New Books in History Katrina Navickas, "Contested Commons: A History of Protest and Public Space in England" (Reaktion, 2025)
Dec 15, 2025
Katrina Navickas, a Professor of History with a focus on British protest, delves into her book, Contested Commons. She unpacks the evolution of public spaces like Trafalgar Square and Hyde Park, highlighting how protesters have historically claimed these areas against social elites. Navickas connects past movements—from early democracy to contemporary protests—illustrating the ongoing struggle for public access. She also discusses how modern restrictions challenge the right to protest, reflecting on the vital importance of protecting these communal spaces.
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Commons Are Restricted Not Universal
- The commons often appear open but carried strict legal and social limits on access and use.
- Enclosure and urbanisation narrowed access as commons were divided into streets, squares, and building land.
Waste Enabled Enclosure And Empire
- 'Waste' was legally distinct from commons and targeted for enclosure and sale.
- The concept of waste also justified colonial land grabs by portraying territory as empty and available.
Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Displacement In Surrey
- Katrina recounts Surrey landowners forcing Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities off commons onto road verges.
- She cites conflicts between families like the Onslows and county police over aggressive removals.
