U.S. history

Diptych of construction site for United Nations and U.N. Secretariat Building with flags in front (Both photos: © UN)

Looking back at the U.N.’s place in New York

As world leaders come to U.N. headquarters in New York for the annual General Assembly, take a look back at the site's genesis, 75 years ago.
Martin Luther King Jr. waving to crowd gathered along reflecting pool (© AFP/Getty Images)

How King’s words brought America closer to its best

Sixty years ago, Martin Luther King Jr. gave a speech that changed history. A scholar and a poet explain why his words still move Americans.
Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley (© Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service/Getty Images)

National monument will honor Emmett Till, Mamie Till-Mobley

The Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument will honor the teenager and his mother, who galvanized the Civil Rights Movement.
Composite with portrait paintings of Marquis de Lafayette (Courtesy of Museums at Washington and Lee University) and George Washington and key in glass box (Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association)

A Bastille Day symbol of friendship

On July 14, French citizens celebrate their freedom from tyrannical rule and Americans celebrate their centuries-old friendship with France.
Fireworks exploding over city skyline (© Jeff Kowasky/AFP/Getty Images)

America’s Independence Day inspires far-flung tributes

On a day when Americans celebrate their country’s birthday, people all over the world join in to enjoy its culture and honor its principles.
Waiter carrying tray of drinks, seen through oval window (© White House/Samantha Appleton/AP)

Take a behind-the-scenes look at state dinners, as the White House...

State dinners have several elements, including a VIP guest list, delicious cuisine and high fashion. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look.
Artist holding pencils posing in front of bus decorated with pots and pencils (© Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe/Getty Images)

5 groundbreaking Caribbean American artists [photo gallery]

Caribbean American artists have transformed the U.S. art world and taken the rest of the world by storm with their innovative approaches.
Profile of woman looking toward window (© LM Otero/AP)

Meet Opal Lee, ‘grandmother of Juneteenth’

Opal Lee, a 96-year-old activist from Texas, worked hard to get Juneteenth recognized as a federal holiday. Learn how she did it.
Historic photo of dust cloud approaching buildings (© AP Images)

U.S. scientists work to stave off desertification

U.S. scientists are developing new approaches to reduce desertification and in some cases return harmed land to its earlier fertile condition.