About

I’m Dr Lisa Berry-Waite; a historian, writer, and heritage professional.

I was recently listed as one of BBC HistoryExtra’s 30 historians under 30 and am passionate about bringing history to life. I’ve always been fascinated with history, from visiting National Trust properties growing up to becoming obsessed with Downton Abbey as a teen. 

I hold a PhD in History from the University of Exeter and specialise in political and gender history. My writing has featured in The Conversation and The Guardian, as well as numerous scholarly journals and book chapters. I’ve also appeared as a guest speaker on podcasts and radio, and have spoken at a range of events and conferences.

I work as the Research and Engagement Assistant Manager for the UK Parliament’s Heritage Collections. I’ve previously worked as a Records Specialist at The National Archives UK, and have held various positions in local museums and archives. 

I’m also an elected Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and Joint Blog Editor for the Women’s History Network. 

Interested in working with me?

Dr Lisa Berry-Waite is a historian of British women and politics

I specialise in:

  • 19th and 20th century Britain

  • Elections and parliament

  • The interwar period

  • Women and politics

  • Suffrage and feminism

  • Women candidates/MPs

I’m currently working on my forthcoming book

A Woman MP?: From Parliamentary Candidates to Westminster Representatives, 1918-1939, which will be published by Routledge. 

At just 27 words long, the 1918 Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act revolutionised Westminster, enabling women over the age of 21 to stand for parliament. A Woman MP? tells the story of what happened next.

Coming soon.

Women Labour MPs 1929 (Wikimedia Commons)

Women Labour MPs elected in the 1929 General Election, Wikimedia Commons