Bio
Robert Karl is a historian of modern Latin America and the Caribbean. His book Forgotten Peace: Reform, Violence, and the Making of Contemporary Colombia (California; Spanish translation Librería Lerner) is a critical reference point in academic and public debates in both Colombia and the United States about Colombia’s peace process.
Professor Karl is passionate about helping students learn how to apply historical thinking to real-life situations. His interest in bringing digital methodologies to teaching, research, and storytelling aligns with Minerva’s innovative approach to the study of history. Karl teaches Historical Forces courses on global history, public and applied history, the craft of historical research, and comparative history; as well as tutorials on topics including digital humanities; migration & borders; and women, peace, and security. He was also involved with the establishment of Minerva's Interdisciplinary Digital Practices minor. He holds a Ph.D. in History from Harvard University and a B.A. from Dartmouth College.
Professor Karl is passionate about helping students learn how to apply historical methodologies to real-life situations. His interest in bringing digital methodologies to teaching, research, and storytelling aligns with Minerva’s innovative approach to the study of history. Karl teaches Historical Forces courses on global history, public and applied history, the craft of historical research, and comparative history; as well as tutorials on topics including digital humanities; migration and borders; and women, peace, and security.
Accomplishments
- Previously held teaching and research positions at Princeton University, Harvard University, and the Institute for Advanced Study
- Has served as an expert country-conditions witness for Colombian asylum seekers in over 100 cases