This page is dedicated to exploring the home of the stars and stripes. The United States of America may be less than three centuries old, but there’s a lot of history packed in those years.
It all began with the British colonies that were established in the early 17th century. From the still-unsolved disappearance of the Roanoke colony to the real historical figure of Pocahontas to the story of the first Thanksgiving, early America is frequently mythologized. We’re here to cut through the noise and tell you what really transpired during those early harsh years in the New World.
Everything changed with the opening shot fired at the battles of Lexington and Concord, known as the “shot heard round the world”. The first military engagements of the Revolutionary War, these conflicts led to the independence of the United States and inspired waves of rebellion elsewhere. Whether you’re interested in key battles of the American Revolution, little-known facts, books, or true stories—such as the surprising role of Black soldiers or the significance of Valley Forge—there’s no shortage of knowledge to be had about this key event in American history.
Of course, we’d be remiss not to dive into America’s other key military engagements, from the Civil War that nearly tore the young nation apart over the issue of slavery to accounts of Vietnam. Along the way, explore stories that encapsulate the American experience through various eras, such as conflict with Native Americans, westward expansion, the Great Depression, and the struggle for equality. See the past through a whole new lens with our stories about American history.
Learn about the talented and inspiring figures who shaped classical music.
By Aviva Kaplan
Elmira developed a notorious reputation.
These eerily empty towns were once bustling.
By Orrin Grey
The history of women presidential candidates dates back to the 1870s.
They express the harrowing nature of the war better than words alone.
If there is one general that could be considered as having single-handedly lost the Civil War for the Confederates, it’s John Bell Hood.
Trapped in Japan during World War II, this American citizen faced an uphill battle to return home.
By Orrin Grey
They archived Black history and broke barriers along the way.
These satirical drawings reveal the debates that dominated bygone eras.
By Orrin Grey & Aviva Kaplan
You'll love these books—no matter who you’re rooting for!
By Aviva Kaplan
His impassioned allegations of communism made him the face of the Red Scare.
By Orrin Grey
Some children's poems have ominous undertones.
By Orrin Grey
The CIA explored the possibility of mind control on individuals without their consent.
By Orrin Grey
"Foods are going to our fighting men. They come first!"
Three years before his actual assassination, JFK was the target of a different secret plot to take his life.
He was also the last crew member of the USS Utah.
He was the longest-lived president in U.S. history.
You can’t go wrong with these highly acclaimed reads.
From 1900 to the postwar years, Churchill was acquainted with 11 US presidents.