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faculty
Brian Williams
Professor
History
Contact
508-999-8302
508-999-8809
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Liberal Arts 334
Teaching
Courses
Introduces students to historical method and perspective through comparative study of human societies and cultures. The concept of "civilization" is examined in varied contexts through comparisons of social, economic, and political institutions, as well as systems of thought and religion, from pre-history to around 1400.
A broad cultural, religious, political, geographic survey of the historical roots of terrorism in this strategic region. Special emphasis on understanding Osama bin Laden, Iraqi insurgents, 9/11, and trans-national jihadism.
Seminars will be offered variously in topics in non-European World History. The writing of a substantial paper will be required. Content will vary with instructor; may be repeated with change of content. Cross-listed for AAS, JST, and WMS when the content is appropriate.
Research
Research interests
- America's post-9/11 wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria
- CIA drone warfare and global counter-terrorism
- Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS terrorism and warfare
- Islamic Central Asia, Crimea, Russia, Chechnya, Ukraine, Turkey, Balkans
- History of the Ottoman Islamic and Mongol Empires and Barbarian conquests