Morris Rossabi

Morris Rossabi is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of East Asian Languages & Cultures at Columbia University. He specializes in the history of China, Central Asia, and Inner Asia, with a focus on Mongol Empire studies. Rossabi holds a PhD from Columbia University (1970) and has taught courses on Mongol history and East Asian studies. His research spans medieval and modern Asian history, including projects on 20th- and 21st-century Mongolia, resulting in publications like Socialist Devotees and Dissenters and The Practice of Buddhism in Kharkhorin.

He has authored or edited 25 books, including The Mongols and Global History and Modern Mongolia, and contributed to exhibitions at major museums. Notable recognitions include an honorary doctorate from the National University of Mongolia (2008–2009) and a Certificate of Merit from the Mongolian Embassy (2021). Rossabi has served on advisory boards for the Soros Foundation and the Project on Central Eurasia, and chairs the Arts and Culture Committee of the Soros Foundation.

• Research Highlights: Mongol Empire, modern Mongolia’s political transitions, Silk Road networks.
• Publications: Over 25 books and numerous articles, emphasizing cross-cultural dynamics in Asian history.
• Grants & Collaborations: Co-led oral history projects in Mongolia; advised on cultural heritage initiatives.

His work bridges academic scholarship with public outreach, including museum collaborations and international advisory roles.