Kenneth L. Hanson

Kenneth L. Hanson serves as Associate Professor in the Department of History at the University of Central Florida and coordinates the Judaic Studies Program. His academic career spans over three decades with significant contributions to the study of ancient Jewish texts and traditions.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Judaic Studies, University of Texas at Austin (1991)

Dr. Hanson's research focuses on the Dead Sea Scrolls, Judaism of late antiquity, Jewish history and culture, Hebrew Bible interpretation, and Kabbalah. His scholarly approach bridges historical analysis with spiritual interpretation, making complex ancient texts accessible to contemporary audiences. He has published extensively on Qumran literature and Jewish mystical traditions, with his work featured in the 2007 History Channel documentary 'Banned from the Bible II'.

His publications from 1997-2012 demonstrate an evolving scholarly trajectory: early works like 'Dead Sea Scrolls: The Untold Story' established foundational research on Qumran manuscripts, while later publications including 'The Eagle & the Bible' expanded into biblical influence on Western political thought. Collectively, his books reveal deep engagement with textual criticism, historical context, and the enduring relevance of ancient Jewish wisdom traditions.

Dr. Hanson actively teaches courses such as Jewish People in Antiquity and Dead Sea Scrolls, and maintains a robust public presence through lectures and media appearances.