On June 4, 1917, the first Pulitzer Prizes were awarded in the United States. The awards were created through a bequest from newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer. Initially, the categories were few and focused on journalism and letters. Over the years, the Pulitzers expanded to include drama, photography, and music. Winning a Pulitzer became one of the highest honors for American writers and journalists. The awards continue to recognize excellence and influence in American media and literature.
