The National Society of Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) invites all high school students in grades 9 through 12 who are interested in the American Revolution to participate in the Knight Essay Contest.

Students must submit an original essay between 800 and 1,200 words based upon an event, person, philosophy or ideal associated with the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence or establishment of the U.S. Constitution.

The essays will be evaluated for historical accuracy, clarity, organization, grammar, spelling and documentation/research which means the use of a minimum of five outside sources, three of which must be published sources and not internet or encyclopedia sources. These resources should be identified in the bibliography.

The contest is conducted at three levels: a local chapter, the state level and ultimately, the national level.

Cash prizes include:

  • $100-$200 to the local winner
  • $500 for first, $200 for second and $100 for third to the state winner
  • $6,000 for first, $3,000 for second, $2,000 for third and $500 each for fourth and fifth places to the national winner

The deadline for local submission is Dec. 31, 2022.

For more information and contest rules, visit the SAR Knight Essay Webpage.