About

Dr. Ryan K. Anderson earned his B.S. in Social Science Education (The Florida State University, 1997) before his graduate studies at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington (M.A., History, 2000) and Purdue University (2006). His scholarly endeavors explore the histories of youth, masculinity, and popular culture in America between 1877 and 1945. His book, Frank Merriwell and Fiction of All-American Boyhood: The Progressive Era Creation of the Schoolboy Sports Story (University of Arkansas Press, 2015) explores the historical roots of what Americans consider a “normal” childhood. His essays, talks, reviews, and online writing consider range from advertising, gender, race, kids’ books, and more. At present, he is working on a history of Pinehurst Resort’s young African-American caddies.

Dr. Anderson also served as UNCP’s Director of Undergraduate Research, working to advance the cause of scholarly exploration for students across campus. He also oversees the American Studies minor. He has received multiple teaching awards for his work in the History Department. When away from campus, Anderson stays busy with his wife, Kristen, and their children Maxwell and Marianne. He could be found hiking, golfing, travelling, running a softball practice, or pursuing the ultimate IPA.