David McCullough Essay Prizes
The Gilder Lehrman Institute is currently accepting submissions for the David McCullough Essay Prizes. This prestigious contest aims to recognize exceptional high school student research and interpretive essays. The contest is named in honor of David McCullough, a renowned historian and Pulitzer Prize winner who served as a Life Trustee of the Gilder Lehrman Institute.
Interested in the competition?
Competition Overview
High school students attending schools in their Affiliate School Program
Eligibility
Free
Entry fee
December 16 - TBD
Submission deadline
Competition Details
1. Overview
The Gilder Lehrman Institute is currently accepting submissions for the David McCullough Essay Prizes. This prestigious contest aims to recognize exceptional high school student research and interpretive essays. The contest is named in honor of David McCullough, a renowned historian and Pulitzer Prize winner who served as a Life Trustee of the Gilder Lehrman Institute.
2. Eligibility
High school students attending schools in their Affiliate School Program are eligible and encouraged to participate.
3. Prizes
- 1st Prize: $5,000 (plus a $500 prize awarded to the school)
- 2nd Prize: $1,500 (plus a $500 prize awarded to the school)
- Five 3rd Prizes: $500 each
Submission Details
1. Submission Rule
The essay should fall within a word count range of 1,500 to 2,500 words. Students can submit their work in 2 categories:
- Research Essay: Research essay incorporating primary and secondary sources on a topic in American history from 1491 to 2001.
- Interpretive Essay: Analysis of one primary source from American history, 1491 to 2001, in the Gilder Lehrman Collection of more than 85,000 historical documents.
