Modern History Stories

So much has happened in the past decade alone, but what got us here? Humanity has evolved in so many ways in the modern era. From the Industrial Revolution to the invention of the iPhone, from the Space Race to SpaceX, from last century's influenza pandemic to Covid-19, there’s a lot to cover. These stories attempt to recount how we’ve gotten to where we are and the rapid change that took place within the last few centuries.

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A Strange and Sticky Tragedy: The Great Molasses Flood of 1919

Over a century ago, a Boston neighborhood was struck by a most unusual disaster.

10 Enlightening Books About Leadership

Lessons from the greatest minds in history.

Why Do We Celebrate Black History Month?

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

Behind the Crown: 15 First-Class Books About Royalty

Mad for the monarchy? Get a behind-the-scenes look at the great royals of the past.

11 Binge-Worthy Podcasts About Fraud

You will not believe the fraudacity of some people.

6 Moments in Sports History That Went Beyond the Game

Unforgettable instances in which sports changed the world.

10 Books About Powerful Families

Their rise, their fall, and every scandalous detail in between. 

9 Books to Read for Native American Heritage Month

These personal stories shed light on the modern Native American experience.

A Soldier’s Story: 20 War Books Told by Those Who Were There

We’re honoring America’s heroes with books that reveal what it's like to be in war.

Alaska Day and the History Behind the 49th State

When and how did this far-flung territory become part of the United States?

Explore China's Rich History with These Books

Nine books illuminate China's rich history from its ancient roots to the modern People's Republic of China.

Rediscover the World Around You With 7 Accessible Ethnographies

These eye-opening books shed light on other cultures and communities.

5 Books That Humanize the 1947 Partition of India

When British India was dissolved, the territory was divided along religious lines.

7 Essential Books About Afghanistan

As news about the Taliban continues to unfold, satisfy your curiosity about instability in the region.

The Cult of the Supreme Being: A New Religion in Revolutionary France

The French Revolution left fertile ground for a new approach to religion.

Battle of Ia Drang: The United States Army’s Brutal Entry into the Vietnam War

In the wake of Joseph L. Galloway’s death, we’re revisiting his iconic book on the conflict, We Were Soldiers Once...and Young.