Matthew O'Brien

Matthew O'Brien serves as an Instructor of History in the Department of History and Anthropology at Monmouth University, where he teaches undergraduate courses including Western Civilization, War and Peace, and Historical Studies through the 2025 Spring semester. He is concurrently completing his Ph.D. dissertation at Rutgers University on William Trumbull's diplomatic role at the Spanish Habsburg court (1605-1625), examining intersections of confessional identity and international politics in early seventeenth-century Europe.

His academic credentials include:

• Bachelor of Arts in History from Georgetown University
• Master of Arts in History from Fordham University
• Doctor of Philosophy candidate at Rutgers University

Research focuses on seventeenth-century European diplomatic history, particularly English-Spanish relations under the Habsburgs, religious-political dynamics, and court intrigue. His dissertation on William Trumbull provides granular analysis of individual agency in early modern international relations, directly informing his classroom instruction on revolutions, war, and civilizational development.

Scientific recognition and mentorship:

• Awards: None specified
• Advised students: No information provided
• Research grants: No information provided