Jillian Higgins
MA Student History
Jillian Higgins is a first-year Master's student in Baylor's History department. Although Jillian has primarily been interested in women and domesticity, she hopes her research in Baylor's History program will focus on the other end of the gender spectrum: masculinity. Jillian aims for her research to illuminate a different perspective on the changing definition of what it meant to be a gentleman and a soldier by examining how masculinity, psychology, and religious ideals shifted during The Great War. We were able to learn more about Jillian's research and time at Baylor recently by asking her a few questions.
Why did you choose to attend Baylor for Graduate School?
Baylor not only had an excellent program, but the low student-to-faculty ratio made Baylor stand out from the other programs. In addition, I chose Baylor because of its financial support for its Graduate Students' research and its dedication to providing a Christian-centered education.
What are your research interests?
I predominantly have studied the intersection of gender construction history with religion. I have published an essay about Colonial Quaker Women in Philadelphia at the acme of the Revolutionary War, however, my interests have expanded to now include U.S./British Military History, Psychological Gender Role History, and Transatlantic Colonial Ties
What opportunities or implications stem from your research?
Utilizing my primary research on women and domesticity, I hope for my Master’s research to look at the other end of the gender spectrum at masculinity. I aim for my research to illuminate a different perspective on the changing definition of what it meant to be a gentleman and a soldier by examining how masculinity, psychology, and religious ideals shifted during The Great War.
What research excites you right now?
I have been reading many objective articles regarding "what makes good history". These pieces often explore the idea that only the winners write the history that we see today. This ongoing debate is refreshing to me as it moves to examine the historical profession from a theoretical lens.
How does Baylor help you achieve your research?
Baylor has aided my research encouraging me to apply for research- travel grants and conference grants. Coupled with rigorous coursework, Baylor's Master's Program is designed to help their students succeed no matter how niche of a research topic.
Tell us about your thesis.
My thesis examines the shifting in the definition of what it means to be a "gentleman" and a "soldier" utilizing General John Pershing as a case study. My research argues that masculinity was a form of an outward façade (General Pershing being this example) rather than a mental state of being for many young men during The Great War.