Jay Winik

Jay Winik is one of the nation’s foremost public historians, celebrated for his compelling and innovative approach to chronicling history. He is best known for his groundbreaking and widely acclaimed #1 New York Times bestseller, "April 1865", a classic work that was adapted into an Emmy-winning History Channel documentary watched by an estimated 50 million viewers. Winik’s other New York Times bestsellers include "1944: FDR and the Year That Changed History" and "The Great Upheaval". His book "On the Brink" was a Pulitzer Prize nominee. As a pioneer in the genre of historical writing that focuses on key turning points, Winik has redefined how pivotal moments in history are understood and conveyed to modern audiences.

A distinguished voice in historical and political commentary, Winik is a longtime contributor to The Wall Street Journal and frequently writes for The New York Times and National Review. His work has earned the admiration of U.S. presidents, Supreme Court justices, congressional leaders, military figures, and cultural icons, including Presidents George W. Bush, the late George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama, as well as Chief Justice John Roberts, Justices Elena Kagan, Samuel Alito, and the late Antonin Scalia, and leaders like Mitch McConnell, Chuck Schumer, and Nancy Pelosi. His readership extends to figures such as General David Petraeus, journalist Bob Woodward, and actor Tom Hanks.

In addition to his literary achievements, Winik is a sought-after public speaker and media personality. He served as the presidential historian for Fox News during the past three presidential inaugurations, covering both Donald Trump and Barack Obama. His expertise has also shaped major historical media projects, serving as a historical advisor to the chairman of the National Geographic Networks and contributing to Nutopia’s acclaimed six-part documentary series on the 1980s.

Beyond his work in history and media, Winik is actively engaged in numerous cultural and educational institutions. He has served as a trustee or board member for the National Endowment for the Humanities (a presidential appointment), the Veterans History Project, the American Folklife Center of the Library of Congress, Ford’s Theatre, the Washington Tennis and Education Foundation, the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, American Heritage magazine, the World Affairs Journal, and the Civil War Preservation Trust. A passionate tennis enthusiast, he also authors a regular blog, "Our Court Comments", dedicated to professional tennis.

Winik holds an honors degree from Yale College, an M.Sc (Econ) from the London School of Economics, and a Ph.D. from Yale University. Through his scholarship, public engagement, and storytelling, he continues to illuminate the past in ways that resonate deeply with both scholars and the general public.