Louise Young

Louise Young is a Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, specializing in modern Japan's social and cultural history. Her work focuses on Japanese international relations, World War II in Asia, comparative imperialism, and urban history. She is affiliated with the Department of History and holds offices in Mosse Humanities Building.

Education:

• Ph.D., Columbia University
• M.A., Columbia University
• B.A., University of Wisconsin-Madison

Research interests include transitioning feudal status systems into modern class hierarchies (1860-1940), Japan's global imperial trajectory from the 19th century to present neo-nationalist movements, and urban modernity in interwar Japan. Her current projects explore class theory and imperial historiography.

Her recent publications analyze fascism's intersection with empire in Manchuria, global empire comparisons, and urbanization's role in shaping modern Japanese society. Teaching focuses on East Asian history, empire studies, and historiography, with courses on atomic bombs, imperial collapse, and postwar Japan.

Advising: Currently not accepting 2025-26 graduate students but has guided Emir Karakaya, Shatrunjay Mall, and John-Coahle Merryfield. Active in grant-related professional development seminars.