Professor Mary Davis Book Launch- ‘Dona Torr’: Historical Materialism and the Communist Historians

About the book:

DONA TORR helped shape modern Marxist historical perspectives — but her contribution has remained largely invisible. A founding member of the Communist Party of Great Britain, she played a decisive role in directing the Communist Party Historians’ Group, whose members’ work transformed the study of British history.

Drawing on newly catalogued material from the Marx Memorial Library, MARY DAVIS reveals Torr’s intellectual influence through her articles, briefing notes, letters, critiques and unpublished research. These writings show her active engagement in major debates on class, revolution and historical method.

This book offers the first account of Torr’s life and work, highlighting her rightful place at the centre of Marxist historiography and her enduring importance for historians and political activists alike.

About Mary Davis:

Professor of Labour History. Chair of Marx Memorial Library & Workers School

Date: Thursday 28th May 2026

Location: WCML annex

Start time: 6.30pm

Registration is free

Followed by a drinks reception