About the Journal

Focus and Scope

The Waterloo Historical Review is an annual, peer-reviewed journal produced by undergraduate students at the University of Waterloo. Dedicated to promoting academic rigour and scholarly discussion, this journal aims to highlight the diverse research contributions made by undergraduate students in the field of history. The Review offers a platform for undergraduates to publish original research, engage critically with historical scholarship, and contribute to ongoing historical debates.

The journal's scope encompasses a wide range of historical topics, including, but not limited to, social, political, cultural, and economic histories, both within Canada and across global contexts. We particularly encourage submissions that engage with interdisciplinary methodologies, incorporate marginalized voices, or challenge dominant historical narratives. By offering students the opportunity to engage in peer review, the Waterloo Historical Review fosters academic growth and promotes a deeper understanding of the historical discipline.

Open Access Policy

In keeping with the principle that scholarly work should be accessible to all, the Waterloo Historical Review adheres to an open-access policy. All journal articles are made available online immediately upon publication, ensuring that researchers, students, and the public can access and engage with historical scholarship without barriers. This commitment to open access is intended to support a more equitable and widespread dissemination of knowledge, contributing to the global exchange of ideas and research in the historical field.

Editing Processes 

The Waterloo Historical Review upholds rigorous academic standards through a meticulous double-blind editing and review process. Submissions are anonymized and undergo an initial round of comprehensive edits by the editorial team, focusing on clarity, structure, and adherence to scholarly conventions. The papers are then sent to subject-matter experts and scholars for a blind peer-review process. This ensures unbiased feedback and maintains the integrity of the publication. Reviewers assess the work's originality, analytical depth, and contribution to historical scholarship, as well as the depth and quality of sources.

Authors receive this feedback, enabling revisions that enhance the quality of the final publication before it is formatted and published. 

Sponsors

The Waterloo Historical Review is proudly sponsored by the University of Waterloo History Department and the University of Waterloo History Society. These organizations provide the financial and institutional support necessary to maintain the journal's production and ensure the continued promotion of undergraduate historical research.