Dale Robertson, a decorated soldier in World War II, went on to become a Hollywood star, starring in Westerns and the popular TV series Tales of Wells Fargo. He served in the 97th Infantry Division, participating in key battles in Europe and the Pacific, before being part of the occupation forces in Japan. Robertson's life is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of WWII veterans. [... more]

James Arness, a U.S. Marine and actor, served in World War II, earning a bronze star and a purple heart. After the war, he began his acting career, eventually landing the lead role in the long-running television series Gunsmoke, where he played Marshal Matt Dillon for 635 episodes. [... more]

Elijah Lovejoy, a Christian pastor and abolitionist, risked his life to expose the brutal truths about slavery through his newspaper, The St. Louis Observer. His courageous stand against slavery sparked an uproar in St. Louis, but he remained committed to his principles, even in the face of mob violence and death. [... more]

John Hanson, often overlooked in American history, was the first president of the United States under the Articles of Confederation, serving from 1781 to 1782. He played a crucial role in the country's early years, including the ratification of the Articles of Confederation and the creation of the first national government. Hanson's life and presidency are a fascinating chapter in American history, one that is often forgotten in favor of his more famous counterpart, George Washington. [... more]

The B-24 bombers played a crucial role in World War II, with young American pilots and crew members volunteering to fly these aircraft, which were built with limited refinements and exposed to harsh conditions. Despite the challenges, the B-24s were instrumental in paralyzing the German army and contributing to the Allied victory. [... more]

Johnny Carson's legacy continues to shape late night television, with hosts like David Letterman and Stephen Colbert navigating the line between entertainment and politics. The ratings game has changed, and the current cast of late night hosts may see a scaled-down format if the genre survives. [... more]

Amy Semple McPherson rose to prominence in the 1920s as a Pentecostal preacher, using innovative techniques to spread the gospel and build America's first megachurch in Los Angeles. Her ministry was marked by scandal and controversy, but she ultimately rebuilt her reputation and left a lasting legacy in American Christian history. [... more]

Tim McCoy, a Michigan boy from a family of Irish immigrants, leaves college to become a cowboy in the American West, where he learns the Arapaho language and becomes a tribal brother, and later serves in the US Army, including in World War I and World War II, and becomes a Hollywood star, starring in 16 MGM movies and winning an Emmy for his TV show. [... more]

The War of 1812 had a profound impact on America, leading to the development of its national identity and economy. The Monroe Doctrine, which declared the Western Hemisphere off-limits to European colonization, became a cornerstone of American foreign policy. Meanwhile, the construction of the Erie Canal and other infrastructure projects transformed the nation's commerce and transportation networks, while the issue of slavery continued to plague the country. [... more]

George Washington's life is marked by his desire to belong and be accepted by the Virginia elite. He faces economic collapse and the British refusal to recognize his status as a gentleman. Washington's experiences in the French and Indian War and his subsequent appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army shape his leadership and commitment to the American cause. He repeatedly slips the British noose, choosing strategic retreat over honorable defeat, and ultimately surrenders his commission, establishing the idea of civilian control of the military. [... more]

A South Vietnamese pilot, Major Bung Lee, commandeered an aircraft to evacuate his family from Saigon during the Vietnam War. He landed on the USS Midway, an aircraft carrier, in a daring and historic move, thanks to the decision of Captain Lawrence Chambers, the first African American to command a US aircraft carrier. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories Thomas Jefferson stood at the center of the American founding writing the Declaration of Independence and later serving as the third president of the United States He believed deeply in liberty and in the promise of the country but his life was marked by contradictions that continue to shape how he is remembered including the fact that he never freed his slaves despite his lofty ideals about freedom In this talk at the Library of Congress acclaimed historian and bestselling author of Thomas Jefferson The Art of Power Jon Meacham explores Jefferson as [... more]

Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas engaged in a series of debates in 1858 that would shape the course of American history. The debates centered on the issue of slavery and the principles of democracy, with Lincoln arguing that slavery was morally wrong and Douglas advocating for popular sovereignty. The debates made Lincoln a national figure and set him on the path to the presidency, while also defining the American experiment as the pursuit of natural rights embodied in the Declaration of Independence. [... more]

The story of Texas' journey to independence from Mexico is a complex and fascinating tale of colonization, rebellion, and ultimately, victory. From the early Spanish explorers to the brave defenders of the Alamo, the Texans fought tirelessly for their freedom, led by figures like Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston. The turning point came at the Battle of San Jacinto, where the Texans, led by Houston, defeated the Mexican army and secured their independence. This remarkable story is a testament to the spirit of the American people and the enduring legacy of the Texas Revolution. [... more]

Robert E. Lee, a complex and beloved general, made a decision that would alter the course of his life and history. He rejected command of the Union Army and resigned from the military, citing his inability to raise his sword against his native state of Virginia. However, Lee's decision was not as straightforward as it seemed, and he was motivated by a desire to preserve his family's property and protect his relatives in Virginia. Lee's military strategy was to plunge the Army of Virginia deep into the North to sow chaos and undermine the Union's will to fight. He crossed the Potomac and marched his army northwards, but his plan was foiled by the Federal Army's determination and tenacity. The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal moment in the Civil War, and Lee's defeat marked a turning point in the conflict. Despite his military setbacks, Lee remained a respected and admired leader, and his legacy continues to be debated and studied by historians today. [... more]

Dr. Joseph Warren, a young physician, played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, advocating for the rights of the colonists and leading the charge against British tyranny. His bravery and leadership inspired others, and his legacy continues to shape American history. [... more]

Born Robert Leroy Parker, Butch Cassidy brought organization to a world of unorganized crime, becoming a legendary Western outlaw. He formed the Wild Bunch, a group of outlaws who robbed trains and banks, but his life of crime eventually caught up with him. As the West became more civilized, Butch's crimes became harder to pull off, and he was eventually forced to flee to South America, where he met his end in a shootout with Bolivian soldiers. [... more]

Tom Fitzpatrick, a legendary mountain man, played a crucial role in the early history of the American West. He was a skilled trapper, guide, and scout who helped shape the course of the fur trade and the development of the region. Fitzpatrick's life was marked by adventure, danger, and tragedy, but he also played a key role in negotiating the Treaty of Fort Laramie, which had significant implications for Native American tribes. His story is a fascinating look at the complexities of the American West and the people who shaped its history. [... more]

Henry Ford's legacy is deeply ingrained in American history, from the invention of the Model T to the creation of the modern assembly line. His innovative approach to mass production and consumerism transformed the automobile industry and had a profound impact on society. Ford's courage and conviction in the face of adversity are a testament to his enduring legacy. [... more]

In 1838, two U.S. congressmen, Representative Jonathan Silly of Maine and Representative William Graves of Kentucky, engaged in a high-profile duel at the Bladensburg dueling grounds, using rifles, which was a rare and unusual choice for a duel. The duel ended with Silly being struck in the thigh and succumbing to his injuries. This event highlights the complex history of dueling in America and the tensions leading up to the Civil War. [... more]

Historian David McCullough shares the story of the American Revolution, focusing on the year 1776 and the British perspective, as told in his book 1776: The Biography of the Year of Our Birth. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln's complicated faith life is explored by historian Richard Corradine, who reveals that Lincoln was deeply unimpressed with pro-slavery theology and instead believed in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man. Lincoln's views on faith evolved over time, and he turned to the Bible for comfort during the Civil War. His second inaugural address is a remarkable plea for national unity and forgiveness, and it reflects his deep understanding of the complexities of American history and the role of religion in shaping the nation's identity. [... more]

The story of Doc Holliday, a gambler and lawman who traveled the Wild West, getting into gunfights and forming friendships with notable figures like Wyatt Earp. Doc's life was marked by his struggles with tuberculosis and his involvement in the infamous Gunfight at the OK Corral. [... more]

Brian Keith's remarkable life, from his early days as a child actor to his decorated service in the Marine Corps during World War II, is told through his incredible story of overcoming the impossible. With a career spanning over 70 movies and 300 TV episodes, Keith's life was marked by his bravery, talent, and dedication to his craft. From his early days on stage to his rise to fame in Hollywood, Keith's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. [... more]

Born Phoebe Ann Moses in rural Ohio, Annie Oakley used her shooting skills to feed her family after her father's death. She went on to challenge and defeat gunslinger Frank Butler, becoming a manager and advocate for women's right to self-defense, teaching 15,000 women over her lifetime. [... more]

The story of Christmas 1776 tells the tale of George Washington and the Continental Army's brave and noble fight for American independence. With the war looking bleak, Washington planned a bold attack to cross the Delaware River on Christmas night, leading his men to victory and changing the course of history. [... more]

Belinda Mulroney, a determined and resourceful entrepreneur, navigates the challenges of the Klondike Gold Rush, building a business empire in the Yukon and Alaska. With her quick wit and business acumen, she becomes one of the richest women in the Klondike, earning the nickname 'Queen of Grand Forks'. Her story is a testament to her strength and resilience in the face of adversity. [... more]

David Barton, founder of Wall Builders, discusses the importance of teaching America's forgotten history and the moral, Christian, and constitutional foundation on which the nation was built. He shares his experiences in Texas, where new standards are being implemented to include the Founding Fathers and biblical literature in school curricula, and encourages listeners to take an active role in restoring faith in America by promoting prayer and Bible study in schools. [... more]

Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, was honored with the creation of the world's largest cheese, a four-foot block of cheese weighing over 1,200 pounds, as a tribute to his principles of separation of church and state. The cheese was made by the people of Massachusetts and delivered to the White House, where it was served at two New Year's receptions. This unusual gift was a reflection of the democratic culture of the time, where people loved to celebrate and show their support for their leaders in creative and often humorous ways. [... more]

Robert E. Lee, the Confederacy's most powerful general, was born in 1807 at Stratford Hall on the northern neck of Virginia. He attended West Point, graduating second in his class, and spent his professional life in the Army's Corps of Engineers, specializing in fortification construction. Lee's frustration with slow promotion led him to accept a commission as Lieutenant Colonel of the 2nd Cavalry in Texas, where he chased Comanches and outlaws. In 1861, he was recalled to Washington to help write Army regulations, but ultimately refused President Lincoln's invitation to take command of federal forces and instead joined the Confederate Army, becoming a general and leading the Peninsula Campaign, Second Bull Run, and other pivotal battles. [... more]

Benjamin Franklin's essay, Morals of Chess, teaches four key virtues: foresight, circumspection, caution, and perseverance, which speak to the game of chess and the political and moral responsibilities of the players. Franklin's lessons reflect the fragile yet boundless potential of America's founding principles, and his influence became essential to the American cause during the Revolutionary era. [... more]

The story of the weapons used in World War II, including the development of intermediate range ballistic missiles and the atomic bomb, as well as the use of barbed wire, machine guns, and landmines, is explored through the epic storytelling of Stephen Ambrose. [... more]

Richard King, a larger-than-life figure, carved out a cattle empire in the Old West, dominating trade on the Rio Grande River and becoming one of the first South Texas ranchers to drive cattle to railheads. With his innovative approach to ranching and his ability to adapt to changing markets, King's legacy continues to shape the beef industry. [... more]

Two country boys from rural Massachusetts rose to the highest heights of Harvard Yard, shaping generations of students and influencing American history. James Bradley Thayer and Chauncey Wright's improbable rise to the Brahmin stratosphere is a testament to the power of friendship and perseverance. [... more]

The Benson Hotel in Portland, Oregon, has a rich history dating back to 1912, when it was commissioned by Simon Benson, a Norwegian immigrant who built his fortune in the logging industry. The hotel's elegant design and luxurious amenities were a testament to Benson's vision of creating a world-class hotel for the city. Despite initial financial struggles, Benson took over management and turned the hotel into a profitable business, eventually selling it to new owners. The hotel has since become a beloved landmark and a symbol of Portland's growth and prosperity, with its stunning architecture and philanthropic efforts leaving a lasting legacy. [... more]

James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States, is a lesser-known figure in American history. Despite his lack of charisma and personal scandals, Polk was a highly effective one-term president who added more territory to the United States than the Louisiana Purchase. He was driven by the concept of Manifest Destiny, which held that Americans were destined to spread their culture and religion across the North American continent. Polk's presidency was marked by his ambitious goals, including the annexation of Texas and the acquisition of Oregon and California. He was a workaholic who trusted no one and was involved in every aspect of government. Polk's legacy is complex and multifaceted, and his story is a fascinating one that sheds light on the early 19th century and the growth of the United States. [... more]

The story of the weapons of World War II, with a focus on the development and use of artillery, machine guns, barbed wire, and landmines, as told by historian Stephen Ambrose. [... more]

James Swanson, author of Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer, shares the story of John Wilkes Booth's assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and the subsequent manhunt. Swanson delves into Booth's motivations, his escape, and the impact of the assassination on American history. [... more]

General Daniel Sickles, a colorful character in American history, left a trail of unpaid bills, broken romances, and political scandals. He served as a soldier, politician, and diplomat, and was involved in several controversies, including the killing of Philip Barton Key and his subsequent acquittal on temporary insanity. Sickles went on to become a major general in the Civil War and was instrumental in the preservation of Gettysburg as a national historic site. [... more]

The American Revolution marked a significant turning point in Jewish history, as Jews played a crucial role in the fight for independence and the establishment of the United States. The Revolution brought about a new era of religious freedom, with the US Constitution guaranteeing liberty of conscience and immunities of citizenship. George Washington's letters to the Jewish community in Rhode Island, particularly to Moses Seixas, set a standard for the nation to live up to, emphasizing the importance of treating all citizens equally, regardless of their religious beliefs. [... more]