M.E. Sharpe, an academic and reference publisher based in Armonk, New York, is currently seeking a general editor for an encyclopedia on referenda and initiatives in American history. The two-volume work will explore the roots, development, and current status of the initiative and referendum processes at both the local and state level, from their origin more than a century ago through the present-day. While the exact table of contents will be developed by the general editor, in consultation with the publisher, the encyclopedia, as envisioned will be divided into several parts: 1) general interest articles on the initiative/referenda process itself, both historically and today; 2) the bulk of the encyclopedia will be devoted to articles on specific initiatives and referenda in American history (both the most important and representative ones), exploring the issues, politics, policy implications, and legacy of the referendum or initiative; and 3) each of these articles will be accompanied, where available, with the text of the original referendum or initiative, as well as other supporting documents. The tasks of the editor include developing a table of contents, finding and vetting contributors, assigning articles, and editing for content and style (ME Sharpe provides basic copyediting as well as assistance in organizing the project). The editor we seek must have a PhD in history or political science, with a track record of publishing scholarly work in the field of American political history.

The project will probably take two years to complete. Compensation includes an advance against royalties and standard publishing royalties.

Interested individuals should contact contributing editor James Ciment at James.ciment@ca.rr.com.