You know we celebrate our nation’s independence on the 4th of July. But, do you know how this holiday came to be? When was it first celebrated? What is its true meaning? Let me share with you this...
Category - American History
The Wright Brothers: How They Became Aviation Pioneers
Do you know the story of the Wright brothers? They are the inventors of controlled, manned flight. This is their story, and how they became aviation pioneers.
Do You Remember Your First Television?
You've probably grown up watching television. But, did you ever wonder how it was invented? Or, who invented it? It's a fascinating story. Here are the details.
Have You Heard of Calamity Jane?
You've probably heard of Calamity Jane. But how much of her real life story do you know? While much of her life is still speculation, what we do know is wild.
Morse Code and the Telegraph
Today's modern telecommunications have origins reaching back almost 200 years. Here's the story...
The Surprise Missouri Earthquake of 1811
The Missouri area experienced a devastating earthquake in 1811. Here's what effect the earthquake had on the area, and why there was even a large earthquake there in the first place.
The Creation and History of the YMCA
It is the name of a popular song by The Village People, but the YMCA is far more than that. It is a group that goes back more than one and a half centuries. It was created to provide wholesome...
The Long Winter of 1880-1881: When the West Froze
The West froze during the winter of 1880-1881. Here's the story.
The French and the Fur Trade: Before American Colonization
The French were interacting with North American Natives for a century before the English. Here's how they established friendly relations and learned each others' languages.
Modern Communication: A History of the Telephone
The telephone was invented earlier than most people may realize. By 1900, it was already present in some private households.
Oklahoma, the Natives, and US Settlement
Oklahoma was originally set aside as a reservation for Natives. Yet, Americans wanted to settle there. Here's how Oklahoma went from a reservation to a state.
Charles M. Schulz: An American Peanut
This American icon cartoonist embraced the countries of his heritage but became a controversial figure for animation in over 75 countries.
The Seminole Wars: A Brief History of the Settlement of Florida
The Seminole Wars played an important part in the American settlement of Florida.
Why Was President Johnson Really Impeached, and Why Did He Get to Keep His Office?
Andrew Johnson was the first American president to be impeached. Why was he impeached and why did he get to keep his office? It's an interesting story.
How Riverboats and Steamers Shaped American History
Before trains and automobiles, it was riverboats that connected America. You can learn more about the rich American tradition of steamships here.