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.
Get aquainted with these historians and their award-winning books.
These reads are well worth the wait.
By Sara Kapheim
This little-known figure had a short but fascinating life.
By Lee D'Amato
The Air Force base has been the subject of numerous conspiracies over the years.
By Orrin Grey
His accounts delve into moments that redefined America.
By Sara Kapheim
Was the anarchist plot real, or just a frenzy of paranoia?
Learn more about one of the largest population shifts in American history.
By Orrin Grey
This early conflict between colonists and Native Americans had unexpected consequences.
By Orrin Grey
This cavalry regiment was celebrated for its role in the Spanish-American War.
By Lee D'Amato
Learn more about this crucial step for women's rights.
The collection boasts over 17 million visual items.
The story of the father of the atomic bomb is coming to the silver screen.
By Sara Kapheim
The Corps of Discovery set out to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory.
By Lee D'Amato
There's a story behind the distinctive flair.
Mark Twain coined "the Gilded Age" to mean this period of time was “glittering on the surface, but corrupt underneath.”
Taking a closer look at this harmful wartime measure.
By Orrin Grey
Celebrate the Black men and women who made history.
This little-known confrontation turned deadly.
By Lee D'Amato
"I am perfect for what biography has become today because there is nothing I wouldn't investigate."