Andrew Latham

Professor Andrew Latham is a distinguished scholar of international security, strategic studies, and political economy. As a Professor of International Relations at Macalester College, he has built a reputation for his expertise in war, geopolitics, grand strategy, and the historical evolution of the international system. His scholarship is rooted in a rigorous engagement with history, political theory, and security studies, offering a nuanced understanding of the forces shaping global affairs.

In addition to his academic role, Professor Latham is a Non-Resident Fellow at Defense Priorities in Washington, DC, where he contributes to policy discussions on U.S. grand strategy and the role of military power in international affairs. He also serves as a Senior Washington Fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, lending his expertise to debates on security, diplomacy, and geopolitical stability. His influence extends into the media and policy spheres through his roles as a Contributing Editor at 19FortyFive and as an Opinion Contributor for both The Hill and RealClearDefense, where he provides incisive analysis on defense policy, great power competition, and transatlantic security.

Professor Latham earned his PhD in Political Science from York University in Canada, specializing in international security and strategic thought. His intellectual trajectory has been shaped not only by academic inquiry but also by direct involvement in defense and security policymaking. Before entering academia, he worked with the Government of Canada, where he played a role in shaping national security policy. His time in government gave him firsthand
insight into strategic decision-making, military planning, and Canada’s role in the broader geopolitical landscape—experience that continues to inform his research and public engagement.

As an accomplished author, Professor Latham has written extensively on the intersection of political thought, military strategy, and international relations. His book Theorizing Medieval Geopolitics: War and World Order in the Age of the Crusades offers a groundbreaking exploration of how medieval political philosophy and military strategy shaped the international order of the time. His historical novel The Holy Lance brings to life the power struggles,
ideological conflicts, and military campaigns of the Crusades in a gripping narrative informed by his scholarly expertise. His most recent book, Medieval Sovereignty, presents a fresh perspective on the evolution of state sovereignty, challenging conventional narratives that locate its origins solely in modernity by demonstrating its deep medieval roots. Across these works, his scholarship bridges historical analysis with contemporary strategic thought, drawing illuminating parallels between past and present.

Beyond his academic writing, Professor Latham is a prolific commentator on contemporary security and strategy. His insights have appeared in leading policy and media outlets, including The National Interest, RealClearDefense, The Hill, and The Diplomat. His ability to translate complex strategic and geopolitical issues into accessible and incisive analysis has made him a sought-after voice in debates on U.S. grand strategy, NATO, and great power competition. He has also been featured in major international media platforms such as BBC, CNN, The Guardian, Foreign Policy, and War on the Rocks, where his expertise on global security challenges continues to shape public discourse.

His research interests span a broad range of critical topics in international relations and strategic studies. His work on great power competition examines the shifting geopolitical dynamics between the United States, China, and Russia, assessing the implications of multipolarity for global stability. His analysis of NATO and transatlantic security explores the alliance’s future, the burden-sharing debate, and Canada’s evolving role within it. In the field of nuclear strategy
and deterrence, he has contributed to discussions on arms control, strategic stability, and the risks associated with emerging technologies. His research on sovereignty and statecraft engages deeply with historical and contemporary debates over the nature of political authority, demonstrating how the past continues to inform the present. Throughout his career, he has also maintained a strong interest in the history of warfare, drawing connections between medieval, early modern, and contemporary military strategies.

In addition to his scholarship and public commentary, Professor Latham is an active participant in policy debates on U.S. grand strategy and the evolving global order. His work consistently challenges conventional wisdom, advocating for a realist approach to international relations that balances military power with diplomatic engagement and economic statecraft. His nuanced perspective on NATO, transatlantic security, and geopolitical rivalry contributes to ongoing discussions among policymakers, military professionals, and academic audiences.

What sets Professor Latham apart is his ability to bridge the worlds of academia and policy. His background in government, combined with his deep scholarly expertise and public engagement, allows him to offer a rare blend of theoretical insight and practical understanding. His work is not confined to the classroom or the pages of academic journals; rather, it directly informs real- world strategic thinking. Whether through his books, policy analysis, media appearances, or teaching, he continues to shape the discourse on war, security, and international order.

A dedicated educator as well as a scholar, Professor Latham is committed to mentoring the next generation of international relations students, equipping them with the analytical tools to navigate an increasingly complex world. His teaching at Macalester College reflects the same intellectual rigor and real-world relevance that characterize his research, inspiring students to think critically about global security challenges.

Through his contributions to scholarship, policy, and public debate, Professor Andrew Latham remains a vital voice in discussions on international security and grand strategy. His work serves as an essential resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the geopolitical realities of the past and present.

BA: York University, Honours, Toronto
MA: Queen’s University, Kingston
PhD: York University, Toronto