This prize is designed to reward distinguished scholarship in the history of American foreign relations, broadly defined. The prize of $1,000 is awarded annually. The Ferrell Prize was established to honor Robert H. Ferrell, professor of diplomatic history at Indiana University from 1953 to 1990, by his former students.
Eligibility
The Ferrell Prize recognizes any book beyond the first monograph by the author. To be considered, a book must deal with the history of American foreign relations, broadly defined. Biographies of statesmen and diplomats are eligible. General surveys, autobiographies, or editions of essays and documents are not eligible. Nominations for the 2027 prize must have been published in 2026.
Procedures
Books may be nominated by the author, the publisher, or any member of SHAFR. Three copies of the book must be submitted. The award is announced during the SHAFR annual conference.
Submission Procedures
To nominate a book published in 2026 for the 2027 prize, please follow the submission guidelines outlined below.
Required Materials
Please provide: (1) Three physical copies of the book (2) A formal letter of nomination
Submission Destination
Email the nomination letter to Amanda McVety, and send a copy of the book being nominated to each of the three committee members below.
Deadline
Books may be sent at any time but must arrive by February 1.
Mailing Destinations for prize Committee Members
Amanda McVety254 Upham Hall; 100 Bishop Circle History Department, Miami University Oxford, OH 45056
Kristin Ahlberg2943 Sheridan Blvd Lincoln, NE 68502
Christy ThorntonDepartment of History King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center 53 Washington Square South, Floor 4E New York, NY 10012
