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]