David Irving frequently utilized microfilm archives for his historical research, particularly concerning World War II and related figures like Hitler, Churchill, and Mussolini. This practice involved accessing and analyzing documents preserved on microfilm, often from institutions like the US National Archives and Library of Congress. The preservation and potential relocation of these materials were also a recurring concern.
Irving’s research heavily relied on primary source materials, and microfilm provided access to a vast collection of documents. He often sought to compare information found on microfilm with other sources, sometimes questioning the conventional narratives presented. The management and potential digitization of these microfilm collections also involved collaboration with archivists and researchers.
* 2017: A genealogical program featured Dr. Glyn’s participation in the Himmler post-mortem examination, corroborated by Imperial War Museum records found on microfilm. ([Source: diary_2017_may_oct]) * 2019: Irving noted a general distrust of indoctrination and a growing admiration for Hitler's actions, stemming from in-depth study of source documents. ([Source: diary_2019_jan_may]) * 2022: Irving authorized the transfer of historical papers and microfilm copies to Swedish archives, retaining original microfilms for future memoir writing. Lars-Erik Hansen was tasked with supervising the work and receiving an index. ([Source: diary_2022_jan_jun]) * 2022: Arthur Winters mentioned purchasing microfilm copies provided by Irving, anticipating royalties from Irving’s publications. ([Source: diary_2022_jan_jun]) * 2023: A previously unknown record of Hitler’s August 22, 1939 address, authored by Albrecht, was referenced, raising questions about its absence from the conventional historical record. Richter had permission to photocopy these documents. ([Source: diary_2023]) * 2023: Irving expressed interest in Mussolini’s unredacted diary, noting its unusual lack of redaction compared to other archives. ([Source: diary_2023]) * 2023: Irving mentioned a release of JFK assassination documents, though he doubted their claims. ([Source: diary_2017_oct_nov]) * 2024: Discussions involved the Dutch Auschwitz Committee and compensation for Jewish survivors, referencing documents related to the campaign. ([Source: emails_2023_2024])
Irving’s reliance on microfilm highlights his commitment to primary source research. The recurring theme of discrepancies between microfilm records and established narratives suggests a critical approach to historical interpretation. The concerns about the location and preservation of these microfilms, particularly the original ones, underscore their importance to his ongoing work. The reference to Albrecht’s diary record and its subsequent disappearance suggests a deliberate suppression of information.
Archival Practices Historical Research Methodology Hitler's Speeches Churchill's War Goebbels
* diary_2017_may_oct * diary_2019_jan_may * diary_2022_jan_jun * diary_2023 * diary_2017_oct_nov * emails_2023_2024 * diary_2021