Crossing Boundaries : Jan Lucassen on the historian's craft in labour history

This interview with Dutch historian Jan Lucassen explores his intellectual journey from student activism to developing analytical frameworks that challenge both Marxist orthodoxy and Western‑centric historiography. Lucassen discusses his approach to writing accessible yet rigorous history, shaped by the principle of explaining academic work to thinking citizens regardless of their educational background. The conversation examines his departure from Marxist analysis, leading to the development of alternative methodological approaches in labour history. Lucassen reflects on his role in building the research department at the International Institute of Social History in Amsterdam, creating an international scholarly community focused on comparative analysis across different geographical and temporal contexts. The interview addresses contemporary concerns about artificial intelligence and automation in relation to historical patterns of technological change and labour displacement. The conversation concludes with reflections on mentoring doctoral students and the collaborative nature of historical research.