Mark McLay

Lancaster University - Global Challenges Teaching Award Exploring Polarisation and Division

Mark McLay is a Lecturer in 20th Century U.S. History at Lancaster University, specializing in the evolution of the United States since the 1960s, with a particular focus on the increasing political, societal, and cultural polarization that has shaped the nation. He is the author of the "American Carnage" Substack, where he explores the history of U.S. polarization to illuminate contemporary American politics. 

Currently, Mark is researching a project aimed at understanding polarization in the United States during the largely peaceful and prosperous 1990s. As part of this work, he is writing an article on gay rights during that decade, examining the era's significant social and political shifts. 

He is excited to begin the Global Challenges Teaching Award on Polarization and Division, through which looks forward to acquiring a deeper understanding of polarization as well as providing Lancaster students the chance to engage with, and learn from, their peers across the Atlantic.