Geography And History: Bridging The Divide

Description:
Geography and History is the first book for more than a century to examine comprehensively the interdependence of the two disciplines. Alan Baker, an internationally honoured historical geographer, focuses upon the work of North American, British and French historians and geographers but takes a global and interdisciplinary perspective upon the theory and practice of historical geography and geographical history. He analyses the views of historians on the relationship of their discipline to geography, and geographers on the relationship of theirs to history. He considers in turn locational geographies and spatial histories, environmental geographies and histories, landscape geographies and histories, and regional geographies and histories. Seeking to bridge the 'Great Divide' between history and geography, Dr Baker identifies some basic principles relating historical geography not only to history but also to geography, a reworking which signifies a 'new beginning' for this scholarly hybrid.

Review:
'In this erudite study, Alan Baker makes a cogent case for the interdependence of geography and history ... The fruits of extensive reading, which has been international in scope, are evident in a bibliography of over 1100 items ... This book is a true tour de force. It will be of lasting value as a work of reference for advanced students and researchers.' Geography

Table of Contents:
Preface; 1. On the relations of history and geography; 2. Locational geographies and histories; 3. Environmental geographies and histories; 4. Landscape geographies and histories; 5. Regional geographies and histories; 6. Reflections; Bibliography; Index.

Author Biography:
Alan Baker is an internationally renowned historical geographer who in 1998 was honoured by France as a Chevalier dans l'Order des Palmes Academiques for his contribution to the field.