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History, Global & Political Studies

Department

A History of Excellence

Covering everything from philosophy and economics to history and international studies, the History, Global & Political Studies department helps students challenge assumptions, make connections, and apply historical knowledge to contemporary current issues.

The wide variety of disciplines and majors represented in the department are grounded in research, analysis, critical thinking, and truth seeking. Through these values—as well as through practical learning in discussions, case studies, lectures, and simulations—students develop fresh insights and perspectives that join textbook knowledge with global realities and a Christian worldview.

Not only are the History, Global & Political Studies professors serious about what they teach, they’re serious about incorporating their own personalities in the classroom and encouraging their students to do the same. The faculty create a family atmosphere—hosting movie nights, meals, and badminton tournaments while prompting their students to join in career development opportunities like research groups, the American Studies Program, and Taylor’s chapter of the American Enterprise Institute Council.

Taylor is a campus chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, one of the nation’s premier history fraternities. In addition to enriching students’ intellectual experiences by exposing them to speakers, readings, and community gatherings, membership in Phi Alpha Theta will assist them in gaining admittance to graduate schools and earning job interviews with employers.

Spring semester guest speakers will be announced soon!

See for Yourself

Listen to faculty explain how a History, Global & Political Science degree will prepare you to fulfill your passions and advance God’s kingdom.

Study Abroad in Egypt

Looking to broaden your horizons while in college? Check out this glimpse of a past J-term trip to Egypt.

Halbrook Freedom Lecture Series

The Halbrook Freedom Lecture Series is named for 1967 Taylor alumnus John A. Halbrook. The goal of the lecture series is for every student at Taylor University to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the freedoms and responsibilities afforded to citizens under the U.S. Constitution, and that they will carry that knowledge and understanding into their workplaces, churches, and communities. As part of the lecture series, author, educator, and columnist Arthur C. Brooks spoke to the student body at chapel on October 1, 2021.

Get Outside the Classroom

  • Research Groups: Join department research groups and do firsthand research with your professors and colleagues on topics like human trafficking and surveys and polling.
  • American Enterprise Institute Council: Taylor’s branch of the American Enterprise Institute Council allows students to get involved in a national organization, make professional connections, participate in advanced research projects, and promote political discussions across campus.
  • Internships: History, Global, and Political Studies majors have interned at a wide variety of premier organizations, including the FBI and local, state, and national legislature. Find your career niche in areas like the government, missions, corporate or private businesses, or societal research companies.
  • Study Abroad: Taylor’s History, Global, and Political Studies programs offer opportunities to study global history, economics, politics, and culture overseas. Students interested in studying the Middle East can spend a semester at Jerusalem University. Other places to travel include Latin America, Spain, London, and more. Our students can also work stateside in the heart of Washington D.C. with Best Semester’s American Studies Program.

Faculty Presentations

Check out the links below to hear History, Global, and Political Studies faculty present research and expertise at conferences, societies, and special events.

Talk Title Professor
“He Threw Away His Shot: Hamilton, Dueling, and Political Conflict in America”—Taylor Talks, Homecoming 2020 Liz George
“Queens and Commoners: The Rights and Roles of Women in Ancient Egypt”—Carnegie Lecture Series Kevin Johnson
“Gathering the Pieces: An Iconographic Analysis and Virtual Reconstruction of a New Kingdom Non-Royal Sarcophagus”—University of Memphis Alumni Lecture Kevin Johnson
“What’s in a Name? Using Royal Titularies to Illuminate the Late 19th and Early 20th Dynasties in Egypt”—The Egyptian Study Society Kevin Johnson
“Expressions of Hope in the Future of Democracy”—Taylor MLK Day Celebration Jakob Miller
“The Religious Life of Theodore Roosevelt”—Theodore Roosevelt Association (Indiana Chapter) Ben Wetzel

Department News

13 Taylor Students Awarded Orr Fellowships Thumbnail

13 Taylor Students Awarded Orr Fellowships

Dec 19, 2023

These students represent the largest-ever group of Taylor students offered Orr Fellowships, which are full-time paid positions with Indianapolis companies while building valuable connections with experienced professionals.

Freedom Rides Give Students New Perspectives on Race and Faith Thumbnail

Freedom Rides Give Students New Perspectives on Race and Faith

Aug 10, 2023

These bus trips welcome all students, faculty, and staff to challenge assumptions, make cultural connections, and apply historical knowledge to current issues.

Author, Social Critic Os Guinness to Visit Taylor Thumbnail

Author, Social Critic Os Guinness to Visit Taylor

Apr 17, 2023

Os Guinness will present the 7th annual Halbrook Freedom Lecture at chapel at 10 am on Friday, April 21 in Rediger Chapel/Auditorium.

Faculty & Staff

Profile image of Elizabeth George

Department Chair

Elizabeth George

Department Chair, Associate Professor of History, Global and Political Studies

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Philip Byers

Halbrook Chair of Civic Engagement Elect

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Kevin Johnson

Associate Professor of History & Global Studies

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Tom Jones

Halbrook Distinguished Chair of Civic History and Professor of History Emeritus

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Nicholas Kerton-Johnson

Loy Chair of Political Science, Associate Professor of International Relations

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Jakob Miller

Associate Professor of Political Science

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Scott Moeschberger

Professor of Global Studies, Honors Guild Director

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Carol Sisson

Associate Professor of Education

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Benjamin Wetzel

Associate Professor of History

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April Wood

History, Global, & Political Studies Program Assistant