As a scholar, historian and novelist, Patrick O'Flaherty has been an important contributor to the heritage and culture of his province. Professor emeritus of English at Memorial University of Newfoundland, he introduced courses on Newfoundland literature and was co-founder and editor of the journal Newfoundland and Labrador Studies. His books and articles on political history have been passionate and compelling additions to the study of the island and its pre-Confederation history. A respected promoter of the arts, he has also shared his broad knowledge as a consultant, newspaper columnist and public speaker.