Timothy Parsons

Timothy H. Parsons is a Professor of History and African and African American Studies at Washington University in St. Louis. He holds a PhD from Johns Hopkins University (1996), an MA from George Washington University (1991), and a BA from Wesleyan University (1985). His research focuses on the social history of colonial Africa, with particular attention to identity formation, empire legacies, and urban history. He has authored influential works such as The Rule of Empires (2010) and edited volumes like Africa and World War II (2015).

Parsons' research explores how ordinary Africans navigated imperial rule and its aftermath. Current projects include Patterns of Inequality, comparing Liverpool and Nairobi through race, class, and empire, and a global social history of the 20th century. His work has earned awards like the PROSE Honorable Mention and Fulbright Scholarships.

His articles analyze topics such as colonial military service, disabled veterans, and the Boy Scout movement's role in African identity. Parsons has held leadership roles, including Director of International and Area Studies (2010-2015) and Director of Graduate Studies in History (2005-2011). His teaching and scholarship emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to colonial and postcolonial histories.