About
Esteemed historian and author renowned for his expertise in the social and environmental development of the American West. He has served as Emeritus Alumni Distinguished Professor at the University of Arkansas and has been the recipient of prestigious honors such as the 2024 Bancroft Prize and being named a 2024 Pullitzer Prize finalist for his book, Continental Reckoning.
Before Fame
He was exposed to journalism at an early age, as his father was an editor and his brother was a travel writer. He earned his bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Texas before transitioning to history, obtaining his master's degree and PhD from the University of Colorado. He also taught at numerous universities and joined the faculty of the University of Arkansas in 1979.
Trivia
His 1998 book, The Contested Plains, earned both the Francis Parkman Prize and the Ray Allen Billington Prize. He has been the recipient of several Western Heritage Awards, including in 2010 for his book, The Last Indian War.
Family Life
He and his wife share five children together.
Associated With
He has been recognized as "the Charles Portis of American history" for his engaging and detailed lectures.
