The History of Parliament

The History of Parliament is one of the great enduring monuments of twentieth-century historical research and one of the most comprehensive prosopographical projects ever undertaken. These five volumes, devoted to the years 1690-1715, provide a unique research tool comprising an introductory survey, detailed accounts of constituencies, and biographies of all members of the House of Commons during this period. The volumes detail a crucial stage in the evolution of Parliament, during which the constitutional position of the Commons was transformed by the revolution in public finance, leading to more frequent and longer sessions, and an increase in business. At the same time the electoral system was undergoing significant changes, in response to the frenetic political activity that characterised this 'first age of party'. Embodying exhaustive original research, these volumes stand as a unique contribution to the political and social history of Britain during the Augustan period.