Philip Skorokhodov
Philip Skorokhodov
Self-Employeed
Self-Employeed
Philip Skorokhodov, an esteemed historian focused on the societal impacts of World War II in European cities, has developed a distinguished career that blends rigorous academic research with a deep commitment to education. Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, his early exposure to diverse cultures and histories fueled his passion for understanding the past and its ongoing influence on present realities. His academic journey is a testament to his dedication to uncovering the nuanced realities of historical events and their interpretations.
Philip's formative years were spent in Albuquerque, where he attended Manzano Day School and later Albuquerque Academy. His interest in History was evident from a young age, as he excelled in subjects that required analytical thinking and a deep understanding of complex narratives. His teachers recognized his potential early on, encouraging him to pursue studies that would allow him to explore his interests in greater depth.
Philip's pursuit of historical studies led him to Swarthmore College, where he majored in History with a minor in Political Science. This combination allowed him to examine historical events through multiple lenses, enriching his understanding of the factors that shape societal developments. At Swarthmore, he engaged in a comprehensive study of European History, focusing on the impacts of World War II.
His undergraduate thesis, "Who Won the War? Teaching the Young Generation: The Case of France (1946-2008)," explored the evolution of World War II narratives in French educational materials. This research highlighted the changing perceptions of the war in France and set the stage for his later work on memory and historical representation.
During his time at Swarthmore, Philip also studied abroad in Paris, immersing himself in French culture and deepening his proficiency in the French language. This experience shaped his approach to historical research, providing him with firsthand insights into the complexities of French History and memory.
Following his graduation from Swarthmore, Philip pursued a Master of Arts in Social Sciences at the University of Chicago. Here, he focused on Russian History, particularly the country's contemporary engagement with its World War II past. His thesis, "The Second World War Debates in Russia (2000-2010): Political and Academic Obsession," examined the persistent debates surrounding the war's portrayal in Russian academic and political arenas. This work underscored the contentious nature of historical memory in shaping national identity.
Philip continued his academic journey at Arizona State University, where he embarked on a Ph.D. program in History. His dissertation, "A Tale of Two Cities: Food, Hunger, and Rationing in Moscow and Paris during WWII," aimed to provide a comparative analysis of how these two major cities coped with the severe challenges of wartime. Achieving ABD status, he has completed all his doctoral coursework and examinations, with only his dissertation defense pending.
Philip's research has taken him to numerous archives in Moscow and Paris, where he has meticulously studied documents related to wartime rationing policies and their effects on urban populations. His fieldwork is characterized by a systematic approach to archival research, allowing him to uncover lesser-known aspects of life during World War II.
Parallel to his research, Philip has been an active educator, teaching Western Civilization and U.S. History courses at Arizona State University. His teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking and encourages students to question established narratives and explore diverse perspectives on historical events.
Philip has also taught at community colleges and provided language instruction, further demonstrating his commitment to education and mentorship. His ability to teach complex historical topics clearly and engagingly has made him a respected figure among students and colleagues.
Beyond academia, Philip is deeply involved in community outreach. He has worked with the Albuquerque International Association to organize events that promote a greater understanding of international History and current affairs. Through these efforts, he seeks to foster a broader appreciation for the impact of History on contemporary global interactions.
Outside of his professional life, Philip is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys skiing, hiking, and biking. These activities provide him with a balance to the intellectual demands of his career. Additionally, he is fluent in English and Russian and proficient in French. He has a good command of Spanish, skills that enhance his research and allow him to engage with various historical sources and scholars.
Philip Skorokhodov's career is marked by a profound dedication to understanding the past and its influence on the present. Through his teaching, research, and community involvement, he contributes valuable insights into History, enriching the academic community and the broader public's understanding of complex historical realities.