Economic History (university degree)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about the field of Economic History, especially at the PhD level at institutions like Oxbridge:

Time Periods Covered:

• Economic History can delve into various time periods, often spanning from ancient economies to contemporary economic issues. At the PhD level, the focus can be quite broad, covering:
  • Ancient and Medieval Economies: Studies might include the economic systems of ancient civilizations like Rome, Greece, and medieval Europe.
  • Early Modern Period: This includes the economic transformations during the Renaissance, the Industrial Revolution, and the development of global trade networks.
  • Modern and Contemporary Economies: Analysis of economic developments from the 19th century to the present, including the Great Depression, post-World War II economic policies, and recent financial crises.

Geographical Focus:

• Specialist Economists in Economic History might focus on various regions, but there are areas that are less studied due to a lack of critical mass of data:
  • Well-Studied Regions: Europe, North America, and parts of Asia (especially China and Japan) are often well-documented and studied extensively.
  • Less Studied Regions: Some regions might be less covered due to data scarcity, including:
  • Sub-Saharan Africa: Limited historical economic data can make comprehensive studies challenging.
  • Certain Parts of Latin America: While some areas are well-studied, others might lack extensive historical economic records.
  • Oceania: Economic history of regions like the Pacific Islands might not have as much data available for in-depth study.

Data Availability:

• The availability of data is crucial for economic historians. Regions with extensive archival records, trade documents, and economic data are more likely to be studied in depth. Conversely, regions with sparse historical records might be less frequently analyzed.

This broad overview should give you a sense of the scope and focus areas within the field of Economic History at the PhD level, particularly at prestigious institutions like Oxbridge.

Sources: Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms, Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms, 8 Reflections on Leaving IB After a Decade, Macro HF Interviews: Paul Tudor Jones, Louis Bacon and Bruce Kovner, Cross-Atlantic Investment Shift | The Daily Peel | 7/12/2023