Ernest R. May

About the Author

Ernest R. May was a distinguished historian and educator whose work bridged the gap between past events and present-day decision-making. A longtime professor at Harvard University, May specialized in American diplomatic history and the role of historical insight in policy formulation. His seminal book, Thinking in Time: The Uses of History for Decision-Makers, co-authored with Richard E. Neustadt, revolutionized how leaders approach complex problems by applying historical analogies thoughtfully. May's career spanned decades of influential scholarship, including advisory roles in government and contributions to intelligence studies, emphasizing the practical value of history in avoiding pitfalls and seizing opportunities. His legacy endures in the way scholars and policymakers engage with the past to shape the future.