Edward J. Blum

Edward J. Blum serves as Professor of History at San Diego State University, specializing in nineteenth-century United States history with particular expertise in race, religion, and Civil War-era scholarship. His academic career centers on exploring intersections of demography, constitutionalism, and cultural dynamics from the nation's founding through Reconstruction.

His educational background includes:

• B.A. in History from University of Michigan (1999)
• M.A. in History from University of Kentucky (2001)
• Ph.D. in History from University of Kentucky (2003)

Blum's research investigates how religious frameworks shaped American political identity, particularly examining racial constructions through biblical interpretation and material religious objects. His work reveals how census data and demographic practices influenced national narratives, while his analysis of evil symbolism in Civil War rhetoric demonstrates religion's role in political demonization. He consistently connects historical religious discourse to contemporary race relations, showing enduring patterns from slavery through the Obama presidency.

His publications reveal strong thematic continuity in exploring race-religion intersections, with increasing attention to material culture and evil theology since 2014. The articles demonstrate methodological range across intellectual history, religious studies, and memory theory while maintaining focus on nineteenth-century America.

Award recognition includes:

• Peter Seaborg Award for Civil War Scholarship
• Gustave O. Arlt Award in the Humanities
• John T. Hubbell Prize for best Civil War History article (2015)

Blum's scholarly leadership extends through edited volumes like Major Problems in American History and The Columbia Guide to Religion in American History, though specific grant funding and student mentorship details aren't documented in available sources. His collaborative projects with scholars like Paul Harvey on religious material culture represent significant contributions to the field.