Innovation and Tradition: Dr. Jon Malinowski's Perspective on West Point's Historical Landscape

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact, explore the fascinating intersection of history, innovation, and geography at West Point with Dr. Jon Malinowski. With nearly 30 years of experience as a senior civilian faculty member, Dr. Malinowski shares valuable insights into understanding the past through a fresh lens and leveraging modern technology to visualize historical landscapes. Dr. Malinowski takes us on a fascinating journey as he highlights what brings meaning to places and the geographic transformation at West Point within the national context. From mentoring junior faculty to countless hours in the archives, Dr. Malinowski provides a window into his tireless efforts to bring geography—past and present—alive.  Lastly, don’t miss out on his newest book with the West Point Press, The West Point Landscape: 1802-1860. 

00:00 Welcome to the Show: Introducing Dr. John Malinowski 

00:11 Digging into Dr. Malinowski's Background and Expertise 

00:49 Unveiling the Secrets of Historical Research 

02:34 A Deep Dive into West Point's Geography and History 

07:14 Correcting Common Historical Inaccuracies about West Point 

11:34 Exploring the Gothic Revival and Landscape Changes at West Point 

12:47 The Significance of Landscape in Geography and Personal Connection 

14:49 Inspiration and Meaning: Dr. Malinowski's Connection to West Point 

17:30 A Scholarly Journey: Dr. Malinowski's Contributions and Latest Book 

22:10 Unusual Collaborations and Insights into West Point's Infrastructure 

22:49 The Evolution of Infrastructure and Architecture at West Point 

23:53 Exploring Unbuilt West Point: The Projects That Never Were 

26:19 Innovation and Historical Geography: Bridging Past and Future 

28:42 The Unique Blend of Military and Academic Life at West Point 

32:03 Mentoring and the Impact of Junior Faculty at West Point 

36:31 Understanding 'Place': A Geographer's Perspective 

39:56 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Preferences 

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Resources:  

• The West Point Landscape: 1802-1860 — West Point Press 

Learn more:      

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics       
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP    
• Learn more about the Department of Geography and Environmental Engineering: Geography and Environmental Engineering | United States Military Academy West Point 

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 Credits:    

• Guest: Dr. Dr. Jon Malinowski, Professor of Geography  (https://www.westpoint.edu/geography-and-environmental-engineering/profile/jon_malinowski) 
• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves, USMA Dean (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)   
• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information   
• Production: Growth Network Podcasts (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)   
• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)   

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.