Martin Bauml Duberman emerges as a dynamic figure in both historical scholarship and the arts. Renowned for his innovative contributions as a historian and playwright, he has carved out a significant niche within radical academic and activist circles. His works, deeply rooted in social justice themes, have left a lasting impact on literature, theater, and historical study.

Early Life and Academic Journey

Born in New York City to Joseph M. Duberman, a dress manufacturer, and Josephine Duberman, Martin spent his formative years in the suburb of Mount Vernon. He graduated from the Horace Mann School in 1948, laying the foundation for an illustrious academic career. Duberman earned his Bachelor of Arts from Yale University in 1952, followed by a Master’s and a Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1953 and 1957, respectively. He began his teaching career in American history at Yale in 1957, and by 1962 had transitioned to Princeton University's history department. His academic prowess led him to Lehman College, City University of New York, in 1971, where he was appointed Distinguished Professor of History.

Contributions to History and Literature

Duberman's work spans a wide array of topics, reflecting his diverse interests. As a historian, he delved into nineteenth-century American social and intellectual history, radical social movements, and the evolving perceptions of gender roles and sexual ideology. His scholarly pursuits also intersect with his activism, particularly in the realms of gay rights and Civil Rights movements. His writings extensively explore and document these pivotal social changes.

The Martin B. Duberman Papers

The Martin B. Duberman Papers serve as a comprehensive archive of his life's work, capturing his journey from childhood through to 1979. This collection includes a wealth of manuscripts, drafts, personal and professional correspondence, and other memorabilia. His commitment to activism is evident in these papers, which capture the pulse of social unrest in the academic landscape of the 1960s. Duberman's prolific writings, widely published in magazines, newspapers, and journals, are well-documented within this collection, which also includes his organizational roles in the Gay Academic Union, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and Redress.

Pioneering Works and Acclaim

The 1960s marked a turning point in Duberman's career, bringing him national recognition. His play In White America is a striking fusion of his passion for history and theater, focusing on civil rights and the African American quest for freedom in the United States. Drawing from historical documents, the play provides a vivid portrayal of pivotal moments in history. Duberman further examined the intersections of history, historiography, and drama in works such as The Recorder and his book Black Mountain, where he publicly embraced his identity as a homosexual. His influential book Stonewall delves into the genesis of the gay rights movement in the 1960s. Other notable works include About Time and the autobiography Cures, which reflect on his life up to the early 1970s, followed by Midlife Queer.

Recognition and Legacy

Duberman's achievements have earned him numerous accolades. His accolades include a Morse Fellowship at Yale University, an American Council of Learned Societies grant, and the prestigious Bancroft Prize for his work on Charles Francis Adams. He was also a McCosh Faculty Fellow at Princeton University, received a National Book Award nomination for James Russell Lowell, and was granted funds by the Rockefeller Foundation. His biography of Paul Robeson further showcases his diverse interests and contributions to historical literature. Notably, Duberman founded the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies (CLAGS), the pioneering university-based research center in the United States focused on the historical, cultural, and political issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.