The Surprising History of the Nobel Peace Prize

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Secrets of the Nobel Peace Prize: Beyond the Headlines

From teenage activists to clandestine nominations, a closer look at the world's most prestigious award reveals a fascinating history of courage, controversy, and closely guarded traditions.

The Nobel Peace Prize is more than just an award; it's a global statement.

But behind the formal ceremony in Oslo lies a trove of surprising details and rich history.

Age is truly just a number when it comes to peace.

The youngest-ever laureate, Malala Yousafzai, was only 17 when she was recognized in 2014 for her fight for children's right to education.

On the other end of the spectrum, Joseph Rotblat was 87 when he received the prize in 1995 for his tireless efforts against nuclear weapons.

What about the iconic gold medal itself?

It's crafted from 18-carat green gold and plated with 24-carat gold, weighing about 175 grams.

The honor can be bestowed more than once.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) stands alone, having won the prize an incredible three times for its vital humanitarian work in 1917, 1944, and 1963.

Curiosity about who almost won will have to wait.

The nomination process is shrouded in secrecy, with the names of candidates kept sealed for a full 50 years.

This rule ensures the committee can make its decisions free from public pressure and political influence.

And the prize has a powerful female pioneer to thank for its very existence.

The first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize was Bertha von Suttner in 1905.

A close friend of Alfred Nobel, many credit her passionate anti-war advocacy with inspiring the inventor of dynamite to establish a prize for peace in his will.

Her influence fundamentally shaped the award's legacy.

FAQ: Nobel Peace Prize

Who was the first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize?

The first female laureate was Bertha von Suttner, an Austrian pacifist and novelist, who won in 1905. She was a close friend of Alfred Nobel and a major influence on his decision to create the prize.

Can an organization win the Nobel Peace Prize?

Yes, organizations are frequently honored. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has won the award three separate times for its humanitarian efforts.

How long are Nobel Prize nominations kept secret?

The complete list of nominees for the Nobel Peace Prize is kept confidential for 50 years to protect the integrity and independence of the selection process.