The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History invites college sophomores and juniors with a serious interest in American history, and academic excellence in the field, to apply for one of:

• 15 History Scholarships that encompass a six-week residential research program in New York City running from June 19 to July 30, 2005.

• And up to 50 awards for runners-up, who will be named Finalists and invited to an all-expenses-paid, one-week program in New York City from June 4 to June 11, 2005.

History Scholars receive a stipend of $2,400, along with room, board, and travel expenses for a six-week program in New York City (June 19 to July 30, 2005). Scholars conduct primary-source research to prepare historical materials for publication. They also participate in weekly meetings with eminent historians to discuss historical issues and gain insight into history as a profession. (In the past these sessions have been led by Eric Foner, Kenneth T. Jackson, James McPherson, Sean Wilentz, Christine Stansell, Steve Hahn, Steven Mintz, Ron Chernow and Catherine Clinton, among others.) A third component of the program is weekly behind-the-scenes visits, led by archivists, to leading repositories of American historical documents, printed books, and material culture.

History Scholar Finalists not selected for the six-week program will be invited to an all-expenses-paid, one-week program (June 4 to June 11, 2005) that aims to foster an interest in American history through field trips, discussions with professionals about careers for history majors, and lectures by leading scholars such as David Brion Davis, James McPherson, and Pauline Maier.

Eligibility: At the time of application, students must be considered sophomores or juniors in an accredited college or university in the U.S. or Canada, should have completed at least one course in American history, and should expect to major in that field.

Applications must be postmarked by March 1, 2005 and include:

1. A signed cover letter (1-2 pages) describing your interest in this program and providing the following information: name, college/university, campus and permanent mailing addresses, campus and permanent telephone numbers, e-mail address, and the names of your two recommenders.

2. A resume or C.V. and an official college transcript.

3. A sample of your historical writing. (This should be no more than 5 double-spaced pages and can be drawn from class assignments or independent work.)

4. Two letters of recommendation by faculty members, at least one of whom is a professor of American history.

   Send application materials to:

   History Scholars Program
   The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
   601 West 110th Street, Suite 4M
   New York, NY 10025

   No faxed or electronically transmitted applications will be accepted.

   All applicants will be automatically considered for both the six-week and one-week programs. No separate application is necessary.

   Notifications will be mailed by April 8, 2005.

   For more information about applications, e-mail or phone (e-mail address and telephone number provided below).

   For more information about the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, visit www.gilderlehrman.org