Department of Economic History

Economic History uses concepts and theories from the social sciences as a starting point for studying the development of real economies and understanding them in their social, political and cultural contexts.
We are the largest specialist department in the UK, and home to a huge range of expertise from the Middle Ages to the current century, covering every major world economy.
Welcome 2025
We're looking forward to meeting out new students! Here's where to find departmental welcome events and more.
Research Highlights
European Business Cycles and Economic Growth, 1300-2000
What can a long-run analysis of business cycles tell us about economic growth?

The Irish in London
Documenting 200 years as an economic underclass

The Market for Skill: Apprenticeship and Economic Growth in Early Modern England
Patrick Wallis on how apprenticeship shaped the English economy

Programmes, People and Research
Discover the range of our programmes and our research and teaching community
Study Economic History at LSE
We offer a range of programmes from undergraduate to PhD

People
A rich research community of faculty, research students and visiting academics

Research
From pre-industrial economic history to global financial crises

Events and news
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Economic History Events
Public lectures, seminars and workshops hosted by the Department of Economic History

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Economic History Alumni
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