Dr. Michael J. Birkner
Professor of History, Gettysburg College
Michael J. Birkner is a historian and educator who has taught at Gettysburg College since 1989, specializing in American politics in the 1850s and 1950s. Over the course of his career, he has authored and edited numerous books and articles, and served as editor of the quarterly journal Pennsylvania History from 1987 to 1994. Michael has been an active leader in the historical community, serving on the trustee boards of both Gettysburg History and the Lancaster County Historical Society. His expertise has been recognized nationally, including service as a juror for the Pulitzer Prize in history in 2003 and 2006, chairing the jury in the latter year. Known for his engaging teaching style and deep commitment to public history, Michael continues to connect academic scholarship with broader audiences.