And the envelope please....

William D. Green has won the third Hognander Minnesota History Award for his book, "Degrees of Freedom: The Origins of Civil Rights in Minnesota 1865-1912," published by the University of Minnesota Press.

Green, a professor of history at Augsburg College, is a former member of Minneapolis School Board. His book paints a picture of life for black citizens in a primarily white state after the Civil War, introducing the reader to ordinary citizens – former slaves, barbers, and other early settlers -- as well as national figures such as Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington.

The Hognander award is presented every other year and recognizes the most outstanding scholarly work published on Minnesota history. Green will be honored on April 16 at the 28th annual Minnesota Book Awards ceremony at St. Paul's Union Depot.