Rudi Matthee is the John and Dorothy Munroe Distinguished Professor of History at the University of Delaware's College of Arts & Sciences, specializing in Middle Eastern and Iranian history. His work focuses on early modern Iran, particularly the Safavid period, examining trade, cultural practices, and political dynamics. He has authored influential books such as *The Politics of Trade in Safavid Iran* (1999), *The Pursuit of Pleasure* (2005), and *Persia in Crisis* (2012). Additionally, he co-edited volumes like *The Safavid World* (2021) and contributed to studies on Safavid-Spanish relations, Russian-Iranian diplomacy, and monetary history. Matthee's accolades include the Albert Hourani Book Prize (2006), the Saidi Sirjani Award (2004-2005), and the British-Kuwaiti Friendship Book Prize (2012). He has held leadership roles in academic organizations, serving twice as president of the Association for the Study of Persianate Societies and currently leading the Persian Heritage Foundation. His research bridges economic, cultural, and political history, offering insights into Iran's global connections and internal transformations. His publications analyze themes ranging from alcohol consumption in Islamic societies to the economic underpinnings of empires, showcasing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding premodern and early modern Iran. His work underscores the importance of Iran's role in broader Eurasian and global historical narratives.
