Exploring History Across Borders: UGA’s Collaboration with the University of Liverpool
The University of Georgia (UGA) is fostering global connections to enhance research and expand the impact of social science. One such collaboration is between Dr. Tracey Johnson, OIBR affiliate and assistant professor in UGA’s history department, Dr. Barry Godfrey, professor of social science, and Dr. Katherine Roscoe, criminology lecturer, both at the University of Liverpool. Their joint research, supported by a British Academy fellowship, examines historical prison records and the evolution of incarceration in Georgia.
Dr. Johnson recently participated in a faculty exchange program co-hosted by UGA’s Office of Global Engagement and the Owens Institute for Behavioral Research. This initiative brought together faculty from various disciplines—including creative writing, English, architecture, and social work—to engage with colleagues at the University of Liverpool, fostering new research opportunities and strengthening international partnerships.
Revealing Untold Histories Through Prison Records
Dr. Johnson’s research focuses on Georgia penitentiary records from 1817 to 1970, tracing shifts in prison demographics after the abolition of slavery. Her work highlights how incarceration became a tool of systemic control, with the prison population transitioning from predominantly white to nearly all Black prisoners.
Beyond data analysis, Dr. Johnson is working to humanize these records, uncovering personal stories and connecting with local African American communities to explore the genealogical significance of these documents. This approach aims to provide descendants with historical insights into their ancestors’ experiences.
Bridging the Past and the Present Through Collaboration
The Liverpool exchange allowed for in-person collaboration, which Dr. Johnson found far more productive than virtual meetings, often complicated by time zone differences. Working directly with colleagues strengthened research connections and accelerated progress on their shared projects.
As part of this effort, Dr. Johnson and her team are developing a digital archive, “Ethical Digital Public Histories: Prisoners and the Legacy of Enslavement (1817–1970).” This online resource will make research findings accessible to scholars and the public. The project is expected to launch by 2026, culminating in a public event in Athens, Georgia to engage the local community.
Future Research and Expansion
Dr. Johnson and her colleagues hope to expand their research beyond Georgia, applying for additional grants to extend their analysis to other southeastern states. They also plan to present their findings at the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) conference in Atlanta, furthering discussions on incarceration and racial disparities.
Promoting Global Engagement at UGA
Dr. Johnson emphasized the need for greater visibility of faculty exchange programs, noting that she first learned about the initiative through personal connections rather than formal announcements. In response, the Owens Institute is enhancing outreach through monthly newsletters and expanded online resources to increase faculty awareness and participation in global collaborations.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Johnson expressed excitement about UGA’s growing international partnerships:
“These collaborations open doors for researchers who may not have otherwise connected. It’s inspiring to see how similar work is being done across the world and how we can learn from one another.”
As UGA strengthens its global engagement, faculty-led initiatives like Dr. Johnson’s will pave the way for meaningful research, cross-cultural collaborations, and impactful discoveries.
Written by: Andrea Horsman