Over the last twenty years the Journal of Historical Sociology has redefined what historical sociology can be. These essays by internationally distinguished historians, sociologists, anthropologists and geographers bring together the very best of the JHS. Volume 1 focuses on the British state, Volume 2 on the journal’s wider interdisciplinary challenges. * The first in a two-volume anthology representing the best articles published in The Journal of Historical Sociology over the last twenty years. * Includes essays, debates and responses written by internationally distinguished historians, sociologists, anthropologists and geographers as well as by pioneering newer scholars have been influential in challenging and redefining the field of historical sociology. * Spans a range of issues and topics that combine rich empirical scholarship with sophisticated theoretical engagement, bringing together the very best of the JHS. * A collection of essays on state formation from medieval times to the present, focussing mainly on the British state.