By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns has been awarded the inaugural David M. Rubenstein Prize for the Advancement of American History, a $250,000 honor presented by The New York Historical.
Jury cites broad impact
A jury that includes Pulitzer Prize winners Annette Gordon-Reed and Jon Meacham selected Burns for work that “reflects our highest aspirations.” His films have covered the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Vietnam War, bringing national history to a wide audience.
Award established by philanthropist
The prize was created this year by financier and philanthropist David M. Rubenstein, who also owns the Baltimore Orioles. In a statement, the 73-year-old Burns said he was “hugely appreciative and humbled,” noting that his films rely on generations of historians and archivists.
