DECATUR, Ill. – Millikin University recently won the Russell P. Strange Book of the Year Award from the Illinois State Historical Society at the group’s Annual Awards Banquet in April.
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The book centers on urban renewal and the events of the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, focusing on police brutality, gentrification, and grassroots activism in 1960s Chicago.
“I'm both honored and, frankly, surprised to be getting this award. It means quite a bit to me to have the Illinois State Historical Society recognize the book and, while working on it for some years, I'd never considered it would win something like this,” Mullgardt said. “I'm also grateful for the sabbatical time Millikin granted me on this project, which blended numerous fields of history.”
The Russell P. Strange Memorial Book of the Year Award was established by Darrell and Priscilla Strange Matthews in memory of Priscilla’s father, a noted scholar, educator, past vice president, and lifelong member of the Illinois State Historical Society.
The award is presented annually to one author in recognition of their significant contribution to the study of Illinois history. The criteria for the winning work should cover a significant and relevant aspect of Illinois history, demonstrate strong research and a thorough understanding of the subject matter, be well-written and engaging, and address a topic that is important and timely for the understanding of Illinois history.
“Founded in 1899, the is the foremost history organization in the state,” said Millikin Professor of History Dr. Dan Monroe. “The ISHS awarded Dr. Brian Mullgardt its most prestigious publication prize, the Book of the Year, which is a remarkable professional achievement.”
In August of 1968, approximately 7,000 people protested the Vietnam War against the backdrop of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. This highly televised event began peacefully but quickly turned into what was later termed a “police riot.” Fifty-six years later, the Democratic National Convention returned to Chicago in August 2024.
The Illinois State Historical Society was founded in 1899 to support the Illinois State Historical Library and to encourage research and writing on subjects of Illinois history.
