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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“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.

9 Revolutionary Books About the 1960s Counterculture Movement

The psychedelic revolution, civil rights activism, hippie culture, and more.

What We Know About Vikings in North America

Were they actually the first Europeans to set foot on the continent?

A Brutal 19th-Century Murder and its Connection to For-Profit Prisons

Freeman’s Challenge explores an explosive true story of violence, racism, and greed.

Two Civil War Soldiers Awarded Medal of Honor for Great Locomotive Chase

It was a daring mission, shrouded in secrecy, imperative for the Union's success.

Mavericks of the Sky: The Origins of the U.S. Air Mail Services

Delving into the sacrifices of early 20th-century pilots.

Willie Mays’ Positive Legacy Lives On

The legendary baseball player passed away on June 18, 2024.

What Happened at Stonewall?

How an unremarkable bar became a historic LGBTQ+ landmark.