programs in history to contextualize your research within broader career paths.

Overview & History

The Journal of Contemporary History was founded in 1966 amid growing interest in recent historical events. Initially edited by Walter Laqueur and George L. Mosse, it quickly became a vital outlet for scholarship on the post-World War II world. Published by SAGE Publications in London, it has evolved to cover a broad spectrum of contemporary themes, from European integration to global conflicts.

Over decades, the journal has featured seminal pieces on topics like the fall of the Berlin Wall and the rise of neoliberalism. Its quarterly issues maintain a balance of thematic special issues and general articles, fostering deep dives into current historiographical debates. Today, under Editor-in-Chief Richard J. Evans, it continues to prioritize original research that challenges conventional narratives.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses the history of the 20th and 21st centuries, emphasizing political, social, and cultural dimensions. It welcomes interdisciplinary submissions that integrate history with sociology, economics, and international relations.

Key Journal Metrics

Indexing and Abstracting

The Journal of Contemporary History is indexed in leading databases, ensuring global accessibility. It appears in Web of Science (Arts & Humanities Citation Index), Scopus, and Historical Abstracts. Additional coverage includes JSTOR, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost, facilitating citations and downloads by researchers worldwide. This indexing supports its role in advancing historical scholarship through measurable impact.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, it offers both subscription access and open access options. Authors can publish under a traditional model at no cost or choose gold open access with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of £2,440 (approximately $3,200 USD, as of 2023). SAGE provides discounts for society members and low-income countries. No page charges apply for standard articles, making it accessible for early-career researchers.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Manuscripts are submitted via the SAGE Track online portal. Guidelines require double-anonymous peer review, with articles limited to 8,000-10,000 words. Include abstracts , keywords, and references in Chicago style. Focus on originality and relevance to contemporary history. Revisions are common, with decisions typically within 12 weeks.

Editorial Board Highlights

The board comprises distinguished historians from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Richard J. Evans (University of Cambridge) oversees operations, supported by associate editors like Vanessa Schwartz (USC) for cultural history and Odd Arne Westad (Harvard) for international relations. Regional experts from Europe, Asia, and the Americas ensure diverse perspectives, enhancing the journal's global reach.

Why Publish in Journal of Contemporary History?

Publishing here elevates your work's visibility among historians and interdisciplinary scholars. The journal's prestige aids tenure and promotion, with articles often cited in books and media. Its focus on timely topics allows engagement with current events, while SAGE's marketing amplifies reach. For career-minded researchers, it offers networking opportunities through special issues.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

Align your abstract with the journal's emphasis on primary evidence and theoretical innovation. Engage with recent issues to identify gaps. Seek feedback from colleagues before submission. For history PhD students, consider how publication here strengthens PhD programs in history applications. Track your submission status via the portal and prepare for multiple review rounds.