About Russell Shorto

I was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. I have three children (Anna, Eva and Anthony) and three step-children (Reinier, Hector and Benjamin). I write books of narrative history; I believe history is most meaningful when explored through individuals in conflict. My books have been published in fourteen languages and have won numerous awards. In 2009 I was given a knighthood by the Dutch government for advancing Dutch-American historical awareness. In 2018 I was inducted into the New York State Writers Hall of Fame. I am senior scholar at the New Netherland Institute and a contributing writer at the New York Times Magazine.