Exploring the breadth and complexities of history as a field of study, History in Practice demystifies what historians actually do and the tasks they take on. This study, written by one of the most acute practitioners in the field, examines not only the academic discipline but also engages with the use of historical ideas in the wider world. The new edition features: - A new chapter on history in the digital age, covering the use of information technology in historical practice - Extended coverage of the relationships between history and other disciplines - Fresh material on current trends in the practice of history - Over 35 new illustrations spread throughout the book drawn from around the world This book is essential reading for all students seeking an understanding of history as a discipline. Table of contents List of Illustrations Acknowledgements Note to Readers Introduction 1. History in General 2. Mapping the Discipline of History 3. History in the Humanities 4. History in the Social Sciences 5. The Status of Historical Knowledge 6. Periodisation 7. Public History 8. Historians' Skills 9. History in a Digital Age 10. Trends Endnotes Bibliography Index