R. R. Palmer (1909-2002) was an American historian and professor at Princeton University. He was a leading scholar of French history and a pioneer in the field of diplomatic history. He wrote several influential books, including The Age of the Democratic Revolution: A Political History of Europe and America, 1760-1800 and The World of the French Revolution. He was a recipient of the American Historical Association's Award for Scholarly Distinction and the National Humanities Medal. He was also a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the American Philosophical Society. Palmer's work has been credited with helping to shape the field of diplomatic history and his influence is still felt today.