Cedric Cowing grew up in Pasadena, California. His father, George, was a newspaperman known for his column, “The Boulevardier,” which often featured young Cedric, affectionately called “the Major.” After high school, Cedric entered naval officers’ training, but the end of World War II led to his discharge. Thanks to the G.I. Bill, he attended Stanford, becoming the first in his family to graduate from college. There, he developed a keen interest in the stock market and studied economics.
Later, Cedric pursued a PhD at the University of Wisconsin, shifting his focus to social and intellectual history. His thesis became his first book, Populists, Plungers, and Progressives: a Social History of Stocks and Commodity Speculation, 1828-1932.
In 1957, just two years before Hawaii gained statehood, Cedric joined the History Department at the University of Hawaii. He taught U.S. History there for four decades and helped bring other Wisconsin graduates into the department. Influenced by his father’s writing, Cedric valued clear and engaging language, encouraging his students to do the same. Over time, his research focused on American religion during the colonial period. Two notable works, The Great Awakening and the American Revolution and The Saving Remnant: Religion and the Settling of New England, brought new insights into the role of religion in early America. His theories have been widely recognized in academic circles.
After his retirement in 1997, Cedric remained active in education, judging student essays for Hawaii History Day. He also engaged in local politics, often contributing letters to the editor. Cedric had hoped to write a piece addressing misconceptions about the First Amendment and the religious diversity of colonial America.
Beyond academics, Cedric was passionate about trains and an avid supporter of the University of Hawaii’s athletic teams. Friends remember him for his integrity, sense of humor, and genuine interest in others’ stories. Sunday dinners at his home were a cherished tradition. Cedric is survived by his wife, Sue, and their son, James, who resides in Portland.
Cedric’s life is a reminder of the impact one person can have on their community and the importance of clear communication in education and beyond.
