Phyllis W. Hunter

Dr. Phyllis W. Hunter is a distinguished faculty member in the History Department at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she delves into the intricate relationship between capitalism and culture. Her scholarly pursuits are centered on the historical dynamics of transatlantic trade and its profound influence on the social and cultural fabric of early America. Dr. Hunter earned her Ph.D. from the College of William and Mary, a testament to her rigorous academic training and commitment to historical inquiry. Throughout her career, Dr. Hunter has held various academic positions, including roles as an instructor, assistant professor, and associate professor, enriching her teaching portfolio across multiple esteemed institutions. Her scholarly contributions include the acclaimed book "Purchasing Identity in the Atlantic World: Massachusetts Merchants, 1670-1780," which has been pivotal in understanding the economic and cultural exchanges of the period. She is currently engaged in writing two forthcoming books, "Imagining Asia in Early America" and "Sailing East: The Empress of China and the New Nation," which promise to offer fresh perspectives on historical narratives. Dr. Hunter's research excellence has been recognized through numerous grants and awards, notably a fellowship from the National Humanities Center, which underscores her contributions to the field of history. Her teaching repertoire is diverse, covering courses on U.S. history, women in American history, the American colonial period, and theories of material culture, reflecting her broad expertise and passion for educating the next generation of historians. In addition to her teaching and research, Dr. Hunter is actively involved in academic communities, contributing to the discourse on material culture and early American history. Her work not only illuminates the past but also provides valuable insights into the cultural and economic forces that have shaped contemporary society. Her dedication to her field and her students is evident in her dynamic approach to both scholarship and pedagogy. Dr. Hunter's ongoing projects and her commitment to exploring new historical frontiers continue to inspire her colleagues and students alike. Her work remains a vital part of the academic landscape, offering nuanced understandings of the past and its enduring impact on the present.