Mission
The Royal Historical Commission was founded by royal decree on 22nd July 1834. As outlined in the regulations of its organisational structure established on 1st April 1976, “its task is to research, identify, edit and analyse written sources which are of interest to the history of Belgium, and to publish critical studies relating to these sources, as well as to provide working tools for historians”.
Every year since 1845, the Commission has published a Bulletin which contains scientific contributions it has selected. The Commission “is authorised to publish elsewhere and, in any form deemed appropriate, scientific articles which cannot be included in the report”. It has thus created several series which reflect its publishing policies.
Details of the contents of each series, a summary of the most recent reports and subscription procedures are outlined in the list of publications.
An active part in the field of Belgian history
Whether as a result of the scientific contributions it accepts after review or of the works of its members, the Commission has always played an active part in the field of Belgian history. Its numerous publications are a witness to this fact. With the aid of these examples, it tries to stimulate and guide research by drawing the academic community’s attention to sources which can help create new lines of research in the historical field.
This policy has of course been developed and diversified over the course of time. The help of university professors and archivists within the Commission has always stimulated a spin-off which has been beneficial to all concerned.
