Vanderbilt University has a rich history of excellence in historical scholarship, thanks to its distinguished faculty. These scholars have made significant contributions to the field, publishing groundbreaking research, teaching generations of students, and shaping the future of historical thinking.
Pioneering Research and Thought Leadership
Vanderbilt history faculty have a long tradition of groundbreaking research that has challenged conventional wisdom and pushed the boundaries of historical knowledge.
- Professor Martin Sherwin won the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award for his work on the development of the atomic bomb.
- Professor David Brion Davis is considered one of the foremost authorities on slavery and its legacy.
- Professor Elizabeth Cobbs is a leading expert on the American Revolution and its aftermath.
Excellence in Teaching
Vanderbilt’s history faculty is equally renowned for its exceptional teaching. They engage students in vibrant discussions, foster critical thinking skills, and inspire a passion for history.
- Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw is a prominent scholar of race and gender who has been recognized for her innovative teaching methods.
- Professor James McPherson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian who has taught at Vanderbilt for over 50 years and is known for his charismatic lectures.
- Professor Catherine Clinton has received numerous teaching awards and is known for her engaging storytelling abilities.
Shaping the Future of Historical Inquiry
Vanderbilt history faculty are actively involved in shaping the future of historical inquiry through their leadership in professional organizations and research initiatives.
- Professor John Janzen is the past president of the American Historical Association.
- Professor Robin Kelley is a founder of the African American Intellectual History Society.
- Professor Nancy MacLean is a leader in the field of digital history and has developed new tools for historical research.
Key Initiatives and Collaborations
Vanderbilt history faculty are engaged in a wide range of initiatives and collaborations that are transforming historical scholarship.
- The Center for the Study of the American South is a hub for research and teaching on the history of the American South.
- The Digital History Lab is a state-of-the-art facility that provides students and researchers with access to cutting-edge digital tools for historical analysis.
- The Vanderbilt-Tübingen Collaborative is a partnership between Vanderbilt and the University of Tübingen in Germany that fosters research collaboration and student exchange.
Benefits for Students and the Field
Vanderbilt’s exceptional history faculty provide numerous benefits for students and the field of history as a whole.
- Direct access to leading scholars: Students have the opportunity to engage with renowned historians who are shaping the field.
- Cutting-edge research opportunities: Students can participate in research projects that push the boundaries of historical knowledge.
- Preparation for future careers: Vanderbilt history graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, law, journalism, and other fields that require strong analytical and writing skills.
- Advancement of historical knowledge: Vanderbilt history faculty continue to produce groundbreaking research and innovative teaching methods that advance our understanding of the past and inform our present.
By the Numbers
- Vanderbilt University is ranked #13 in history by U.S. News & World Report.
- The Vanderbilt history department has over 30 full-time faculty members.
- Vanderbilt history faculty have published over 1,000 books and articles in the past decade.
- Vanderbilt history graduates have gone on to successful careers in academia, law, journalism, and other fields.
Effective Strategies
- Collaborate with leading scholars: Reach out to Vanderbilt history faculty to discuss research interests, explore potential collaborations, and learn from their expertise.
- Attend lectures and workshops: Vanderbilt hosts a variety of lectures, workshops, and conferences featuring renowned historians. Attend these events to stay informed about the latest research and network with other scholars.
- Join student organizations: Vanderbilt has several student organizations related to history, such as the History Club
