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James Felak is a Professor in the Department of History at the University of Washington, where he has been a faculty member since completing his Ph.D. at Indiana University in 1989. His research focuses on Eastern and Modern European history, particularly the interplay of nationalism, politics, and religion in the context of East Central Europe throughout the twentieth century. He has explored the complexities of the relationship between Catholics, Protestants, and Communists in Slovakia during the decisive years leading up to and following the Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia. His major publications include 'At Price Republic: Hlinka's Slovak People's Party, 1929-1938' and 'Hitler, Stalin: Catholics, Communists, Democrats Slovakia, 1945-1948', both published by the University of Pittsburgh Press. Felak is currently engaged in a book project examining Pope John Paul II's influence in Poland from 1979 to 1991, highlighting historical ethnic relationships and the pope's role in challenging the Communist regime. He teaches various courses on the history of East Central Europe, Catholicism, and modern European history, adapting his curriculum to address contemporary student interests and historical events.
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