James Madison: Father of the Constitution
Explore James Madison's pivotal role in shaping early American politics, from drafting the Constitution to founding the Democratic-Republican Party and his presidency, in this concise historical overview.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt: Four-Term Phenomenon
Explore FDR's monumental presidency, from leading the nation through the Great Depression to World War II, and discover why he's considered one of America's greatest leaders.
Woodrow Wilson: A World War and a League of Nations
Explore Woodrow Wilson's presidency during World War I, his progressive and racist views, and the emergence of the US as a global superpower. Learn about key policies, events, and the League of Nations.
Abraham Lincoln: The Emancipator
Explore Lincoln's pivotal role in the Civil War, from his election to his assassination, including key battles and political decisions that shaped America's future.
George Washington: The Birth of a Nation - 1789-1797
Explore George Washington's presidency and its impact on early America, from the Constitutional Convention to the Whiskey Rebellion and Jay Treaty, in this engaging historical overview.
Election Cake
Explore the history and preparation of Election Cake, a traditional American dessert, while learning about its cultural significance and baking techniques.
Abraham Lincoln and the Struggle for Democracy - A Lens on Present Day America
Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer Jon Meacham explores Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War, offering insights into contemporary challenges and the complexities of American democracy.
Redemption Song - Reckoning with History and Charting a Path Forward
Historians discuss reckoning with America's racial history and charting a path forward, exploring ways to address the past while fostering national unity and progress.
A Lens to American Iconography - Exploring National Symbols
Explore American symbols like the Gadsden Flag and Statue of Liberty in David Rubenstein's PBS series "Iconic America," examining their origins, evolution, and contemporary significance.
Reinvigorating the American Dream - Economic Insights from the Great Depression to Today
Pulitzer Prize-winner David Leonhardt explores America's economic history, from the Great Depression to today's challenges, seeking ways to revitalize the American Dream and address current stagnation.
Smithsonian's Future - A Conversation with Secretary David Skorton
Explore the Smithsonian's future with Secretary David Skorton as he discusses the institution's role in education, upcoming projects, and its impact on American culture with David Rubenstein.
The Legacy of Emmett Till - Exploring New Perspectives on a Pivotal Civil Rights Case
Explore the impact of Emmett Till's tragic death through two authors' perspectives, shedding light on racial injustice and the ongoing quest for equality in America.
A Thousand Small Sanities - Exploring the Origins and Evolution of Modern Liberalism
Explore the roots and evolution of modern liberalism through key thinkers and movements, from Montaigne to the Civil Rights era, offering insights for navigating today's challenges.
The Matriarch - Barbara Bush and the Making of an American Dynasty
Explore Barbara Bush's influential role in American politics through insights from her biographer, revealing her candor, wit, and impact on the Bush dynasty.
Values in Conflict - The Code of the West
Explore ethical dilemmas and moral challenges through the lens of Western American history, examining how conflicting values shape our decisions and society.
The End of the Frontier - The Beginning of Conservation
Explore the historical shift from frontier expansion to conservation efforts, examining the impact on American landscapes and environmental policies.
Kit Carson and the 19th Century American West - A Legendary Journey of Exploration
Explore Kit Carson's complex legacy and the 19th century American West, examining historical perspectives and the challenges of interpreting controversial figures.
From Territories to States: The Civil War and the End of the Frontier
Explore the Civil War's impact on Western expansion, federal power, slavery, and race relations in America, examining key historical events and their lasting consequences.
Kit Carson and the 19th Century American West - A Legendary Journey of Exploration
Explore the complex life of Kit Carson, a legendary figure of the American West, and his impact on 19th-century frontier history and cultural clashes.
Reason for Hope: A Conversation on Global Challenges and Progress
Explore global challenges and reasons for optimism with NYT columnist Nicholas Kristof, discussing the pandemic, progressive era, and societal divisions in this thought-provoking conversation.
The Three Lives of James Madison
Explore Madison's evolving roles as Constitution architect, partisan founder, and foreign policy shaper, and their enduring impact on American governance.