# DAR American History Essay Contest

Annual national essay contest from the Daughters of the American Revolution for grades 5-8; the 2026-27 topic celebrates America's 250th birthday. Entries advance from local DAR chapters to state and national judging.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Daughters of the American Revolution |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–8 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Multiple, Multiple States |
| Apply | https://www.dar.org/outreach/education/essay-contests |

## About this program

# DAR American History Essay Contest

The American History Essay Contest is an annual national contest from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) that encourages students in grades 5-8 to think creatively about the nation's history. Each year the national society sets a single topic; the 2026-27 topic marks America's 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, asking students which signer of the Declaration of Independence they would meet for lunch and how that signer's actions contributed to independence.

## What You'll Do

- Research and write an essay of 300-1,000 words (length requirements vary by grade level) on the annual topic
- Submit through a teacher, your school, or directly to your local DAR chapter with the contest submission form
- Advance through chapter, state, division, and national judging rounds
- Earn certificates, medals, and recognition at each level you win

## Who Should Apply

Any US student in grades 5-8 - public, private, or homeschool - whose area has a participating DAR chapter (most do). Chapters set their own fall deadlines, typically around early November; details for the 2026-27 cycle post in August 2026, so contact your local chapter or check the DAR education pages early in the school year.

## Outcomes

Winners at each grade level receive medals and certificates, with state and national honors beyond, and every entrant gets authentic practice in historical research and persuasive writing - a natural early step toward National History Day in high school.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for DAR American History Essay Contest?

DAR American History Essay Contest is open to middle school students in grades 6–8. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is DAR American History Essay Contest online or in person?

DAR American History Essay Contest is an in-person program based in Multiple, Multiple States.

### How do I apply to DAR American History Essay Contest?

Apply directly through Daughters of the American Revolution's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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