Mark Twain

Keen to appear outward-looking and open to Western culture, in 1838 the Second King of Siam bestowed upon his son a most unusual name.

Imported from Europe, the custom of leaving gratuities began spreading in the U.S. post-Civil War. It was loathed as a master-serf custom.

James Gordon Bennett Jr.'s most eccentric public service announcement.

The incredible story of how a disgraced Civil War general became one of the best-selling novelists in American history.

The rise and fall of the Post Office from Tocqueville to Fred Rogers.

Ulysses S. Grant was overlooked by historians and underestimated by contemporaries. H.W. Brands reevaluates Grant’s presidency.

George Washington scales new heights.