bioghist

Bioghist, short for biographical/historical note, is an archival term used in finding aids to document the biographical and historical context of the creator of the records or the subject of the collection. The note provides essential background information that helps researchers understand who created the materials, the individual or organizational life, major events, and the circumstances surrounding the creation of the records. The bioghist typically covers dates, affiliations, occupations, major life events, and the historical context in which the materials were produced, sometimes including a short chronology and references to related materials. It may be written for individuals, families, organizations, corporate bodies, or other entities that created or are the subject of the records.

In practice, the bioghist is an element of Encoded Archival Description (EAD) finding aids and is usually written in prose. It may appear at the start of the finding aid or within the administrative or descriptive sections, and is intended to be neutral, concise, and free of evaluative language. The content should focus on information relevant to the records themselves, rather than on broad biography, unless directly connected to the materials.

The bioghist is distinct from the scope and contents note, though it may complement it. It helps users interpret the materials and assess their provenance, significance, and potential research value. Archivists may update or revise the bioghist as new information arises or as the finding aid evolves. The element is widely used in archival repositories and is compatible with modern finding aid standards such as EAD and its variants.