Kevin Dawson

Kevin Dawson is an Associate Professor of History at the University of California, Merced, affiliated with the Department of History & Critical Race and Ethnic Studies within the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts. His work focuses on the History of the Atlantic World, Early American History, African Diaspora, and African American History, with a particular emphasis on aquatic cultural practices among enslaved populations.

Education:

• Ph.D. in History, University of South Carolina (2005)
• M.A. in History, California State University, Fullerton (2000)
• B.A. in History, California State University, Fullerton (1997)

Research Interests: Dawson's research examines the intersection of labor, race, and maritime history, including studies of enslaved ship pilots, swimmers, and divers in the Atlantic World. His work challenges traditional notions of slavery by highlighting the agency and expertise of enslaved individuals in navigational and aquatic roles.

Publications & Awards: His article 'Enslaved Ship Pilots in the Age of Revolutions' (2013) received the Louis Pelzer Memorial Award. He has also written on topics such as aquatic culture in the African diaspora, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to historical inquiry.

Grants & Fellowships:

• 2004-2005 Ford Dissertation Fellow