Christian History, a magazine advised by Jonathan Den Hartog, professor of history and the chair of Samford University’s Department of History, won an award from the Evangelical Press Association this spring.
Den Hartog gave guidance on the articles involved, providing editorial feedback and also contributed to the magazine. The issue from spring of 2021 was titled “America’s Book: How the Bible Helped Shape a Nation.”
“It was a real honor to be asked to be the scholar-advisor for this particular issue, on the Bible and the American Nation. Working with the editor, Jennifer Woodruff Tait, we conceptualized the entire issue, organized articles, and recruited authors,” Den Hartog said. “Then, I helped to review each submission for accuracy and for the issue’s theme and tone. Finally, I offered feedback as the magazine was laid out and prepared for press.”
The magazine was awarded a 3rd place award in the “Higher Goals Competition.” The award came in the “Single-Theme Issue” category.
“I’m delighted with this national recognition of Den Hartog’s first-rate historical scholarship. His contribution to this highly regarded publication with a national circulation advances the efforts of academic historians to bring their sound and rigorous work to a larger public,” said Tim Hall, dean of Samford’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences.
This issue represented one way of sharing historical knowledge with the broader public. Den Hartog said he was pleased to have the opportunity to rally many scholars to tell important stories about how the Scriptures have shaped American life.
“Conceptualizing a wide-ranging issue like this one—one that embraced all eras of American history—was challenging. I’m pleased to have been prepared to offer a view that was very broad chronologically,” Den Hartog said.
Hall hopes this accomplishment will encourage and inspire students taking classes within the history department that they are being taught by not only experts in their respective field, but great teachers as well.
“Den Hartog is gaining increasing recognition as a thoughtful Christian public intellectual, and this award confirms the quality of his scholarship and his insights on the role of faith in American history and life,” Hall said.
