The Gilder Lehrman Institute announces a new contest, 50 States, 1 Nation, for fourth and fifth graders for the 2019–2020 school year. (Students in grade 6 are also eligible to enter if they are currently enrolled in an elementary or K–8 school, and they are studying U.S. history.) The goal is to help expand students’ understanding of how their families, towns, and states connect with each other and with American history. Students will have the opportunity to hone their analytical and creative writing skills through one of three means of expression: essay (3–5 paragraphs), short story/historical fiction) (3–5 paragraphs), or poem (not to exceed 12 lines). All participants will receive a certificate of participation. Selected entries will be recognized with cash prizes and publications by the Gilder Lehrman Institute. To be considered for the 2019–2020 program year, entries must be received by March 30, 2020. For more information, click here.