Dr. Derek Peterson

Biography

Derek Peterson is the Ali Mazrui Collegiate Professor of History and African Studies at the University of Michigan. He specializes in the intellectual cultures of Eastern Africa and has published extensively on the historical narratives and identities within this region. His notable works include 'Ethnic Patriotism and the East African Revival' and 'Creative Writing: Translation, Bookkeeping, and the Work of Imagination in Colonial Kenya.' Peterson's research interests span various subjects such as the historical materials of Africa, religious movements, and the politics of heritage in the region. He has received significant recognition for his scholarship, including the African Studies Association’s Herskovits Prize and the American Historical Association’s Martin Klein Prize. As an editor, he contributes to discussions surrounding African history through his editorial role in the New African Histories book series. In addition to his writing, Peterson actively coordinates efforts to preserve endangered government archives in Uganda, ensuring these resources are accessible to both scholars and the local community. He is also dedicated to teaching, guiding doctoral students in various aspects of African studies, including literature, political thought, and identity formation.

Research Interests