Established in 1634 and based in the Bodleian Library, the Archives of Oxford University document the University's activities and decisions throughout that time.

This volume showcases fifty-two documents and objects from the University Archives, telling a wide range of intriguing stories about the University. Arranged chronologically, these items deal with the University's relations with governments and monarchs; the effects of war; teaching and student behavior; the University's buildings and institutions; widening access to university education; and the impact the University has had on the city of Oxford and its people. Also documented here are fascinating insights into the University's erstwhile police force, a hidden time capsule, brewing licenses, brawls, and illicit steeplechasing.

The items also often unlock human stories to which we can relate today, opening a window on the individuals (from University, city, or even further afield) whose lives the University has touched, including people who would perhaps not be expected to feature in a history of Oxford University, but whose stories are preserved forever in its magnificent archives.