Ernst A. Breisach

I never met Ernst in the flesh but we had occasional correspondence. He contributed in the mid 90s to a reference book on historiography which I edited.
As someone who has followed in his footsteps as a professional historiographer I always admired the lucidity of his writings. Indeed, the first edition of his textbook 'Historiography' appeared in 1983, just as I finished my doctoral dissertation at Oxford. I have bought and used, in class and research, its subsequent editions. While I...

I met Dr. Breisach for the first time in Cincinnati at the AHA conference in 1988. In the decades that followed, I became his colleague. Even though he was no longer the chair of the department, he went out of his way to nurture young scholars like me. I am very grateful. After retirement, he still came to his office regularly. Recently, he took an interest in Chinese history and historiography, especially the work of Sima Qian. I was fortunate to be able to have many conversations with him...

I was part of the Hist Dept. for five years and Ernst's daughter, Nora, was one of my students. I will always remember Ernst as a gentleman who cared deeply about his colleagues and students. He was both a friend and mentor to me. I owe him much.

I taught in the History Dept. for five years. His daughter, Nora, was one of my students. I will always always remember Ernst as a gentleman and someone who cared deeply for his fellow faculty members and his students. I owe him much.

Dr. Breisach was one of the most formative intellectual influences of my undergraduate history major. His course on methodology introduced me to the craft and dangers of history as well as our own ethical choices as authors. He modeled both critical and moral thinking as well as elegant kindness.

the WMU history students of the late 50's were honored to be in Dr. Breisanch's class. He was such a great teacher and gentleman scholar. Later in life I was again fortunate to worship with him at St.Luke's. Sympathy to his family in their loss. Mary Drinkard Hager

I was Nora's 3rd grade teacher at Westwood Elementary in Kalamazoo. I remember Eric, too. Lovely family- I send my caring and love

I will always remember Ernst as the kindest gentleman and friend.

I am so saddened to read of the passing of Dr. Breisach. As a student in the Department of History of WMU I consider it an honor to have taken courses with Dr. Breisach. He was not only an amazing historian but a true gentleman that treated his students with kindness, respect, and care. I send my deepest condolences to Dr. Breisach's family, friends, and colleagues. Sending thoughts for peace, healing, and comfort at this difficult time.