The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Overview
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of American history. Founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, the institute is headquartered in New York City. It is renowned for its extensive collection of documents and partnerships with educational institutions across the United States. The institute offers a variety of programs and resources aimed at enhancing history education for K-12 teachers and students. Through initiatives like the Hamilton Education Program and extensive digital resources, the institute supports the teaching of history in schools nationwide.
Recent Developments
- December 2024: The institute opened applications for its 2024 Scholarly Fellowship Program, further supporting historical research by offering fellowships to scholars in the field of American History.
- Summer 2024: Expansion of the MA in American History program to include community college instructors and a new MA+15/30 course offering, reflecting the institute's commitment to educating a broader audience of educators.
- May 2024: The Gilder Lehrman Institute partnered with the National Cemetery Administration for the Veterans Legacy Program, providing professional development focused on integrating veterans’ and service members’ histories into classroom education.
- Spring 2024: The institute continued its partnership with the Hamilton Education Program, allowing students across the U.S. to submit creative projects for a chance to win trips to see "Hamilton" on Broadway.
- Early 2024: Hosted and supported various awards including the History Teacher of the Year and the Hamilton Education Program's creative competition winners, showcasing the continued emphasis on elevating history education and recognizing educators.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1994 |
| Headquarters | New York City, New York, USA |
| Founders | Richard Gilder, Lewis E. Lehrman |
| Industry | Education |
| Key Investors | Rockefeller Foundation, NEH |
Early History
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History was founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, long-time benefactors of American history education. With a mission to create a deeper understanding of American history through educational programs and preservation of documents, the institute began by amassing a significant collection of historical documents known as the Gilder Lehrman Collection. This collection includes more than 86,000 items documenting the social, political, and economic history of America from the colonial times to the present.
Company Profile and Achievements
The Gilder Lehrman Institute's business model is based on creating educational opportunities and resources for teachers and students of American history. Their programs include scholarships, professional development workshops, and fellowships. The institute offers:
- Hamilton Education Program: Engaging students with the historical backgrounds of the musical "Hamilton," helping them explore primary sources to create original works.
- History Teacher of the Year Award: Recognizes excellence in history education across the United States.
- Gettysburg College Partnership: Offers an affordable online Master of Arts in American History, bringing leading historians to a wider audience of educators.
- Significant Prizes: The Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize and Frederick Douglass Book Prize, contributing to scholarly work recognition in history domains.
- Educational Resources: Provides a wealth of resources including lesson plans, essays, and digital exhibitions to enhance history education.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, the institute is a leader in nonprofit history education with robust partnerships with various educational and historical organizations. It effectively uses grants and collaborations to expand its educational reaches, such as its ongoing projects with the National Endowment for the Humanities. The institute's online platforms make its vast resources accessible globally, enhancing its market position by serving as a critical resource for educators.
Conclusion
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History plays a vital role in broadening the scope and reach of American history education. By hosting a massive collection of historical documents and providing impactful educational programs, the institute fosters a deeper understanding of American history among educators and students. Its future initiatives, focusing on wider inclusivity and digital expansion, suggest that the institute will continue to be a pivotal presence in history education, adapting and responding to the evolving needs of educators and scholars.