Join us for this special episode of Bright Past, Brilliant Future, where we celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Jim Shields, a distinguished scholar of French politics and modern history at Aston University. This episode marks the second anniversary of his passing and brings together former colleagues, students, and friends to reflect on his remarkable career and lasting impact.
Who was Professor Jim Shields?
Jim Shields was a dedicated educator, mentor and internationally-recognised expert on French politics. As Aston University’s last professor of French and its first professor of history, he played a key role in shaping the institution’s academic landscape. His influential book The Extreme Right in France established him as a leading authority in the field, and his insights were regularly sought by global media outlets including the BBC, CNN and Le Monde.
In this episode, host Dr Brian Sudlow welcomes esteemed guests, including Professor Pamela Moores (Aston University), Professor Alistair Cole (Institut de sciences politiques, Lyon), Professor Jeremy Ahearne (University of Warwick), Dr Craig Blunt (University of Birmingham) and Professor Stephen Forcer (University of Glasgow).
Memories from those who knew him best, highlighting his rigorous academic standards, charismatic teaching style, and deep commitment to mentoring students.
Jim’s love of football – from his Scottish roots to the university playing fields, where he was both a fierce competitor and a supportive teammate.
His outstanding teaching, which earned him the Warwick Award for Teaching Excellence, and his profound influence on the next generation of scholars.
📢 Watch now to learn more about the incredible life and contributions of Professor Jim Shields.
00:00 - Introduction by Brian Sudlow
00:23 - Remembering Professor Jim Shields
00:56 - Jim's Aston University and Warwick Years
03:06 - Jim's Scottish Roots & Early Life
08:35 - From Literature to Politics: Jim’s Shift in Focus
09:43 - The Birth of a Political Scholar
14:03 - Jim’s Groundbreaking Book on the Far Right
16:16 - His Perfectionism & Work Ethic
20:13 - Jim’s Teaching Style & Impact on Students
24:14 - Student Memories: Craig & Stephen Reflect
30:45 - Jim’s Passion for Football & Student Matches
33:48 - Jim’s Return to Aston & Academic Priorities
36:18 - The 2013 Inaugural Lecture
40:00 - Jim’s Media Presence & Public Influence
45:22 - The Importance of Charismatic Teaching
49:38 - Jim’s Breadth of Expertise & Cross-Disciplinary Work
52:29 - Jim’s Final Years & Retirement
54:39 - Closing Thoughts & Tribute
56:49 - Final Thanks & Farewell
Find out more about history at Aston University:
👉 https://www.aston.ac.uk/study/courses/history-ba
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