A CRJ50 left engine; with a surging history; began surging after takeoff. An emergency was declared and the aircraft returned to land.

Narrative

We pushed from the gate on time and taxied to the runway for departure. No abnormalities were detected during engine start or during pre-takeoff checks. After takeoff and during the climb we could hear a sound and feel the aircraft yawing right and left. Scanning the engine instruments we noticed the left (number 1) engine was surging. Fuel flow was increasing and decreasing; as were the N1 and N2 fans. ITT was also fluctuating. Fortunately no limitations were exceeded. I informed First Officer; the flying pilot; that we needed to return. I then called Departure and informed them of our need to return due to an engine issue. I declared an emergency and requested our takeoff runway. During our return; the number 1 engine began to operate normally. We landed on the runway and taxied to the gate. I amended the release with Dispatch and informed Maintenance of our situation and gate info. Maintenance informed me that this aircraft 'has a history' with the speed switches. While engine issues are sometime unavoidable; I would like to comment on the new checklist. Our total flight time from takeoff to landing was twelve minutes. The new checklist reduced our workload significantly allowing us to ensure a safe arrival.