British Legal History Conference 2024

The British Legal History Conference is a biennial event that brings together scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts to explore the evolution and impact of legal systems. The 26th edition, themed "Insiders and Outsiders in the History of Law," was hosted by the University of Bristol from July 3 to 6, 2024. This conference was organized by the University of Bristol Law School, a leading institution in legal education and research.

The conference delved into the historical dynamics of inclusion and exclusion within legal frameworks, encouraging participants to reflect on dividing lines drawn in the history of law and on who, or what, is within and without them. Panels and plenaries addressed the theme from various perspectives, examining the roles of insiders—such as lawyers, judges, parliamentarians, and monarchs—and outsiders, including women, outlaws, colonial subjects, and enslaved people. The event also prompted discussions on jurisdictional dividing lines and classificatory rules, including substantive doctrinal boundaries and the borders between legal systems.

The conference featured a diverse program of sessions, including panels and plenaries that addressed the theme from a variety of perspectives. Notable speakers included Professor Gwen Seabourne and Dr. Joanna McCunn, who served as the organizers and were available for contact at blhc-2024@bristol.ac.uk. The event was open to all, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of ideas and research findings.

This conference was particularly relevant for scholars, practitioners, and students interested in the historical development of legal systems and the social dynamics of inclusion and exclusion within them. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, participate in thought-provoking discussions, and network with peers and experts in the field.