Professor Emeritus James Donnelly in collaboration Dr. Andy Bielenberg (University College Cork) recently completed work on a large electronic database that analyzes the political violence of the Irish War of independence (1919-21). The database records the circumstances of the deaths of the 528 persons–British soldiers, policemen belonging to the Royal Irish Constabulary, IRA men or …
Professor emeritus Jan Vansina, one of the world’s foremost historians of Africa, died peacefully in Madison on Wednesday, February 8, 2017. He was surrounded by his wife, Claudine, and his son, Bruno. Diagnosed with lung cancer in the Fall of 2015, Vansina underwent chemotherapy for a few weeks and enjoyed a remission in the summer …
Professor Stern has been selected to receive the Hilldale Award in the Arts and Humanities for 2015-16. Given annually since 1986-87, the Hilldale Awards recognize distinguished career contributions to teaching, research and service. One faculty member is honored in each division. Recipients receive a $7,500 cash prize. Steve will be honored by Chancellor Blank at …
Professor Florence Bernault just guest-edited a special issue of France’s international flagship journal in African Studies, Politique Africaine on the recent events in Gabon (Equatorial Africa). Last June, Omar Bongo Ondimba, the longest serving president of sub-Saharan Africa, died. With him, a much criticized regime of 40 years ended. Or did it? The presidential elections in August 2009 installed …
In honor of the memory of William A. Brown, who passed away recently, a group of his friends, colleagues, and alumni/e have launched a drive to establish the William A. Brown Memorial Lecture Fund. Income from the fund will be used to fund an annual lecture on Islam and Islamic Culture in West African History, …