A Short History of American Money, From Fur to Fiat

What do animal pelts, tobacco, fake wampum, gold, and cotton-paper bank notes have in common? At one point or another, they've all stood for the same thing: U.S. currency.Before independence, America's ...

Balm of America: A Look Inside the Smithsonian's Medicine Cabinet

A cough and cold remedy offered by the Boston apothecary, Thomas Hollis, in the 19th century, Balm of America was a cure-all for our ills.

RI students journey into aviation history

The Thurgood Marshall Learning Center has a hallway with the look of an aviation history museum. Painted on a wall above a stairwell at the school, 600 11th Ave., Rock Island, is a dramatic mural showcasing the exploits of a pioneering band of aviators who broke racial barriers while helping to clear the way for America's victory in World War II.

The Death (and Life) of Marriage in America

The story we think we know is that the institution of marriage is crumbling and on the brink of oblivion. The real story is much more complicated. National Marriage Week USA kicks off today, and for many ...

Review: 'The Mirage' is compelling alternative history of 9-11 and its aftermath

"The Mirage" (Harper), by Matt Ruff: An alternate history of the events surrounding 9-11 creates a unique and compelling read in Matt Ruff's "The Mirage."