Akil A. Cornelius Jr.

Akil A. Cornelius Jr. is an Assistant Professor (Fixed-Term) in the Department of History at Michigan State University. He is affiliated with the College of Social Science and holds office hours Tu/Th 10-11:30 A.M. and M/W/F 12:30–3 P.M. in Old Horticulture 208A. His research focuses on precolonial African societies, particularly themes of warfare, technological innovation, religiosity, and violence in Southern and broader African contexts.

Education:

• B.A. in Political Science, Washington College
• M.A. in Peace & Conflict Studies, Norwich University
• Ph.D. in African History, Michigan State University

Research Interests:

• Cultural history of precolonial Africa
• Technological change and its societal impacts
• Warfare and state formation in Southern Africa
• Religious practices and their role in precolonial conflicts

Professional Background: Prior to academia, Cornelius worked as a military and national security analyst for the U.S. Intelligence Community, including roles at the Department of Defense, Department of State, and National Counterterrorism Center.

Courses Taught:

• HST 201: Historical Methods & Skills
• HST 364: South Africa: From Shaka Zulu to Mandela