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.
These incursions were called the Fenian raids.
Between 1943 and 1947, over 120 million specially-printed paperbacks were distributed to members of the armed forces.
By Kasey Noss
These courageous 19th-century journalists changed the field—and the country—forever.
By Kasey Noss
Explore classic nonfiction reads at no cost.
Literary censorship has long been a source of contention.
Read up on the men, women, and children who braved hazardous frontiers for a chance at new life.
Trace the ripple effects of history across time.
The pioneer and frontiersman helped settle Kentucky.
Construction workers stumbled upon an unexpected piece of history.
The psychedelic revolution, civil rights activism, hippie culture, and more.
Were they actually the first Europeans to set foot on the continent?
By Orrin Grey
Freeman’s Challenge explores an explosive true story of violence, racism, and greed.
He had a passion for the American West.
It was a daring mission, shrouded in secrecy, imperative for the Union's success.
Delving into the sacrifices of early 20th-century pilots.
Immerse yourself in the culture–and history–of a place.
The legendary baseball player passed away on June 18, 2024.
How an unremarkable bar became a historic LGBTQ+ landmark.