Dan David Prize Reveals 2026 History Prize Laureates

The Dan David Prize has announced its 2026 winners, honoring nine historians and archaeologists. Each recipient will receive $300,000 for their exceptional research on the human past. This accolade supports their future projects. Their work spans diverse topics, from intercommunal violence in the Balkans to the origins of theme parks.

Selected by an international committee, winners hail from continents including the Americas and Europe. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Prize’s focus on historical research. Over these years, it has awarded over $13.5 million to 45 scholars globally.

Ariel David emphasized the impact of the Prize on winners' careers and research, fostering new historical insights. The 2026 laureates’ contributions include examining medieval cathedrals, Inca roads, and racial narratives, expanding our understanding of the past.