One of the strengths of the HA is our broad interest in all areas of history. So many history themes and narratives focus on the big issues, but for many of us, history starts in the local. That is why we introduced Local History and Community Month for each May – it is an opportunity to promote, highlight and celebrate the local history that is around us at all times.

For 2024 our Student oracy competition The Great Debate had the question ‘Which historical place or person from your local area deserves greater recognition?’ and for 2025 the question was 'How can your local history tell a global story?'

In these debates young people around the UK researched and presented their thoughts on how to answer these questions. The range of stories, information and research is remarkable and to celebrate the work of these young historians and the breadth or local history that we have in the UK we have published some of those stories here.

The students have introduced their choice in their own style and they have also told the story in their own way; we have proofed their written versions but only lightly edited them to preserve their own voices and arguments.
If you gave a talk for the Great Debate or know of someone who did and they have not submitted their talk for publication but would like to contact Paula.kitching@history.org.uk.