Victorian historiography

Victorian historiography refers to the way 19th-century British historians studied and interpreted history during Queen Victoria's reign (1837–1901). It emphasizes moral lessons, progress, and the importance of national identity, often framing history as a narrative of Britain’s civilizing mission and moral development. Victorian historians focused on detailed factual accounts and favored a narrative-driven approach, blending scholarly rigor with moral perspectives. Their work laid the foundation for modern history but also reflected the values and biases of their time, such as imperialism and social hierarchy.