Richard W. Leopold Prize

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: OCTOBER 3, 2011

The Richard W. Leopold Prize was designed to improve contacts and interrelationships within the historical profession where an increasing number of history-trained scholars hold distinguished positions in governmental agencies. This prize recognizes the significant historical work being done by historians outside academe. The Leopold Prize is given by the Organization of American Historians every two years for the best book on foreign policy, military affairs, the historical activities of the federal government or biography by a government historian. These subjects cover the concerns and the historical fields of activity of the late Professor Leopold, who was President of the Organization of American Historians 1976-1977.

The winner must have been employed in a government position for at least five years. If the author has accepted an academic position, the book must have been published within two years from the time of the change. Verification of current or past employment with the government must be included with each entry.

Each entry must be published during the two-year period January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2011.

The award will be presented at the 2012 Annual Meeting of the OAH in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, April 19-22.

Submission Procedures

One copy of each entry, clearly labeled “2012 Richard W. Leopold Prize,” must be mailed directly to the committee members listed below. Each committee member must receive all submissions by October 3, 2011.

Verification of current or past employment with the government must be included with each entry.

Bound page proofs may be used for books to be published after October 1, 2011 and before January 1, 2012. If a bound page proof is submitted, a bound copy of the book must be received no later than January 7, 2012. (Please see “Submission Policy.”)

If a book carries a copyright date that is different from the publication date, but the actual publication date falls during the correct timeframe making it eligible, please include a letter of explanation from the publisher with each copy of the book sent to the committee members.

The final decision will be made by the Richard W. Leopold Prize Committee by February 1, 2012. The winner will be provided with details regarding the OAH Annual Meeting and awards presentation, where s/he will receive a cash award and a plaque.

Richard W. Leopold Prize Committee

Darlene Richardson (Committee Chair)
7553 Alleghany Road
Manassas, VA 20111
Affiliation: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Brenda Gayle Plummer
3021 Stamford Place
Fitchburg, WI 53711
Affiliation: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Timothy P. Townsend
Historian, Lincoln Home National Historic Site
413 South Eighth Street
Springfield, IL 62701-1905

List of Past Winners