The story of World War II is still being written. Each new wave of scholarship brings deeper insight and sharper interpretation to the war that changed the world. To support this work, The National WWII Museum has launched annual book awards, advancing its mission to keep the war’s history alive for all generations.

The awards will honor the most outstanding English-language nonfiction books on WWII history published each year. Executive director of the Jenny Craig Institute for the Study of War and Democracy at The National WWII Museum Michael S. Bell says the initiative comes at an important time. Of the more than 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II, fewer than 45,000, or less than half of 1%, are still alive. “As the WWII generation passes on, first-hand memories of the war fade, and rigorous, compelling scholarship becomes essential to preserving their lived experiences and conveying the impact significance of the war in relevant and engaging ways,” Bell, who has a doctorate in American history, says. “Outstanding nonfiction scholarship plays a critical role in helping the public understand why World War II was fought, how it was won, and what it means today.”

Authors may submit in two categories. The Best Book in WWII History Award carries a $50,000 prize. First-time authors may submit for the Best Debut Book in WWII History Award, with a $10,000 prize.

The program is part of the museum’s broader Victory’s Promise campaign, a ten-year initiative focused on expanding educational outreach, renewing its commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of the WWII generation, and becoming the most accessible source for trusted knowledge on the American experience in World War II.

The inaugural awards aim to spotlight new works that advance WWII scholarship through fresh research, innovative arguments, and compelling storytelling. “We hope to encourage the next generation of authors and historians in the field and help broaden the scope of WWII history through scholarship that reflects the full complexity and global impact of the war,” Bell says.

While traditional military histories remain essential, Bell notes that recent scholarship has increasingly examined the war’s broader effects on societies, economies, political systems, and individuals. “These evolving perspectives give audiences new ways to engage with WWII history, deepening understanding of its legacies and helping learners of all ages connect with these stories,” he says.

Submissions will be evaluated by selection committees comprised of leading scholars and educators connected to the museum, who are seeking works that combine strong literary merit with original research and thoughtful interpretations of established topics.

Complementing the award for Best Book, Bell observes the Best Debut Book category is central to the program’s goals. “Early-career historians are often at the forefront of the latest research and may push the historical field into new understandings with their original perspectives and approaches,” he says. “However, they may lack the visibility or institutional support available to more established scholars.” The debut award aims to support emerging historians bringing their work to broader audiences, and to strengthen the field as a whole.

The awards are part of the museum’s wide slate of initiatives, including distance learning and digital programming, designed to reach audiences far beyond its New Orleans campus.

Award submissions for books published in 2026 must be received by December 31, 2026. Finalists and awardees will be announced publicly the following spring, and the winning authors in both categories will be hosted at The National WWII Museum later in the year to participate in a public program discussing their work.

Find out more about the World War II Book Awards here.