American History Articles

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.

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The Little-Known First Assassination Attempt on John F. Kennedy

Three years before his actual assassination, JFK was the target of a different secret plot to take his life.

10 National Book Award Winners You Should Pick Up Next

You can’t go wrong with these highly acclaimed reads.

Churchill and the Presidents: An Enduring Alliance

From 1900 to the postwar years, Churchill was acquainted with 11 US presidents.

22 Books About Influential Americans

From First Ladies to baseball players.

17 Escapist Nonfiction Books That Will Spirit You Away

Seeking solace? Find yourself immersed in a wholly different world with these nonfiction reads.

The Best Hulu Documentaries Streaming Right Now

Learn more about historical events of the past and present from the comfort of your couch.

10 Vital Books About Voting in America

With election season upon us, we're looking to the past and future of voting.

11 Facts You Didn’t Know About the Donner Party

The specter of cannibalism overshadows many other fascinating facts about the emigrants.

“Book Are Our Weapons”: How the Council on Books in Wartime Helped the U.S. World War II Effort

Between 1943 and 1947, over 120 million specially-printed paperbacks were distributed to members of the armed forces. 

10 Inspiring Books by and About Muckrakers

These courageous 19th-century journalists changed the field—and the country—forever. 

History of the Homesteader: 11 Pioneer Books

Read up on the men, women, and children who braved hazardous frontiers for a chance at new life.

A Hidden Chamber Was Just Discovered Under the National Mall

Construction workers stumbled upon an unexpected piece of history.