Definition of Pulitzer Prize

In any area of ​​the creativity It is usual to give a prize or award to people who stand out for their contributions. The Pulitzer Prizes are one of the most prestigious recognitions in the Anglo-Saxon world. They have been awarded in the United States since 1917 and include very diverse categories related to journalistic activity: editorial, public service, reportage, photography, journalism investigation or cartoon editorial.

Literary works, such as biographies, works of fiction or historical research on the United States, are also awarded. There is also a category designed to recognize the merit of a musical composition made by an American.

Some awards not without controversy

While these accolades are highly regarded both in the United States and beyond, they have also received some criticism. In this sense, their liberal bias and a marked anti-conservatism have been censured.

The trajectory of these awards is closely linked to the most outstanding news in the history of American journalism (The Washington Post journalists who uncovered the Watergate case that ended President Nixon's resignation received this award in 1973).

The legacy of a Hungarian journalist of Jewish origin

Joseph J. Pulitzer (1847-1911) came to the United States at a young age and enlisted in the military to fight for the Northerners during the American Civil War. After the end of conflict war began his journalistic activity as an editor in a Newspaper from language German in the city of Sant Louis. As time passed, he bought the newspaper he worked for and began a successful career as a newspaper editor.

In his journalistic activity he had the skill to connect with the man in the street and became the forerunner of press sensationalism in the United States. At the end of the 19th century he bought a prestigious newspaper (the New York Journal) and from its pages the Spanish-American war in order for Spain to lose control over the colonies of Cuba and Puerto Rich.

Joseph J. Pulitzer died in 1911 and in his will he left the pertinent indications for each year to be awarded different prizes related to journalistic activity

The awards that bear his name are presented every April.

In the history of these awards, great writers such as Ernest Heminway or Tennessee Williams stand out. In the photography category the Pulitzer prizes are especially valued (the photo of the execution of Saigon from 1968 during the Vietnam War is considered one of the most impressive images of the century XX).

Photos: Fotolia - Popova Olga / John