Lawrence B. A. Hatter

Lawrence B.A. Hatter is an Associate Professor of History and Director of Graduate Studies at Washington State University's Department of History, housed within the College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia (2011) and specializes in diplomatic and legal history focusing on nationality, sovereignty, and Indigenous rights along the Canada-US border. His award-winning monograph Citizens of Convenience (2017) redefined understanding of border dynamics between the U.S. and Canada. Current research involves the Mitchell v. M.N.R. legal case with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, examining historical narratives in Indigenous rights struggles.

• Education: Ph.D., University of Virginia, 2011

Research interests bridge early American and Canadian history, emphasizing transborder legal frameworks and Indigenous sovereignty. His work has been recognized with the Walker Cowan Memorial Prize and ALA's Choice Award. Public engagement includes columns for The Inlander and editorial contributions to major regional newspapers. Media appearances include discussions on historical interpretation and border citizenship.

• Awards: 2016 Walker Cowan Prize | 2017 Choice Outstanding Academic Title

Advocates for collaborative research with Indigenous communities, particularly the Akwesasne Mohawk nation, integrating legal history with contemporary rights advocacy. Active in graduate education leadership, shaping curriculum and research directions in border studies and early national history.