John Ernest

John Ernest investigates challenges and opportunities in African American Literary History, serving as a Professor and Chair of the Department of English at the University of Delaware. With a distinguished career in academia, he has authored or edited twelve books and contributed over twenty-five journal articles and book chapters, establishing himself as a leading scholar in his field. His recent works, such as "Liberation Historiography: African American Writers and the Challenge of History, 1794–1861," "Chaotic Justice: Rethinking African American Literary History," and "A Nation within a Nation: Organizing African American Communities before the Civil War," reflect his deep engagement with the complexities of African American narratives and their historical contexts. Before his tenure at the University of Delaware, John Ernest held the prestigious position of Eberly Family Distinguished Professor of American Literature at West Virginia University for seven years. During his time there, he contributed significantly to the academic community, fostering a deeper understanding of American literature through his innovative research and teaching methods. His academic journey also includes twelve years at the University of New Hampshire, where he was recognized with several awards for his exceptional teaching and unwavering commitment to social justice. His dedication to education and equity has left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike, inspiring a new generation of scholars to explore the intersections of literature, history, and social change. John Ernest's research interests lie at the intersection of African American literary history and historiography, where he explores the narratives that have shaped and been shaped by African American experiences. His work challenges conventional historical narratives, offering new perspectives on the contributions and struggles of African American writers and communities. In addition to his scholarly pursuits, John Ernest is actively involved in various academic and community initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the literary and historical fields. His leadership and vision continue to influence the discourse surrounding African American literature and history, making significant strides toward a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of the past. Through his extensive body of work, John Ernest has become a pivotal figure in the study of African American literary history, contributing to a broader understanding of the cultural and historical forces that have shaped African American communities. His ongoing research and dedication to education remain vital to the advancement of knowledge and social justice within the academic community.