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Professor Apollon B. Davidson Celebrates 95th Birthday
© HSE UNIVERSITY
September 1 marks the 95th anniversary of Apollon B. Davidson, a distinguished Russian historian and expert in African studies, Tenured Professor at HSE University, and Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences. His colleagues extend their heartfelt congratulations and birthday wishes.
Professor, Academic Supervisor, School of History, HSE Faculty of Humanities; Director, Centre for Modern Russian History
— Apollon Davidson: a name that brings to mind a long list of academic degrees, honorary titles, awards, authored books, and much more. However, for anyone who knows him personally, these accomplishments come second, as above all, Professor Davidson is a remarkable personality. His captivating charm, friendliness, ease of communication, modesty, profound integrity, and, of course, wisdom are just a few of the qualities that make knowing him feel like a true gift. Dear Professor Davidson, Happy Birthday! Wishing you good health and many more years to come!
Academic Supervisor, HSE University
— I have always believed that HSE University is defined by the people who shape it through their academic accomplishments, teaching excellence, discoveries, and social contributions. Professor Davidson is a person who has contributed immensely to the advancement of both historical science and HSE University. As a historian, he did not just write about history—he made history with his entire life. May this continue for many years to come. Wishing you good health, many more years, and exciting discoveries ahead.
Associate Professor, School of History, HSE Faculty of Humanities
— I first met Professor Davidson in 2006 at a conference in St. Petersburg. To be honest, approaching him and introducing myself was daunting, and I felt a profound sense of awe. As a student, I studied his books, which I held in highest regard, and I often imagined how he might respond to my early academic papers. After introducing myself to Professor Davidson and sharing my interests, I was met with his genuine attention and sincere interest. He offered me the opportunity to collaborate with the IWH RAS Centre for African Studies, where he is the academic supervisor to this day.
I can say without exaggeration that this meeting was pivotal in shaping my academic career. Working under Professor Davidson taught me not only about academic work but also how to relate to others. Because nothing is more valuable in life than the people around you. One of the key qualities I discovered in Professor Davidson through my work at his Centre is his remarkable ability to bring together talented and exceptional people. How he managed to maintain a balance between the warm, almost family-like atmosphere at the Centre and the rigorous academic work remains a mystery to me. Professor Davidson's authority embodies wisdom, understanding, and humanity—a rare combination of qualities seldom found in people, both in the past and present.
Please forgive me for not focusing more on Professor Davidson's scholarly achievements—his books and recognition in academic circles both in and outside Russia speak for themselves. However, the most important lesson I have learned from nearly 20 years of acquaintance with him is to always strive to remain a decent human being, and everything else will follow.
Professor, Director, International Centre of Anthropology, School of History, HSE Faculty of Humanities; Corresponding Member, Russian Academy of Sciences
— The history of African studies in Russia and Professor Davidson are inseparable. He has been an integral part of this history throughout nearly its entire course. This alone can define the uniqueness of Professor Davidson's role in the study of Africa in our country. Professor Davidson is a living bridge between African studies in the Soviet Union and contemporary Russia, connecting the Leningrad-St. Petersburg and Moscow schools of African studies, as well as linking Russian and international perspectives on the field. A student of Dmitry Olderogge, the founder of African studies in Russia, Professor Davidson has himself mentored a cohort of eminent researchers of African history. Professor Davidson is more than just an outstanding scholar and teacher; he is also a remarkable individual, distinguished by his exceptional culture, intelligence, and charm. This makes interacting with him truly unforgettable. I am immensely grateful that for many years, Professor Davidson has given me the joy of associating with him. I wish Professor Davidson and his wonderful spouse, Lyudmila, good health, and I also hope that all of us—colleagues and friends of Professor Davidson—continue to have intellectually, mentally, and spiritually enriching encounters with this remarkable person.
In his autobiographical book I Love You: Pages of Life, Professor Davidson writes, 'The best thing life has given me is friends.' He also adds, 'I wish to never lose interest in life and to be able to enjoy it to the end. I'm an optimist, of course, because what's the point of being anything else?'