We Value Your Privacy

This site uses cookies to improve user experience. By continuing to browse, you accept the use of cookies and other technologies.

I UNDERSTAND
LEARN MORE

Cultural History Articles

Our world’s cultural diversity is awe-inspiring. In this corner of the Internet, we’re embracing and exploring the history behind all the unique customs that we see today.

Have you ever considered the origins and meaning behind the celebration of Halloween? How about Labor Day, or Juneteenth? Where exactly did the charming legend of Santa Claus come from, and how did it come to be tied to a Christian holiday? Even for those who observe these holidays, their fascinating historical origins can be obscure, but we’re breaking it all down for you.

Beyond the celebration of holidays, there’s a whole world of cultural history to explore. Dig into culinary history books that share the meaning behind various regional dishes and eating etiquette. Discover the history behind endangered languages that only have a few speakers left. Or learn about the fraught history of the corset, and what the garment meant to the women who wore it.

Curious about cultures beyond your own? We’ve rounded up the best books that open your eyes to other people’s way of life. Including Christian and Jewish history, the Middle East, Native American perspectives, Black history, and more, the best way you can appreciate other cultures is to educate yourself about them.

1f5ec6bb3d7e-thearchive-tag-feature.png

8 Amazing Historical Artifacts on Display Around the World

You can see these remarkable objects from the past with your own eyes.

8 Comprehensive Books About the Great Migration 

Learn more about one of the largest population shifts in American history. 

7 Famous Historical Paintings and the Meaning Behind Them

They capture historical moments both real and reimagined.

The Greatest History (and Beyond) Books for Dads of All Types

Dad's always gifted three copies of the latest history bestseller? Try these recommendations to find him something new.

7 Fascinating Books about Postwar America

Nearly every aspect of American life changed after WWII.

The Witch: Tracing the History of Fear and Allegations of Black Magic

A historian examines how different cultures have perceived witchcraft, from ancient times to today.

5 Best Food Travel Books

Help yourself to a fascinating new read.

Amazon Warrior Women: Separating Fact From Fiction

Does the fascinating Greek legend have any basis in reality?

7 Elvis Presley Books That Explore the Man Beyond the Cultural Icon

A look from every angle at the complicated man behind the music legend.

What We Know About Uncontacted Peoples

These tribes have spurned contact with the modern outside world.

The Carnyx: Music on the Iron Age Battlefield

This wind instrument was designed to intimidate opponents.

What Is Juneteenth and Why Is It Important?

Discover the cultural celebration behind the historic anniversary.

Why Do We Celebrate Black History Month?

Let's delve into the meaning behind this month-long observance.

Heinrich Schliemann and the Controversial Discovery of Ancient Troy

Was he a pioneer of archaeology or a con man who got lucky?