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.
America’s first pioneers of the stars.
Explore each unique borough, from past to present.
The brothers had quite the divergent life paths.
By Orrin Grey
Learn more about the people and decisions that made history.
By Orrin Grey
She wanted to attend law school, despite the barriers.
The Battle of Khe Sanh was one of the longest and most controversial battles of the Vietnam War.
National Treasure was onto something with the writing on the back.
From the ancient world to World War II, explore new points of view.
These iconic artists were also veterans.
Now little-known, these incidents once shocked voters.
By Orrin Grey
Do you know which one ended up in jail?
By Orrin Grey
Meet extraordinary individuals; explore communities; deepen your understanding of America.
Get a fresh take on the men who led—and currently lead—our country.
Sylviane A. Diouf shares how slaves escaped and survived in the Southern wilderness.
The scorched earth policy left chaos in its wake.
By Orrin Grey
The regiment gained a reputation for courage in the face of heavy losses.
These Patriots failed to garner support from Canada by force.
Get a new outlook on the past.
Ever wonder why presidents pardon poultry?