Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the first comprehensive study of the historical development of archives and archivists in twentieth-century England. It lays the foundations for understanding how and why the modern archives and records management profession developed in England. The book identifies and highlights the contributions made by many of the fascinating individuals who established archives services and it examines the development of professional practice. Although it focuses on the twentieth century, developments are traced from the Public Record Office Act 1838, the commencement of building of the Public Record Office (PRO) in 1851, the establishment of the Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts (HMC) in 1869, and other key nineteenth-century events. The book argues therefore a significant new contribution to the literature of historical studies of archives and archivists in English speaking nations. It concludes with the formation of The National Archives in 2003.