Centre for Media History

The Centre for Media History at Aberystwyth University is a new research centre based in the Department of History and Welsh History that recognises and builds on the strength within the University, of research into the history of the mass media both within the Department of History and Welsh History itself, and in other Departments (principally the Department of Theatre, Film and Television Studies).

The purpose of the Centre is threefold:

• To promote the exploration of media in a specifically historical context
• To promote teaching and research in the field of media history
• To publicise and popularise the use of media and media-related sources as a key research tool for a wide range of historical studies.

Aberystwyth’s research expertise in this field is internationally recognised, and the journal Media History is currently based at the University. We also benefit from the vast archival and book resources of the National Library of Wales, based in Aberystwyth, in particular its National Screen and Sound Archive. We see media history in its widest context, from the early modern period (and where possible earlier) to the present day, and encompassing the broadest possible range of media, from print culture, cinema and broadcasting to photography, advertising, etc.