Robert James

Dr Robert James is a Senior Lecturer in Cultural and Social History at the University of Portsmouth, Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences. His research focuses on British leisure habits, maritime cultures, and urban history, particularly in port towns like Portsmouth, Liverpool, and Hull during the 20th century.

• Expertise: Leisure provision/consumption, cinema-going, popular taste theories
• Active in ORCID and Port Towns & Urban Cultures project
• Currently studying public libraries as contested spaces (2024-2028)

His work combines archival analysis with interdisciplinary approaches, examining civic responses to leisure activities and their societal implications.

Recent publications include analyses of naval submarine representation during WWII and studies on football culture. Research outputs demonstrate strong engagement with coastal communities and maritime heritage.