The Back Story: A Photo Trend From The 1890s
Ever notice how some people from the distant past turned their backs to the camera?
History
Key West's Dueling Civil War Memorials Serve As Monuments To Tolerance
There's been plenty of debate about Civil War monuments since the church shootings in Charleston, S.C. In Key West, a Confederate memorial is being fixed up, while a new Union memorial is being added.
The Martians Are Coming! 'Broadcast Hysteria' Looks At The War Over 'Worlds'
Orson Welles' radio hoax famously convinced America that Martians had landed in New Jersey, right? A. Brad Schwartz's new Broadcast Hysteria argues that panic may have been blown out of proportion.
Why Did The U.S. Choose Hiroshima?
Seventy years ago, an atomic bomb wiped a city off the map. The committee that picked the target knew the destruction would be awful, but hoped it could end the war and stop future use of such bombs.
How Percy Shelley Stirred His Politics Into His Teacup
In 19th century Britain, keeping sugar out of tea became a political statement against slavery. The sugar boycott was no easy choice for the radical poet, who hated slavery but loved tea.
The Strangest Presidential Campaign Ever
In the annals of American politics, there have been some pretty quirky quests for the White House.
Cheetos, Canned Foods, Deli Meat: How The U.S. Army Shapes Our Diet
Many of the processed foods that we eat — and the way they're made — were invented not for us, but for soldiers, says the author of the new book Combat-Ready Kitchen.
Edison's 'Little Monsters' Restored To Their Original Freakishness
Visitors at the Thomas Edison National Historical Park can hear newly-restored Edison talking dolls. They are the stuff of nightmares. This story originally aired May 5 on All Things Considered.
#TBT: 40 Years After Jimmy Hoffa's Disappearance, His Legend Lives On
Forty years ago today, Hoffa pulled into a restaurant parking lot and was never heard from again. His story is one of union devotion, fraud and fierce political battles.
The Future Of American History
Three college professors respond to questions about the evolving challenges of teaching the history of a complex nation.