Patrick earned his bachelor’s degree from Gettysburg College where he majored in political science and minored in history. His main focus of study was on the intersection of American politics and international affairs. He followed with a master’s degree from the American University School of International Service where he studied conflict and peace. Patrick published for AU’s academic journal and the International Policy Journal at the Center for International Policy.
Areas of Expertise
Why the Kingdom of Castile Led Spain’s Unification
Castile went from being a small, insignificant kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula to becoming one of the strongest European powers.
How the Kingdom of Aragon Built a Mediterranean Empire
After gaining independence in 1035, the Kingdom of Aragon grew into one of the most formidable powers in Europe through skilled diplomacy and military prowess.
What Sparked the Hundred Years’ War Between England and France?
A family feud over the French throne spiraled into a century of war. Discover the bitter rivalries and betrayals that sparked the legendary conflict.
Richard the Lionheart’s Final Siege at Châlus Castle
On March 26, 1199, King Richard I of England laid siege to Châlus Castle in France. While his army was successful, Richard was fatally wounded.
How the Battle of Bannockburn Saved Scotland’s Fight for Independence
In June 1314, Robert the Bruce and his Scottish army of 6,000 men trounced King Edward II’s English army, consolidating his reign as King of Scotland.
The Medieval Powerhouse That Was the Kingdom of Bohemia
The kingdom of Bohemia established by Přemysl Ottokar I in the late 12th century was one of the most powerful states in central Europe.
The Forgotten Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan Who Shaped Modern Naval Warfare
Despite being a poor sailor, Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan was one of the most influential naval strategists in history.
What Life Was Really Like in Al-Andalus During Its Golden Age
The lives of people who lived in al-Andalus were more nuanced than what is commonly believed today.
The Rise and Fall of the Latin Empire of Constantinople
Following the Fourth Crusade, the Crusaders partitioned the Byzantine Empire and established their own states. The most important was the Latin Empire in Constantinople.
The Dark History of the Pogroms That Shook the Russian Empire
While antisemitism was common throughout European society, from the 1880s onwards the Russian Empire witnessed frequent violent attacks on Jewish communities known as pogroms.
The Famous Battleship Potemkin Mutiny That Was Immortalized in Eisenstein’s Iconic Film
Immortalized in Sergei Eisenstein’s famous film, the mutiny aboard the Russian warship Potemkin was one of the most iconic moments of the 1905 Revolution.
6 Successful Revolutionary Leaders in History
Revolutions are often defined by their leaders. In this article, six of history’s most prominent revolutionary figures are explained in detail.