The Birth of the International Institute for Social History
Establishing the IISG
In 1935, the International Institute for Social History, commonly known as the IISG, was founded in Amsterdam as a pioneering institution dedicated to the collection and preservation of social history documentation. Focused on providing access and promoting research, the IISG was established with a vision to accommodate the burgeoning field of social history.
Visionary Founders
The institute was the brainchild of several influential figures in social history, including historian Johan Huizinga and librarian Jacques Presser, who understood the importance of documenting and studying the lives of ordinary people and social movements. Their efforts led to the creation of a space where academic research could marry public interest.
The Role of IISG in Social History
IISG's Contribution to Research
Over the decades, the IISG has played a critical role in advancing social history research. By offering a vast archive that includes documents, sound records, and various forms of media related to labor movements, social issues, and public activism, the institute serves as an invaluable resource for historians, researchers, and the public alike.
Impact on Global Scholarship
The establishment of the IISG marked a significant shift in how social history was studied. By promoting interdisciplinary approaches and international collaboration, the institute has encouraged scholarship that transcends borders, ensuring that diverse narratives from global social movements are recognized and preserved.
Fun Fact
A Milestone in Archiving
Did you know that the IISG houses over 80 million archival items? This extensive collection makes it one of the largest specialized historical archives in the world, reflecting the rich tapestry of social movements from all corners of the globe!
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Social History
For those interested in deepening their understanding of social history, consider reading “The Making of the English Working Class” by E.P. Thompson or “A People’s History of the United States” by Howard Zinn. These works highlight the importance of ordinary people in shaping history, a key focus of the IISG.
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