David Head

David Head is a Lecturer in the Department of History at the University of Central Florida (UCF), specializing in early American history with particular expertise in the American Revolution, Founding Fathers, and maritime history including pirates and privateers. In 2023, he was named Distinguished Faculty Fellow in History by Kentucky Wesleyan College, recognizing his scholarly contributions to the field.

Dr. Head earned his B.A. in history from Niagara University and his Ph.D. from the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, in 2010. His academic journey has positioned him as a leading expert in the complex intersections between maritime activity and political development during America's founding era.

Head's research program consistently explores how naval forces, both official and unofficial, shaped the development of the early United States and its international relationships. His work on privateering reveals how unofficial naval warfare influenced diplomatic relations between the young United States and emerging Latin American nations. He has made significant contributions to understanding the Newburgh Conspiracy and its implications for American political development, as well as examining how pirates and privateers operated within the broader Atlantic World context.

His scholarly output demonstrates a remarkable range from traditional academic monographs to public-facing historical commentary. Head skillfully bridges academic scholarship with public interest topics, making complex historical subjects accessible to broader audiences while maintaining rigorous scholarly standards. His recent work has focused on the 'schemers and adventurers' who played crucial roles in America's founding, challenging simplistic narratives of the revolutionary period.

• Recipient, Teaching Incentive Program Award, University of Central Florida, 2022
• Recipient, Research Incentive Award, University of Central Florida, 2021
• Honorable mention, 2020 Best Book Award, Journal of the American Revolution
• Finalist, 2020 George Washington Book Prize
• John Gardner Maritime Research Award, 2016
• Ralph D. Gray Article Prize, 2014
• Marion Brewington Prize, 2008
• Hardin Craig Award, 2001

Head's research has been supported by prestigious organizations including the National Endowment for the Humanities, George Washington's Mount Vernon, the Library Company of Philadelphia, the Gilder Lehrman Institute, and the Maryland Historical Society. His teaching responsibilities include U.S. History (1492-1877) in both mixed mode and web-based formats, as well as Western Civilization I. His public engagement includes writing for USA Today, the Orlando Sentinel, The Bulwark, and Current on historical topics ranging from George Washington's shopping habits to the musical Hamilton.

Though not explicitly mentioned in institutional affiliations, Head's research focus suggests strong connections with historical societies and research centers dedicated to early American history, particularly those examining maritime aspects of the revolutionary period. His work with George Washington's Mount Vernon indicates participation in collaborative research projects related to America's founding era.