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 Soviet-American Space Alliance

New research reveals that the Space Race wasn't quite as embittered as we were led to believe.

6 Historical Political Cartoons That Capture the Hopes and Fears of the Past

These satirical drawings reveal the debates that dominated bygone eras.

10 Railroad History Books That Shed Light on the Industry

This innovative mode of travel allowed people to make cross-country journeys in days rather than weeks or months. 

How Hawaii Became a State

The history of Hawaii stretches back much further than its 1959 admittance to the U.S.

10 Fascinating Books About Immigration

Delve into the social phenomenon that’s enriched America.

Fourth of July Facts Through History

Separate our celebratory facts from fiction. 

8 Eye-Opening Books About the Underground Railroad

Discover in-depth accounts about the escape routes taken by enslaved African Americans.

Betsy Ross: How the Seamstress Became an Enduring Symbol of American Patriotism

She's said to have created the first American flag, but the real story is more complicated.

WWI Veterans Came Together to Demand Their Bonuses in a 1932 March on Washington

The Bonus Army, abandoned by the government amidst the Great Depression, took matters into their own hands.

Boston and Beyond: Massachusetts in the Revolutionary War

We look to the colony's origins to understand its revolutionary mindset.

[CLOSED] GIVEAWAY: Win Three Books by Bestselling Author and Historian Patrick K. O’Donnell

Including his latest book, The Indispensables—a gripping account of a heroic Revolutionary War regiment.

11 Revealing Revolutionary War Books

These riveting reads offer fresh insight into America's fight for independence.

The Capture of Fort Ticonderoga

This minor battle led to major strategic victory for the rebelling colonists in the first months of the Revolutionary War.

10 Wall Street Books About the High-Stakes World of Finance

Capitalism can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

President Harry Truman's Exemplary WWI Record

The 33rd president had an admirable military career.

On This Day: The American Flag Was Flown in Battle for the First Time

During a 1777 skirmish in Cooch’s Bridge, Delaware, General William Maxwell ordered the flag be raised.

5 Fascinating Facts You Didn’t Know About the Pony Express

This short-lived service has maintained a large presence in our historical imagination.