About
Roark Atkinson is an Associate Professor of History in the School of Humanities and Global Studies at Ramapo College of New Jersey, where he has been teaching since 2008. His academic focus lies in early American and Atlantic World history, with a particular emphasis on religious and cultural developments during the colonial and revolutionary periods.
Research Interests:
- Popular Religion in the American South
- Scottish and Irish Cultural Transmission to America
- Religious Violence and Occult Practices in the Atlantic World
- Colonial North America and the Era of the American Revolution
- Empire and Independence in the Americas
His scholarly work explores the intersections of religion, culture, and identity in early American society. His publications reflect a deep engagement with transatlantic religious movements, particularly the spread of Scottish evangelicalism and its impact on colonial communities. He is currently working on a book titled Invisible Plantations: Religious Violence, Occult Healing, and Witchcraft in the Scottish Atlantic World, 1590–1820, which promises to contribute significantly to the understanding of marginalized spiritual practices.
Recent Publications Trends: His articles and reviews span topics in religious history, migration studies, and Native American-colonial relations, demonstrating a broad yet cohesive research agenda focused on cultural and spiritual dynamics in early America. The works reflect a methodological approach rooted in social and cultural history, often highlighting underrepresented voices and belief systems.
Professional Engagement: Atkinson has presented his research at notable academic conferences, including the American Society of Church History, the Society of Early Americanists, and the HGS Colloquium Series at Ramapo College, indicating active participation in scholarly communities.
Teaching: He teaches a range of undergraduate courses including Introduction to U.S. History I, Early American Religious History, Colonial North America, and the Era of the American Revolution, contributing to both the History major and broader liberal arts curriculum.
