2025 Student Contests: Take a deep dive into American history—and win cash prizes

This spring, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is pleased to offer a series of contests for students in grades 3 through 12. All contests are free to enter, provide cash prizes for the winners, and allow students the opportunity to explore a particular topic, theme, or individual from American history. 

Learn more about each contest below, and please email education@gilderlehrman.org if you have any questions!

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Special Printing of Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom Offered to Title I-eligible Schools

Thanks to the generosity of a group of African American business and civic leaders, the Gilder Lehrman Institute is pleased to present a special offer only for Title I-eligible schools: a Gilder Lehrman Institute-exclusive printing of Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom by David W. Blight.
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David Blight Awarded the 2019 Lincoln Prize for <em>Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom</em>

Gettysburg College and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History have announced that David Blight, author of Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom (Simon & Schuster), is the recipient of the 2019 Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize.
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The 54th Massachusetts Regiment in the Gilder Lehrman Collection

The 54th Regiment from Massachusetts, composed of volunteers, was the first African American regiment organized by the Union Army during the American Civil War. It is perhaps best known for leading the charge on Fort Wagner in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, on July 18, 1863. The regiment suffered devastating losses, but its bravery became a rallying point for the Union Army and inspiration in the recruitment of African American soldiers.
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Introducing Adam Hellebuyck, the 2018 Michigan History Teacher of the Year

Adam Hellebuyck Michigan State History Teacher of the Year
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History Scholar Award for Undergraduates Accepting Applications through April 15

For the 2019 Gilder Lehrman History Scholar Award, up to fifteen outstanding college students will be recognized for excellence in American history or American studies as well as commitment to public service, leadership, and community involvement. For the first time, college freshmen and sophomores students may apply along with juniors and seniors.
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Frederick Douglass Resources

Frederick Douglass, the “Prophet of Freedom,” was a prolific writer and speaker whose legacy of activism continues to inspire the world.
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Recent Press Mentions

Graduation Ceremony Held for the Gettysburg College–Gilder Lehrman MA in American History

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On Saturday, July 15, Gettysburg College celebrated the achievements of graduates of the Gettysburg College–Gilder Lehrman MA in American History.
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International Press for GLI's Spanish-American Curriculum Partnership with the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute

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The Sentinel Interviews Kevin Weddle on Winning the Gilder Lehrman Prize for Military History

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"In today’s 5 Questions, The Sentinel gave Weddle the opportunity to delve deeper into the research and findings of his book that recently earned him the Gilder Lehrman Prize for Military History."
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