American Essence

Although little-known, Curtis’s rise to power to the country’s second-highest executive office is a source of inspiration.

From learning barbecue to incorporating global flavors into her latest creations, barbecue champion Melissa Cookston is charting her own path.

In this installment of ‘Profiles in History,’ an American pilot becomes an ace in two theaters of war and earns the revered Medal of Honor.

A volunteer dog trainer shares inspiring stories of how her pups have become heroic service animals to those in need—and offered her healing in the process.

Benedict Arnold displayed remarkable grit in Quebec against a resurgent British army determined to crush America’s hopes for a 14th colony.

An orphan from Liberia found comfort in song, and, today, feels blessed to have a loving family in the American South.

Though later overshadowed by Mark Twain, Bret Harte helped establish the American West as fertile ground for literature.

In America, everyone has the freedom to pursue whatever passion he or she wants, and that is what makes this country beautiful.

Psychoanalyst Erica Komisar explains why the mother’s presence in a child’s first three years of life has a huge impact on the latter’s emotional health.

My grandmother, who was unabashedly proud of her adopted country, showed me why America was worth cherishing.

The best farms and ranches for both adventure and relaxation.

The New York City exhibition examines life in New Amsterdam through the lens of exceptional 17th-century Dutch paintings.

The singer-songwriter’s latest record explores multiple seasons of her life with themes of gratitude, hope, and faith.

In this installment of ‘The Art of Liberty,’ we meet an influential classical music composer.

In ‘This Week in History,’ a House Committee released its report, claiming theft of major tech weapons and the ascendance of a new global rival.

Inspired by Arctic observations, Clarence Birdseye revolutionized groceries with rapid-freezing technology that made frozen food a household staple.

Covering most of America’s history, here are 10 single-volume books discussing the most important eras in US history.