History
Travel to the past with the best history stories, from Ancient Rome to World War II. The Archive has the history stories you crave, from military sagas to exploring the New World.
What Really Happened in Roswell, New Mexico?
It's the birthplace of an enduring alien legend.
The Real Pocahontas Behind Disney's Myth
Pop culture depictions have romanticized this historical figure.
Alchemy Was the Marketing Scheme of the Medieval World
Wealthy people were eager to believe the discipline's bold claims.
Chaos Reigned During the 1814 Burning of Washington
The storming of the capital during the War of 1812 led to destruction.
The California Gold Rush Redefined the Old West
The hunt for riches brought 300,000 settlers to the territory.
French Knight Gilles de Rais Inspired the Folktale “Bluebeard”
A veteran of the Hundred Years' War, he earned a chilling legacy later in life.
Former Secretary of State Colin Powell Has Died at Age 84
He was the first Black man to hold the position, amid a long and impactful career as a soldier and statesman.
Alaska Day and the History Behind the 49th State
When and how did this far-flung territory become part of the United States?
Simon the Cat Won a Dickin Medal for His Royal Navy Service
This four-legged friend prowled the decks of the HMS Amethyst, where he was present for the Yangtze Incident.
The Controversial History of America's Company Towns
Are they really as utopian as their proponents claim?
Meet Whitey Bulger, the Notorious Crime Boss Who Went into Hiding
The Boston native remained at large for 16 years.
Witold Pilecki and the Secret Polish Army Led Resistance in Poland During WWII
This war hero infiltrated Auschwitz as a spy for the resistance.
Demystifying the “Indian Wars”, a Complex Series of Conflicts
The fighting spanned dozens of adversaries and hundreds of years.
The Daring Voyage of the James Caird
Discover one of the greatest polar rescue missions ever completed.
