Donald Kagan, Sterling Professor Emeritus of Classics and History at Yale, passed away on August 6, 2021, at the age of 89. A gifted researcher and teacher, Donald Kagan taught Ancient Greek History to thousands of undergrads over the course of his long career at Yale. Soon after his arrival in 1969, his courses on Athenian Democracy, the Peloponnesian War, and Fifth Century Athens, became the stuff of legend. For those who took professor Kagan’s courses, their experiences have withstood the test of time. To this day, they evoke powerful memories of inspired teaching, of ‘aha!’ moments experienced, and special insights gained.
Below is a small sampling of obituaries and testimonials ranging from the very local (Yale University) to the international. As a set, they give insight into the many facets of a complex and talented scholar. He will be missed.
Yale News (external link — opens in new window)
New Haven Register (external link — opens in new window)
New York Times (external link — opens in new window)
Washington Post (external link — opens in new window)
The National Review (external link — opens in new window)
Politico Magazine (external link — opens in new window)