English Economic History: Select Documents

"English Economic History: Select Documents" by A.E. Bland, P.A. Brown, and R.H. Tawney is a historical compilation of primary documents written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide educators and students with selected documents that illustrate key aspects of English economic history from the Norman Conquest to the repeal of the Corn Laws. It serves as a resource for understanding the socio-economic landscape through the eyes of contemporary figures, emphasizing the evolution of economic systems in England. The opening of the volume introduces the book's purpose and rationale, addressing the increasing interest in economic history among university students and the lack of accessible documents in one compendium. The editors explain their selection process, highlighting an intention to include influential texts that provide insights into the economic landscape. They emphasize the challenge of covering extensive periods and topics comprehensively while urging readers to consider the chronology and context of each document. The introduction sets the stage for an informative examination of English economic developments, aiming to enrich understanding and academic discourse in the field.