British historian Niall Ferguson will deliver the keynote address at the History Makers conference early next year, putting the current market turmoil into historical perspective.

Ferguson, seen recently in the PBS/Channel 4 series Ascent of Money, is a professor at both Harvard University and Harvard Business School. He also writes for the Financial Times and has authored books including The Cash Nexus, Colossus and Empire and War of the World.

‘We try to dramatize the connection between today’s headlines and their historical context — Niall’s experience and work as a leading historian will convey that connection to our delegates,’ said conference organizer Bill Nemtin in a release. ‘He brings brilliant analysis to difficult and important issues, and will fascinate the audience at the same time.’

The conference runs Jan. 29-31 in New York City.