Lauren is a doctoral researcher
Using the Time Traveller database, my research topic “Guns & Violence” examines the spread and impact of gunpowder across pre-colonial Africa. I have a master’s degree (history) from Stellenbosch University, South Africa and have a special interest in how geography and the political economy shape long-run institutions. I have previously worked on the South African Anglo-Boer War, studying statistical biases, rebel mobilisation, and how various factors shape and inform one’s political views and preferences.