Professor Stewart: A Career in Early Modern British History
The study of early modern Britain requires a deep dive into the complex intersections of faith, power, and national identity. Professor Stewart has dedicated her academic career to unraveling these threads, specifically focusing on the political landscape of Scotland and its intricate relationship with England during a period of intense upheaval.
Academic Foundation and Doctoral Research
Professor Stewart's scholarly journey began with a Master of Arts degree from the University of St Andrews. She subsequently transitioned to the University of Edinburgh, where she earned a Master of Science degree by research. This foundation paved the way for her doctoral studies at the same institution.
In 2003, she was awarded her PhD for her thesis titled "Politics and religion in Edinburgh, 1617–53," a work that established her expertise in the religious and political dynamics of the early 17th century.
Professional Progression and Professorship
Following her PhD, Stewart served as a British Academy postdoctoral fellow from 2005 to 2007. She then spent a decade teaching at Birkbeck, University of London, refining her pedagogical approach and research focus before joining the University of York in 2016.
Her contributions to the field led to her appointment as Professor in Early Modern History at the University of York in 2018. Beyond her teaching duties, she is a recognized Fellow of both the Royal Historical Society and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.
Research Focus and Award-Winning Scholarship
Professor Stewart's research specializes in early modern British history, with a particular emphasis on Scottish political culture, Anglo-Scottish relations, and the Civil War. Her work seeks to provide new perspectives on how these elements shaped the British Isles.
Her scholarly impact is highlighted by her 2016 book, Rethinking the Scottish Revolution. This significant work received critical acclaim, winning the American Historical Association's Morris D. Forkosch Prize in 2017 and earning a spot on the shortlist for the Longman–History Today Awards that same year.
Key Facts
- PhD Thesis: "Politics and religion in Edinburgh, 1617–53" (2003).
- Current Role: Professor in Early Modern History at the University of York (since 2018).
- Major Publication: Rethinking the Scottish Revolution (2016).
- Key Award: Morris D. Forkosch Prize from the American Historical Association (2017).
- Fellowships: Royal Historical Society and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.
| Period/Year | Institution/Achievement | Role/Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | University of Edinburgh | PhD Awarded |
| 2005–2007 | British Academy | Postdoctoral Fellow |
| 2007–2016 | Birkbeck, University of London | Teaching Faculty |
| 2016 | University of York | Joined Faculty |
| 2018 | University of York | Professor in Early Modern History |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Professor Stewart's primary area of research?
Her research focuses on early modern British history, specifically emphasizing Anglo-Scottish relations, the Civil War, and Scottish political culture.
Which book won the Morris D. Forkosch Prize?
Her book titled Rethinking the Scottish Revolution, published in 2016, won the prize in 2017.
Where did Professor Stewart complete her doctoral studies?
She completed her PhD at the University of Edinburgh, receiving her degree in 2003.
Which professional societies is she a member of?
She is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.
How long did she teach at Birkbeck, University of London?
Professor Stewart taught at Birkbeck for ten years before moving to the University of York in 2016.