Desmond Morton awarded Pierre Berton Prize by Canada's History Society

McGill Professor Desmond Morton has been awarded the 2010 Pierre Berton Award by Canada's History Society, publishers of Canada's History magazine. The $5,000 award -- Canada's top history prize -- is named after the prolific author, television personality, columnist and one-time managing editor of Maclean's. The prize recognizes excellence in bringing Canadian history to a wider popular audience. 

Morton is the author of over 40 books on Canadian military, political and labour history, including A Short History of Canada and A Military History of Canada.

In a release the Society said

The Award selection committee noted that the Pierre Berton Award particularly recognizes Desmond Morton's tireless advocacy of accessible Canadian history. He once facetiously suggested that Canadian history be banned from schools as 'unfit for young minds. Then, of course, those "young minds" would grab a flashlight and read it avidly under the covers.'

The award will be presented November 19 by The Right Honourable David Johnston as part of the Governor General's Awards for Excellence in Teaching Canadian History.