Albright, Belsby represented the state in finals
Two Liberty Bell High School students had an impressive showing in the individual documentary category at the National History Day finals, one placing in the top 10 and one receiving a special award.
Leki Albright and Ayla Belsby, who just completed their sophomore year, took first and second place in the state competition and went on to compete against 98 students from across the country at the national contest, which was conducted virtually this year.
Belsby was one of 10 finalists at the national level for her documentary, “The American Divergence: How Darwin’s Theory of Evolution Changed American Culture through the Education System,” which reviewed the history of public education over the past several centuries. She explored scientific discoveries, religious beliefs and child labor laws.
Albright won a special award, getting first place from the Ancient Order of Hibernians for her documentary, “Troubled Beyond Repair? The Endless Spiral of Debate and Diplomacy in the Northern Ireland Conflict.” Albright went back to the 12th century to understand the roots of the conflict.
The award is co-sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians in America. The winning entries must demonstrate excellence in the study and presentation of Irish or Irish-American history.
The orders are Irish Catholic organizations, both founded in the 19th century and both the oldest and largest Irish organization for men and for women in the United States. The orders present a first- and second-place award at National History Day each year.
