Why write a history of intellectual property? Looking back at the publication of the Histoire de la propriété intellectuelle, we look at the methodological issues involved in such a history, both in terms of defining the subject and of periodisation. Other contributions of such a history are highlighted, whether in terms of the controversial nature of the subject or the different scales involved in its development. Thanks to the possibilities and alternatives that it sheds light on, the history of intellectual property is presented as a political lever for a future to be built.