This Day in History: Four Presidents – and a VP – Received the Nobel Peace Prize

This Day

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In History

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As we reminisce on our rich history here at the White House, this post is unique -- as we are looking back at not just one but five separate years.

Since the creation of the Nobel Peace Prize, four U.S. Presidents and one Vice President have received the award, which is presented each year on December 10.

Keep reading to find out more about the history of Nobel Peace Prizes here at the White House.

What’s the Nobel Peace Prize?

Alfred Nobel was a man of many disciplines -- including science, invention, entrepreneurship, literature, and peace. When he passed away in 1896, he dedicated his will to award those who have been outstanding figures in these fields. As a result, in 1900, the Nobel Foundation was established and became the organization responsible for awarding the Nobel Prizes.

According to Alfred Nobel’s will, the Nobel Peace Prize shall be awarded to those who have “done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."

The Nobel Peace Prize is an international award that is awarded every year by the Norwegian Nobel Committee. The prize ceremony takes place annually on December 10, the date on which Alfred Nobel passed away. The prize usually includes a medal, personal diploma, and award money.

Woodrow Wilson's Nobel Peace Prize Medal. Picture provided by the Library of Congress.

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