Past & Present – History Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Past & Present for High-Impact Publications

Past & Present stands as a cornerstone in historical scholarship, offering a platform for innovative research that bridges past events with contemporary relevance. Established in 1952, this journal has evolved into a vital resource for historians exploring social, economic, and cultural dimensions of history. With its rigorous peer-review process and affiliation with Oxford University Press, Past & Present ensures that published works contribute meaningfully to academic discourse. Researchers value its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, allowing contributions that draw from anthropology, sociology, and political science to enrich historical narratives.

The journal's scope encompasses a broad spectrum of historical periods and regions, with a particular emphasis on long-term social changes and power structures. Its impact factor of 0.714, as reported in Clarivate Journal Citation Reports for 2022, underscores its influence within the field. Articles in Past & Present often garner citations from diverse disciplines, highlighting the journal's role in fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue. For scholars seeking visibility, the journal's hybrid open access model provides options to maximize reach without compromising quality.

Publishing in Past & Present offers more than academic prestige; it connects researchers to a global network of historians. The editorial board, comprising leading experts, guides submissions toward excellence. Whether analyzing medieval economies or modern revolutions, contributors find a receptive audience. To explore opportunities in historical academia, consider browsing history jobs for career advancement alongside your publications.

Overview & History

Past & Present was founded in 1952 by a group of British historians aiming to revitalize the study of history through social and economic lenses. Initially focused on countering traditional political narratives, it quickly gained prominence for its bold, revisionist articles. Over decades, the journal has published seminal works that have shaped historiographical debates, from studies on peasant revolts to explorations of imperialism's legacies.

Under Oxford University Press since its inception, Past & Present maintains a quarterly publication schedule, releasing issues that blend empirical rigor with theoretical innovation. Its evolution reflects broader shifts in academia, incorporating global perspectives and digital humanities methods. Today, it remains a go-to venue for historians challenging established views, with a circulation that reaches thousands of institutions worldwide.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Past & Present welcomes submissions on diverse historical themes, prioritizing those with wide intellectual appeal. The journal encourages articles that integrate social history with other fields, avoiding narrow specialist topics unless they offer broader insights.

Key Journal Metrics

Past & Present's metrics reflect its steady influence in history scholarship. Data is sourced from reliable databases like Clarivate and Scopus.

Indexing and Abstracting

Past & Present is indexed in major databases, ensuring discoverability. It appears in Web of Science, Scopus, and Historical Abstracts, facilitating citations and accessibility for researchers worldwide. Humanities Index and JSTOR provide archival access, while DOAJ lists its open access content where applicable.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Past & Present offers subscription-based access with optional open access. Article Processing Charges (APCs) for gold open access are approximately £3,200 (excluding taxes), covering production and dissemination. No fees apply for subscription publications, making it accessible for funded and unfunded researchers alike. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies it as green for self-archiving.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via the Oxford University Press online portal. Authors should prepare manuscripts of 8,000-12,000 words, following Chicago style with footnotes. Anonymized reviews ensure fairness. Key guidelines include original research, clear abstracts, and relevance to the journal's interdisciplinary focus. Revisions are common, with decisions typically within 6-9 months.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board features distinguished historians from institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and Yale. Editor-in-Chief Alexandra Walsham specializes in early modern religious history, guiding the journal's direction. Other members bring expertise in gender history, environmental studies, and non-Western perspectives, ensuring diverse oversight.

Why Publish in Past & Present?

Publishing here elevates a researcher's profile, with articles often cited in policy and educational contexts. The journal's prestige aids tenure and grant applications. Its global readership amplifies impact, while editorial support refines arguments for maximum clarity and influence.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Past & Present compares favorably with peers in scope and metrics.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with the journal's emphasis on originality and breadth. Engage with recent issues for trends, and seek feedback before submitting. Use academic calendar resources to time your application. Network via Rate My Professor for insights from peers.