Why Researchers Choose Labor History for High-Impact Publications

Labor History stands as a cornerstone in the field of industrial employee relations, offering scholars a dedicated platform to explore the evolution of workers' movements, labor policies, and social histories tied to employment. Established in 1960, this Taylor & Francis publication has chronicled pivotal moments in labor struggles, from union formations to workplace reforms across global contexts. With a focus on historical analysis, it bridges past events with contemporary implications for employee rights and industrial dynamics.

Researchers value Labor History for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to interdisciplinary insights. The journal's scope encompasses not just traditional labor history but also intersections with economics, sociology, and political science. Its impact factor of 0.4 (2022 Clarivate Analytics) reflects steady influence in niche academic circles, particularly for studies on trade unions, industrial conflicts, and worker agency. Articles often draw on archival sources, oral histories, and comparative methodologies to illuminate enduring themes in employment relations.

For those in industrial employee relations, publishing here enhances visibility among historians and policy experts. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach broader audiences, amplifying the relevance of their findings in ongoing debates about labor markets and social justice. Whether examining 19th-century strikes or modern gig economy challenges, Labor History provides a trusted venue for nuanced scholarship.

To advance your career, consider submitting your next paper on labor dynamics. Explore labor studies academic jobs or check the academic calendar for submission deadlines.

Overview & History

Labor History was founded in 1960 by the Australian Society for the Study of Labour History, later expanding under Taylor & Francis to become an international quarterly. It emerged during a period of heightened interest in social history, aiming to document the experiences of working-class movements. Over six decades, it has published over 1,000 articles, evolving from regional focuses to global labor narratives. Key milestones include special issues on deindustrialization in the 1980s and digital labor in the 2010s, solidifying its role in industrial employee relations discourse.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal covers a wide array of topics within labor history and industrial relations, emphasizing historical perspectives on employment. Below is a table outlining primary disciplines:

Key Journal Metrics

Labor History maintains solid metrics for a specialized humanities journal. Here's a summary:

Indexing and Abstracting

Labor History is indexed in major databases, ensuring discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (Emerging Sources Citation Index), Historical Abstracts, and America: History and Life. These listings facilitate citations and accessibility for researchers worldwide. For full coverage, visit the Scopus page or Clarivate JCR.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Labor History offers subscription-based access with optional open access. Authors can choose gold OA upon acceptance, with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of £2,450 (approximately $3,200 USD, 2024 rates). No fees for standard publication. Taylor & Francis provides waivers for corresponding authors from low-income countries via Research4Life. Page charges are not applicable.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through ScholarOne Manuscripts. Prepare manuscripts in double-spaced format, up to 10,000 words, with Chicago-style citations. Initial review takes 4-6 weeks, followed by double-blind peer review averaging 3-4 months. Guidelines emphasize original research and clear historical arguments. Access the portal at the official journal homepage.

Editorial Board Highlights

The board comprises experts from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief is Donna T. Haverty-Stacke (Hunter College, CUNY), specializing in U.S. labor movements. Notable members include Jan Lucassen (International Institute of Social History) for global perspectives and Lex Heerma van Voss for European labor history. Their diverse expertise ensures balanced, high-quality reviews.

Why Publish in Labor History?

Publishing in Labor History elevates your profile in industrial employee relations. It attracts citations from historians and social scientists, aiding tenure and grant applications. The journal's longevity and Taylor & Francis backing provide archival stability. For career growth, pair your publication with opportunities like Rate My Professor reviews or history faculty jobs.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Labor History compares favorably in its historical depth. See the table below:

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with the journal's historical lens—avoid purely contemporary analyses without archival ties. Use primary sources and engage with recent issues. Revise based on reviewer feedback promptly. Network via labor history conferences. Track progress on ScholarOne and consider co-authorship for broader appeal. Finally, review industrial relations PhD programs to build expertise.