Eric C. Rath

Eric C. Rath is a Professor in the Department of History at the University of Kansas, specializing in premodern Japanese history with a focus on traditional food culture, social and cultural history, and performing arts. He teaches courses like 'History of Sushi' and 'Beer, Sake, and Tea: Beverages in Japanese History.'

• Current research includes a history of sake and its cultural impact
• Editorial member of Gastronomica: The Journal for Food Studies

Research interests center on the invention of tradition in Japanese foodways, examining how dietary practices and performing arts have shaped national identity. His work restores contingency and heterogeneity to narratives usually framed as hegemonic.

• Examines historical roots of 'tradition' in state ideology
• Explores sake's role in izakaya culture since the 14th century

Publications include books on sushi and Japanese cuisines, and articles analyzing topics like medieval cooking practices, interwar Tokyo dining, and culinary globalization. His work bridges food studies, historical gastronomy, and cultural anthropology.