The Western History Association recognizes the best dissertation on the history of the North American West, in its varied aspects and broadest sense, defended and filed in the preceding calendar year. (For example, all dissertations defended and filed in 2020 will be eligible for the 2021 prize.) The prize consists of a $500 award and a plaque. Authors of eligible dissertations must be a member of the WHA at the time of submission.

For the 2021 award cycle, submit the following to awards@westernhistory.org: 1) a cover letter with contact information including name, affiliation, and preferred email address and 2) the dissertation, which should include an abstract. 

-2021 Awards Cycle opens June 21, 2021

-2021 Award Submission Deadline: July 16, 2021

The WHA office will notify the 2021 recipient in mid-September.