David Waldstreicher, the author of the recently published biography “The Odyssey of Phillis Wheatley: A Poet’s Journey Through American Slavery and Independence,” has been granted a prestigious $50,000 history award. This notable book sheds light on the life and work of Phillis Wheatley, one of the early prominent poets in America. Wheatley, the first African American woman to publish a book, gained widespread acclaim during her time, with notable figures like George Washington being among her admirers.

The George Washington Prize, which recognizes exceptional works related to the Revolutionary War era, has been awarded to David Waldstreicher for his insightful portrayal of Phillis Wheatley’s life. The prize is a collaborative effort by Washington College, the Gilder Lehman Institute of American History, and the caretakers of Washington’s estate in Mount Vernon, Virginia. Doug Bradburn, president and CEO of Mount Vernon, emphasized Wheatley’s extraordinary journey from being enslaved by a Boston merchant family to achieving recognition as a groundbreaking poet. He praised Waldstreicher’s biography for offering a comprehensive account of Wheatley’s life and contributions, providing valuable insights into America’s intricate history.

Phillis Wheatley’s poetic works were known for their fearless exploration of challenging themes such as slavery and dissent against British rule. George Washington himself, a revered figure in American history, held Wheatley in high regard, appreciating her literary talent and resilience. The George Washington Prize, established in 2005, has previously been awarded to distinguished authors like Ron Chernow, Annette Gordon-Reed, and Rick Atkinson for their exceptional contributions to Revolutionary War era literature. Through Waldstreicher’s award-winning biography, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the life and legacy of Phillis Wheatley, gaining a richer understanding of her impact on American literature and history.