John Joseph (historian)

John Joseph (born 1932, died 2018) was an Assyrian American historian and author known for his work on the history of Assyrians in the Middle East, particularly their modern history and political status. He dedicated his career to documenting and preserving Assyrian history and culture.

Joseph received his Ph.D. from Princeton University. He was a professor of history at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for many years.

His most notable work is The Modern Assyrians of the Middle East: Encounters with Western Christian Missions, Archaeologists, and Colonial Powers, published in 2000. This book examines the complex interactions between Assyrians, Western missionaries, and colonial powers during the 19th and 20th centuries and explores the impact of these interactions on Assyrian identity and survival.

Other significant publications include Muslim-Christian Relations and Inter-Christian Rivalries in the Middle East: The Case of the Jacobites in an Age of Transition, published in 1983. His scholarship provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by Assyrians and other Christian minorities in the Middle East throughout the modern era.

Joseph’s work is considered essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the historical experiences and contemporary realities of the Assyrian people. He contributed significantly to the field of Middle Eastern Studies and helped to raise awareness of Assyrian history and culture. He is remembered for his meticulous research, insightful analysis, and commitment to preserving the history of his people.