About the Competition
- The World Historian Student Essay Competition is an initiative designed to encourage and recognize the scholarly works of students interested in history from a global perspective.
- Scope and Eligibility: The World Historian Student Essay Competition is a global contest open to students in grades K–12 attending public, private, parochial schools, or home-study programs. Participation does not require World History Association (WHA) membership. Previous winners cannot compete in the same category.
- Prize: The competition awards a $500 prize and includes a one-year WHA membership for the winner.
Essay Topic
- Participants should write an essay that personalizes world history, whether through a family story linked to a historical event, personal cultural background, or a matter of personal or regional historical significance.
Judging Criteria
- Clear Thesis: Establishment of a clear and focused argument or perspective.
- Elaboration: Detailed support for the thesis with specific, personal examples.
- Critical Thinking: Demonstration of analytical skills, including synthesis and evaluation.
- Organization: Logical structuring and fluent progression of ideas.
- Communication: Effectiveness in conveying a personal connection to world history and how it has shaped the writer’s perspective.
Submission Guidelines
- Length and Formatting: Essays should be around 1,000 words, double-spaced, in 12-point Times New Roman font, with 1-inch margins. Use Microsoft Word for composition.
- Anonymity: The paper must not display the author’s identity. A separate page with the author’s details (name, address, email, school) should accompany the submission.
- Deadline: Submissions must be emailed or postmarked by 1 May annually.