Michael Lower

Michael Lower is a Morse Alumni Distinguished University Teaching Professor and Professor of History at the University of Minnesota. His research focuses on medieval Mediterranean history, crusades, mercenaries, and sports history with a particular interest in integrating Arabic and European sources. He earned his Ph.D. in Medieval History from Cambridge University (1999) after studying at the University of Toronto. Notable works include The Tunis Crusade of 1270: A Mediterranean History (2018) and The Barons' Crusade of 1239 (2005). His current project explores the history of Hakoah Vienna, an all-Jewish soccer club.

Education:

• B.A. in History, Victoria College, University of Toronto
• Ph.D. in Medieval History, Cambridge University, 1999

Research Interests: Combines Arabic and European primary sources to analyze medieval conflicts, focusing on multi-perspective narratives of the crusades. Explores intersections of sports history (particularly soccer) with Jewish history and medieval military practices. Specializes in mercenary dynamics, interfaith relations in the Mediterranean, and legal frameworks governing medieval warfare.

Awards:

• Mellon Foundation New Directions Fellowship (2010-11)
• Morse Alumni Distinguished University Teaching Professor title

Grants & Advising: No specific grants listed, but his fellowship supported Arabic studies. No advisees listed. Engages in teaching innovations through his distinguished teaching role.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with medieval manuscript archives and participates in interdisciplinary projects on Mediterranean history.