Princeton Historian Allen Guelzo Awarded 2025 Buckley Prize for Excellence in American History

On July 7, 2025, Dr. Allen C. Guelzo, a distinguished scholar and public commentator on American history, was awarded the prestigious Walter W. Buckley Jr. Prize in American History. The award, bestowed by the Driving Force Institute for Public Engagement (DFI), highlights Guelzo’s unwavering commitment to enhancing historical knowledge among learners throughout the nation.

Dr. Guelzo serves as the Thomas W. Smith Distinguished Research Scholar and leads the Initiative on Politics and Statesmanship in the James Madison Program at Princeton University. His impressive academic trajectory includes a significant period as Director of Civil War Era Studies and the Henry R. Luce Professor of the Civil War Era at Gettysburg College. He holds both a Master’s and a Ph.D. in history from the University of Pennsylvania, positioning him as a leading figure in the field.

The Buckley Prize, named after the late Walter W. Buckley Jr., a dedicated advocate for American history and philanthropy, aims to honor individuals who have made substantial contributions to the understanding of the U.S. Guelzo’s longstanding impact on higher education has made him a gold standard for teaching American history. According to Dr. Patrick Riccards, CEO of DFI, Guelzo’s work exemplifies the importance of fostering a deeper understanding of America’s past among diverse audiences.

Guelzo’s literary contributions include the award-winning title Gettysburg: The Last Invasion, which achieved bestseller status and garnered multiple accolades, including the Lincoln Prize and the Guggenheim-Lehrman Prize in Military History. His recent work, Robert E. Lee: A Life, was also recognized among the Wall Street Journal's top books of 2021. His influence extends beyond publications, as Guelzo was recognized by Power Line as one of America’s 100 top professors, emphasizing his exceptional impact as an educator.

In expressing his gratitude for the award, Dr. Guelzo remarked on his respect for Walter Buckley, acknowledging the importance of understanding America’s evolving narrative. He articulated the view that current generations have the responsibility to continue this narrative, suggesting that historical awareness plays a pivotal role in shaping the future.

Additionally, Guelzo has elected to donate his cash prize to Tolson's Chapel located in Sharpsburg, Maryland. This chapel, founded in 1866 by African Americans, serves as a historic site that commemorates the struggles for freedom and education during the Reconstruction era. It has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark, further cementing its significance in U.S. history.

As a living testament to the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation and the ongoing story of America, Tolson's Chapel continues to inspire visitors and scholars alike. Dr. Guelzo's contributions through this award not only recognize his achievements, but they also reflect a commitment to preserving and promoting an essential aspect of American heritage. Through his scholarship, he reminds us that understanding our past is crucial in crafting a more informed future.

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