First created as a direct rival to The Illustrated London News, under the guidance of social reformer William Luson Thomas, The Graphic captured authentic scenes across London, the UK and around the world. The sophisticated editorial and notable images within this title combine to make it an impressive, in-depth source for global history. The Graphic reflected mainstream Britain’s attitude to empire and society, and coverage extends across the arts, politics, conflict, rural affairs, science, sports, fashion, music, opera, festivals and royal occasions. 

With many leading artists of the age contributing to the publication, including Luke Fildes, Sidney Sime, Edmund Blampied and Sir Hubert von Herkomer, it is a valuable resource for art, illustration and visual culture. Its writers include George Eliot, Thomas Hardy, Anthony Trollope, H Rider Haggard and H G Wells, creating a huge opportunity for research for students of English literature and creative writing. 

Containing more than 3,500 issues, the magazine archive provides contemporary perspectives on home and global affairs which present unique insights and attitudes, evidence from first hand accounts and images and journalistic commentary through time.

Click here for a moving snapshot of the of The Graphic from 110 years ago.