Since 2013, this website has provided a space for the History of Parliament team and external authors to publish groundbreaking research in the field of parliamentary history.
But that is not all; here you can also find articles on local and community history, social and cultural history, personal stories from the past, and more. Because the history of Parliament touches all aspects of the past, in the United Kingdom and beyond!
Browse our Archive
Explore our vast collection of online articles here, arranged by theme, period, Prime Minister, Monarch or research collection:
Understanding Parliament
How does Parliament work, and how has it changed throughout history? Our series of explanatory articles will help you find out more about the unique history of the institution.
What is the difference between the House of Commons and House of Lords? Find out about their distinctive functions and how their powers have changed over time.
Find out about who the presiding officers of both Houses are and how their roles have developed since the 13th century.
How do we know what has been debated or discussed in each chamber? From Parliament Rolls to Hansard, find out about the methods in which Parliament has been reported and recorded throughout history.
Although now the right of every British citizen, voting for your MP was historically a luxury. Find out more about the landmark legislation that decided who could vote in parliamentary elections since its inception.
Despite being the first document which sought to limit royal authority, there have been multiple key documents throughout British history that have shaped its constitution.
Find out about the role responsible for ceremonial events, most famously the State Opening of Parliament.
Podcasts
Oral History Podcast
Tales from the Green Benches
What does it feel like to be in the House of Commons chamber?
Hosts Dr Emma Peplow and Dr Alex Lock delve into the History of Parliament’s Oral History archive of interviews with former MPs, gathering reflections from those who have sat on those green benches allowing a true insider’s view into life as a Member of Parliament.
We also have lots of video content over on Youtube, Instagram and TikTok, exploring all parts of parliamentary history!
School Resources
Explore our Key Stage 3 resources on the Reformation, political reform in the eighteenth and nineteenth century, and Josiah Wedgwood and politics in the 1930s
Our Work
To find out more about the History of Parliament’s current research and previous publications, click here
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