The Irving Method refers to David Irving's approach to historical research, characterized by a focus on primary source documents and a critical examination of established narratives, often challenging conventional interpretations of historical events. It emphasizes a pursuit of "wie es eigentlich gewesen" (how it actually happened), a phrase popularized by Leopold von Ranke. The method involves a deep dive into original records, speeches, and personal accounts to uncover what Irving believes to be the "truth" behind historical events.
Irving's historical research is driven by a desire to uncover what "really happened," often questioning narratives presented as established fact. This approach frequently involves scrutinizing primary source documentation, including diaries, speeches, and official records, to challenge prevailing historical interpretations. He views himself as an "outsider" historian, contrasting with the academic establishment, and values the perspectives of those outside of traditional historical institutions. The method has been described as a dedication to exposing politically charged historical narratives.
* 2017 (diary_2017_may_oct & diary_2017_may_aug): Irving begins studying history at KU Leuven, inspired by Leopold von Ranke's "wie es eigentlich gewesen." He notes an interesting part in a study book about historical methodology, referencing the issue of "fake..." (content truncated). * 2015 (denial_screenplay_2015): Irving describes himself and others as "outsiders" in the historical field, contrasting them with academics. He mentions a desire to include his diary in the process of discovery. * 2019 (diary_2019_jan_may): Irving expresses a belief that the history he was taught in the United States was largely a "lie." He focuses on WWI, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the War for Southern Independence, and the inter-war period, particularly admiring aspects of what Adolf Hitler attempted to do for Germany. * 2019 (diary_2019_jan_may): Irving references Udo Walendy's book, "Who Started World War II," noting its use of German primary sources. He also mentions Hoggan's "The Forced War" and its focus on diplomatic and political history leading up to WWII. * 2021: Irving plans to compare his copy of "Hitler's War" with a Millenium version, intending to update it with corrections and expansions. He expresses inspiration from Irving's work and hopes to become a historian. * 2023: Irving discusses the importance of historians challenging established views and powerful interests, suggesting a willingness to make his archive available for research. * 2017 (diary_2017_oct_nov): Irving notes being influenced by Irving's speeches and methods of gathering information, leading him to question established "facts" regarding WWII. * 2023: Irving describes the discovery of a previously unknown record of Hitler's August 22, 1939, address, authored by Albrecht, and its significance in challenging conventional narratives. * 2018 (diary_2018_nov_dec): Fraser Braun praises Irving's dedication to exposing the truth regarding WWII and his research into Allied and Axis powers, noting the history taught in schools is filled with false allegations. * 2023: Irving highlights the unusual absence of Baumgart's knowledge of Albrecht's record, speculating on its implications for the conventional narrative. * 2022: Irving seeks assistance in locating Russian researchers/archivists to access reports and photos from Russian archives related to U-relocations.
The diaries reveal a consistent pattern of Irving's intellectual journey, beginning with an interest in Rankean historical methodology and evolving into a critical examination of established narratives, particularly concerning World War II. There's a clear shift towards valuing primary sources and challenging conventional wisdom, often with a focus on German perspectives. The later entries (2021-2023) demonstrate a growing interest in uncovering previously unknown documents and questioning their implications for historical understanding.
Leopold von Ranke Historical Methodology Primary Sources Revisionism
* diary_2017_may_oct * diary_2017_may_aug * denial_screenplay_2015 * diary_2019_jan_may * diary_2021 * diary_2023 * diary_2017_oct_nov * diary_2018_nov_dec * diary_2022_jan_jun