I am a historian specializing in African economic and environmental history, as well as research into the place of Africa in world history. Much of my research is focused on southern Africa, particularly Namibia. My work examines how apartheid policies in this region were deeply intertwined with efforts to expand the rangeland of the karakul sheep, an unusual breed whose primary product is not mutton or wool, but lambskin pelts destined for the women’s fur coat industry.
Prior to coming to Alma College, I taught history at Michigan State University, Washtenaw Community College, and the University of Namibia. Outside of university employment, I am involved in legal research and advocacy relating to the land question in Namibia.