Scattered about the Streets: George Thomason's Annotations and Ephemeral Print during the English Revolution

• Published in: Electronic British Library journal Vol. 2023; p. 1
• Main Author: Peacey, Jason
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London British Library 01.01.2024; The British Library
• Subjects: Annotations; British history; Brochures; george thomason; Opinions; Printing industry; thomason tracts; Thomason, George (Bookseller); United Kingdom > UK; England; London England
• ISSN: 1478-0259
• DOI: 10.23636/t1tj-zj59

George Thomason's annotations on pamphlets and newspapers during the English Revolution provide valuable insights into the print culture of the time. His habit of annotating and dating individual items helps historians understand the authors, printers, and publishers of the period. Thomason's annotations also reveal his personal opinions and involvement in London's political and religious politics. He was an avid reader of pamphlets and newspapers, recognizing when new books were repackaged versions of older works and identifying tracts to which authors were responding. Thomason's annotations shed light on the complexity, uncertainty, and power of the press during this period. Additionally, he collected noncommercial print materials, such as tickets, lobby documents, and petitions, which were intended for free distribution and public display. These materials provide insights into the organization of public meetings, petitioning campaigns, and the dissemination of information among influential individuals. Thomason's collection challenges assumptions about the commercial availability of pamphlets and highlights the importance of free and noncommercial print during the English Revolution.