M. E. Sharpe: A Legacy of Academic Publishing
Founded on a commitment to cross-cultural intellectual exchange, M. E. Sharpe, Inc. established itself as a cornerstone of academic publishing. From its early days focusing on the translation of foreign scholarship to its expansion into a diverse array of nonfiction disciplines, the firm played a vital role in bringing global perspectives to English-speaking audiences.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1958 by Myron Emanuel Sharpe.
- Origin: Started as International Arts and Sciences Press in New York City.
- Core Focus: Social sciences, humanities, business management, and public administration.
- Notable Imprints: East Gate Books and Sharpe Reference.
- Current Status: Acquired by Routledge in 2014.
Evolution of a Publishing House
The company began in 1958 with a specific mission: publishing translation journals focused on the social sciences and humanities of Russia, with a strong emphasis on international studies. This niche allowed scholars to access critical research that was previously unavailable in English.
Throughout the 1960s, the firm expanded its translation projects beyond Russian, incorporating other European languages, as well as Chinese and Japanese. This growth solidified its reputation as a bridge between global academic communities.
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Expansion into Books and Periodicals
By the 1980s, M. E. Sharpe significantly grew its book division. The publisher eventually reached a capacity of producing approximately 60 new titles annually. Its catalog expanded to cover a wide range of academic fields, including economics, political science, history, literature, business, management, and public administration.
In addition to books, the firm manages over 35 periodicals. Notable publications include Challenge: The Magazine of Economic Affairs, the Journal of Management Information Systems, the International Journal of Electronic Commerce, the Journal of Post-Keynesian Economics, and Problems of Post-Communism.
Specialized Imprints and Distinguished Authors
M. E. Sharpe developed specialized imprints to target specific academic and educational needs. East Gate Books became widely recognized for its excellence in Asian Studies, while Sharpe Reference was launched in 1995. The latter provided essential reference materials tailored for general readers, undergraduates, and high school students, focusing on American and global studies.
To adapt to the digital age, the company launched Sharpe Online Reference, offering electronic editions of its updated reference sets.
The publisher's prestige is reflected in its roster of authors, which includes Nobel Prize winners Kenzaburō Ōe and Wassily Leontief, as well as the acclaimed American novelist Howard Fast, known for writing Spartacus.
Corporate History and Acquisition
Originally operating as the International Arts and Sciences Press in New York City, the firm spent twelve years in the city before relocating to White Plains, New York. Since 1980, the company has been headquartered in Armonk, New York.
After decades of independent operation, M. E. Sharpe was sold to the global publishing giant Routledge in 2014.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founder | Myron Emanuel Sharpe |
| Founded Year | 1958 |
| Headquarters | Armonk, New York |
| Primary Subjects | Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Public Administration |
| Acquisition Year | 2014 (by Routledge) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded M. E. Sharpe?
The company was founded by Myron Emanuel Sharpe in 1958.
What was the original purpose of the company?
It was originally established to publish translation journals from the Russian social sciences and humanities, focusing specifically on international studies.
What are the most notable imprints of M. E. Sharpe?
The most notable imprints are East Gate Books, which specializes in Asian Studies, and Sharpe Reference, which provides academic reference materials.
Which famous authors have been published by M. E. Sharpe?
The publisher has worked with Nobel Prize winners Kenzaburō Ōe and Wassily Leontief, as well as novelist Howard Fast.
What happened to M. E. Sharpe in 2014?
In 2014, M. E. Sharpe was sold to the academic publisher Routledge.