This document profiles the eight recipients of the 2009 National Humanities Medal: Robert A. Caro, Annette Gordon-Reed, David Levering Lewis, William H. McNeill, Philippe de Montebello, Albert H. Small, Theodore C. Sorensen, and Elie Wiesel. Each section details the medalist's significant contributions to the humanities, their background, major works, and lasting impact. Robert A. Caro is recognized for his biographies of Robert Moses and Lyndon B. Johnson, focusing on political power. Annette Gordon-Reed is honored for her groundbreaking work on the Hemings family and Thomas Jefferson, and her contributions to African American history. David Levering Lewis is celebrated for his definitive biographies of W.E.B. Du Bois and his studies on various historical subjects. William H. McNeill is recognized as a pioneer in world history, particularly for "The Rise of the West." Philippe de Montebello is lauded for his three-decade tenure as director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, expanding its collections and public engagement with art. Albert H. Small is acknowledged for his philanthropy and extensive collection of American historical documents, which he has donated to institutions like the University of Virginia Library. Theodore C. Sorensen is celebrated as a pivotal speechwriter for John F. Kennedy, known for crafting inspiring presidential addresses. Finally, Elie Wiesel is honored for his lifelong work as a Holocaust survivor, author of "Night," and advocate for human rights through the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. The document highlights the diverse ways these individuals have deepened the nation's understanding of the humanities.
