Philip Skorokhodov

 

Philip Skorokhodov, a dedicated historian specializing in European and Russian History, has devoted his academic career to exploring the intricacies of World War II and its profound impact on the cities of Moscow and Paris. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, his early fascination with the past and its lessons led him to a life dedicated to education and research. His academic journey—from his foundational schooling to his profound explorations in graduate studies—showcases a relentless pursuit of understanding historical truths and their presentation in modern contexts.

Beginnings in New Mexico

Philip's educational path began in Albuquerque, where his academic potential quickly became apparent. At Manzano Day School, his interests in languages and the arts of narrative were nurtured, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. Continuing at Albuquerque Academy, he excelled, particularly in History and English, where he could connect historical events with contemporary issues. This skill would define his later research.

Undergraduate Exploration at Swarthmore College

Philip's scholarly ambition led him to Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania, where he pursued a Bachelor's degree in History, supplemented by a minor in Political Science. This combination allowed him to delve deeply into the socio-political contexts that shaped historical events, a theme that would prominently feature in his future academic work. His undergraduate thesis, "Who Won the War? Teaching the Young Generation: The Case of France (1946-2008)," examined the shifting narratives in French education about World War II, reflecting his interest in how societies remember and reshape their histories.

During this period, he also spent a transformative year abroad in Paris, where Philip immersed himself in French culture and political thought. The experience was pivotal, providing him firsthand insights into the complexities of French historical memory and its public discourse and enriching his understanding and fluency in French.

Graduate Studies: Deepening the Historical Inquiry

Driven by a passion to explore the narratives of the past further, Philip advanced to the University of Chicago, where he earned a Master of Arts in Social Sciences. His master's thesis explored the contentious debates over World War II in Russia between 2000 and 2010, analyzing how these historical discussions were framed within Russian political and academic spheres. This thesis not only highlighted his analytical skills but also his ability to dissect complex historical and political dialogues.

The pursuit of a more profound understanding led Philip to Arizona State University for his doctoral studies in History. His dissertation, "A Tale of Two Cities: Food, Hunger and Rationing in Moscow and Paris during WWII," sought to compare the survival strategies and governmental policies in these two cities during the war. Achieving ABD status, he has completed all requirements for his Ph.D. except the final defense of his dissertation—a testament to his detailed and rigorous approach to historical research.

Field Research: Archival Explorations

Philip's research methodology is characterized by extensive archival work, with significant time spent in Moscow and Paris. These expeditions involved meticulous examination of wartime documents in several prominent archives, including the State Archive of the Russian Federation and the Paris City Historical Archive. His work in these archives provided crucial primary sources for his comparative analysis of how Moscow and Paris navigated the complexities of war-induced hardships.

Teaching and Mentoring

Parallel to his research, Philip has cultivated a robust teaching career. He has taught various history courses at Arizona State University and took on responsibilities such as curriculum development and student assessment. His teaching extended to Chandler-Gilbert Community College and a temporary position teaching Russian at the Arizona Academy of Math and Science, showcasing his linguistic skills and adaptability.

Engaging with the Broader Community

Beyond academia, Philip has actively contributed to the Albuquerque International Association, where he helped organize cultural and educational events to broaden public understanding of international affairs. This role underscored his commitment to applying historical insights to global discussions and fostering a more informed community.

Personal Interests and Linguistic Proficiency

Philip's interests extend beyond his academic pursuits. He is fluent in English and Russian, proficient in French, and has a strong command of Spanish, enabling him to engage directly with a broad range of historical texts and communities. His time is often spent engaging in outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, which provide him with physical balance for his intellectually demanding career. He also enjoys attending concerts and visiting museums, complementing his historical studies by providing additional cultural context.

A Life Dedicated to History

His life and work exemplify a profound dedication to understanding and teaching the complexities of History. His research sheds light on how different societies have experienced and remembered World War II and informs contemporary discussions about memory and identity. As he continues to teach, research, and engage with the public, Philip Skorokhodov remains a vital voice in the field of historical studies, continually seeking to uncover the nuanced truths of the past and their implications for the present and future.