History http://www.history.com Topics from History.com History http://www.history.com/images/global/logo_HC.gif http://www.history.com Abraham Lincoln's Assassination http://www.history.com/topics/abraham-lincoln-assassination On April 14, 1865, John Wilkes Booth, a famous actor and Confederate sympathizer, fatally shot President Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. America's Wars http://www.history.com/topics/americas-wars Military conflicts throughout U.S. history have shaped the country's policies, influenced its culture, defined its borders and cost thousands of lives. Explore a timeline of America's wars. Abolitionist Movement http://www.history.com/topics/abolitionist-movement From the 1830s until 1870, the abolitionist movement attempted to achieve immediate emancipation of all slaves and the ending of racial segregation and discrimination. Abigail Adams http://www.history.com/topics/abigail-adams Writer and First Lady, Abigail Adams's talent as a correspondent has won her a high place in American letters. America in the British Empire http://www.history.com/topics/america-in-the-british-empire Among the European Atlantic states, England was notably slower than Spain, Portugal, or France to become interested in the New World. Amistad Case http://www.history.com/topics/amistad-case In 1839, fifty-three illegally purchased African slaves being transported from Cuba on the ship Amistad managed to seize control of the vessel. Articles of Confederation http://www.history.com/topics/articles-of-confederation (1781-1788), the first written constitution of the United States, superseded by the Constitution in 1788. American Response to the Holocaust http://www.history.com/topics/american-response-to-the-holocaust The systematic persecution of German Jewry began with Adolf Hitler's rise to power in 1933. American Revolution http://www.history.com/topics/american-revolution Dig deeper into the history of the American Revolution, the war between Britain and the American colonies. Get the facts on how the U.S. won its independence. Arms Race http://www.history.com/topics/arms-race Over the past century, the arms race metaphor has assumed a prominent place in public discussion of military affairs. Atilla http://www.history.com/topics/atilla Attila became king of the Huns sometime after a.d. 435 and ruled until his death in a.d. 453. The Huns were fierce warriors who struck terror into the hearts of the inhabitants of the Roman Empire. Aztecs http://www.history.com/topics/aztecs At the height of their power in the 15th and early 16th centuries, the Aztecs ruled over a large empire in Mesoamerica (now south-central Mexico). Adolf Hitler http://www.history.com/topics/adolf-hitler A Nazi leader, Adolf Hitler placed his stamp on Germany, World War II and the entire 20th century. American Civil War http://www.history.com/topics/american-civil-war Get the facts about the American Civil War, the bloodiest conflict in American history. Explore key battles, important generals and more on History.com Alien and Sedition Acts http://www.history.com/topics/alien-and-sedition-acts (1798), four internal security laws passed by the U.S. Congress, restricting aliens and curtailing the excesses of an unrestrained press, in anticipation of an expected war with France. Alabama claims http://www.history.com/topics/alabama-claims After the American Civil War, the United States filed suit against Great Britain for damages inflicted by the English-built, Confederate cruiser "Alabama." Alabama http://www.history.com/topics/alabama Explore Alabama, nicknamed the "Heart of Dixie." Find out how the 22nd state seceded from the union, became the epicenter of civil rights and more. Alaska http://www.history.com/topics/alaska Discover the history behind Alaska, the 49th state admitted to the Union. Find out where the name Alaska is derived from and more on History.com. Alcatraz Prison http://www.history.com/topics/alcatraz The U.S. penitentiary on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay housed some of America's most dangerous criminals from 1934 to 1963. Alexander the Great http://www.history.com/topics/alexander-the-great Alexander the Great was a Macedonian king who overthrew the Persian Empire, carried Macedonian arms to India, and laid the foundations for the Hellenistic world of territorial kingdoms. Alexander II http://www.history.com/topics/alexander-ii (born April 29 [April 17, Old Style], 1818, Moscow, Russia—died March 13 [March 1, Old Style], 1881, St. Petersburg) emperor of Russia (1855–81). Andersonville http://www.history.com/topics/andersonville From February 1864 until March 1865 during the American Civil War, Andersonville, Georgia, served as the site of a notorious Confederate military prison. Appomattox Court House http://www.history.com/topics/appomattox-court-house On April 9, 1865, Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the American Civil War. Aristotle http://www.history.com/topics/aristotle Get the facts on Aristotle, the an ancient Greek philosopher and scientist. Arizona http://www.history.com/topics/arizona The last of the 48 coterminous states to join the union, Arizona has seen dramatic population growth in the early 21st century. Arkansas http://www.history.com/topics/arkansas Arkansas has changed since the 1970s, with economic and urban development bringing population growth and increased diversity. Atlanta Campaign http://www.history.com/topics/atlanta-campaign In the summer of 1864, Union Gen. William T. Sherman faced off against Confederate generals Joseph E. Johnston and John B. Hood in a series of battles in northern Georgia. Atlantic Charter http://www.history.com/topics/atlantic-charter During World War II (1939-45), the United States and Great Britain issued a joint declaration in August 1941 that set out a vision for the postwar world. Abigail Fillmore http://www.history.com/topics/abigail-fillmore Abigail Fillmore was an American first lady, the wife of Millard Fillmore, 13th president of the United States. Alexander Graham Bell http://www.history.com/topics/alexander-graham-bell A Scottish-born American audiologist, Alexander Graham Bell is best known as the inventor of the telephone. Discover more about the history of Alexander Graham Bell and the race for the first telephone patent. Anna Harrison http://www.history.com/topics/anna-harrison Anna Harrison was the wife of William Henry Harrison and grandmother of Benjamin Harrison. Alger Hiss http://www.history.com/topics/alger-hiss On January 21, 1950, in the conclusion to one of the most spectacular trials in U.S. history, former State Department official Alger Hiss was convicted of perjury. Anthony Kennedy http://www.history.com/topics/anthony-kennedy (born July 23, 1936, Sacramento, California, U.S.) associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1988. Ambrose Burnside http://www.history.com/topics/ambrose-everett-burnside Explore the life of Ambrose Burnside, a Union general during the Civil War. Andrew Carnegie http://www.history.com/topics/andrew-carnegie Scottish-born Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) was an American industrialist who amassed a fortune in the steel industry then became a major philanthropist. Angela Davis http://www.history.com/topics/angela-davis (born Jan. 26, 1944, Birmingham, Ala., U.S.) militant American black activist who gained an international reputation during her imprisonment and trial on conspiracy charges in 1970–72. Abner Doubleday http://www.history.com/topics/abner-doubleday Get the facts on Abner Doubleday, a U.S. military officer who served as a Union general during the Civil War. Alfred Dreyfus http://www.history.com/topics/alfred-dreyfus In December 1894, French officer Alfred Dreyfus was convicted of treason by a military court-martial and sentenced to life in prison for his alleged crime of passing military secrets to the Germans. Amelia Earhart http://www.history.com/topics/amelia-earhart One of the world's most celebrated aviators, Amelia Earhart was the first woman to fly alone over the Atlantic Ocean. Albert Einstein http://www.history.com/topics/albert-einstein Albert Einstein, considered the most influential physicist of the 20th century, became world famous for his special and general theories of relativity and won the Nobel Prize for his work on the photoelectric effect. Anne Frank http://www.history.com/topics/anne-frank Anne Frank (1929-45) was a Jewish girl who hid in a secret attic apartment in Amsterdam with her family in order to escape persecution by the Nazis during World War II. After Frank died in a concentration camp, the diary she kept of her two years in hiding was published and became an international Althea Gibson http://www.history.com/topics/althea-gibson (born August 25, 1927, Silver, South Carolina, U.S.—died September 28, 2003, East Orange, New Jersey) American tennis player who dominated women's competition in the late 1950s. Al Gore http://www.history.com/topics/al-gore (born March 31, 1948, Washington, D.C., U.S.) 45th vice president of the United States (1993–2001) in the Democratic administration of President Bill Clinton. Alex Haley http://www.history.com/topics/alex-haley (born August 11, 1921, Ithaca, New York, U.S.—died February 10, 1992, Seattle, Washington) American writer whose works of historical fiction and reportage depicted the struggles of African Americans. Alexander Hamilton http://www.history.com/topics/alexander-hamilton Though he never attained the highest office of his adopted country, few of America's founders influenced its political system more than Alexander Hamilton. A. P. Hill http://www.history.com/topics/a-p-hill Get the facts on A.P. Hill, a U.S. Army officer who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. Anne Hutchinson http://www.history.com/topics/anne-hutchinson (baptized July 20, 1591, Alford, Lincolnshire, England—died August or September 1643, Pelham Bay, New York [U.S.]) religious liberal who became one of the founders of Rhode Island after her banishment from Massachusetts Bay Colony. Albert Sidney Johnston http://www.history.com/topics/albert-sidney-johnston Get the facts on Albert Sidney Johnston, a U.S. and Texas military officer who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. Alice Paul http://www.history.com/topics/alice-paul (born Jan. 11, 1885, Moorestown, N.J., U.S.—died July 9, 1977, Moorestown) American woman suffrage leader who introduced the first equal rights amendment campaign in the United States. Augusto Pinochet http://www.history.com/topics/augusto-pinochet (born Nov. 25, 1915, Valparaiso, Chile—died Dec. 10, 2006, Santiago) leader of the military junta that overthrew the socialist government of President Salvador Allende of Chile on Sept. A. Philip Randolph http://www.history.com/topics/a-philip-randolph (born April 15, 1889, Crescent City, Fla., U.S.—died May 16, 1979, New York, N.Y.) trade unionist and civil-rights leader who was a dedicated and persistent leader in the struggle for justice and parity for the black American community. Al Sharpton http://www.history.com/topics/al-sharpton (born October 3, 1954, Brooklyn, New York, U.S.) American civil rights activist and minister. He began preaching at age four and became an ordained Pentecostal minister at age 10. Alexander H. Stephens http://www.history.com/topics/alexander-h-stephens Get the facts on Alexander Hamilton Stephens, a politician who served as vice president of the Confederate States of America during the Civil War. Alexis de Tocqueville http://www.history.com/topics/alexis-de-tocqueville Find out more about the French sociologist and political theorist Alexis de Tocqueville, who is remembered for his observations of the United States. Amerigo Vespucci http://www.history.com/topics/amerigo-vespucci Amerigo Vespucci was a merchant and explorer-navigator who took part in early voyages to the New World and is America's namesake. Auschwitz http://www.history.com/topics/auschwitz Auschwitz, the largest of all the Nazi death camps, opened in 1940. Throughout World War II (1939-45), untold numbers of Jewish prisoners and other perceived Nazi enemies perished in Auschwitz's gas chambers. Al Capone http://www.history.com/topics/al-capone The most notorious gangster in American history, Al Capone ran Chicago's largest bootlegging, prostitution and gambling syndicate. Ancient Egypt http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-egypt The ancient Egyptian civilization endured for more than 5,000 years, and at its peak was one of the richest and most powerful in the world. Ancient Rome http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-rome Over its tumultuous 1,200-year history, Ancient Rome grew from a small town into one of the most successful imperial powers in history. Andrew Jackson http://www.history.com/topics/andrew-jackson The strong leadership of Andrew Jackson, a military and controversial figure who served as the seventh U.S. president from 1829 to 1837, helped shape the modern Democratic Party. Andrew Johnson http://www.history.com/topics/andrew-johnson Andrew Johnson (1808-75), the 17th U.S. president, assumed office after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln (1809-65). Johnson, who served from 1865 to 1869, was the first American president to be impeached. Abraham Lincoln http://www.history.com/topics/abraham-lincoln The 16th president of the United States (1861-65), Abraham Lincoln led the Union to victory in the Civil War and emancipated the South's African-American slaves. Battle of Amiens http://www.history.com/topics/amiens-battle-of Following the failure of the 1918 German spring offensives and the successful French counterstroke on the Marne in July, the Allies turned to their own offensive on August 8 in the Amiens sector. Aguascalientes http://www.history.com/topics/aguascalientes Named after the numerous hot springs in the area, Aguascalientes, one of the smallest Mexican states. Ancient Greek Democracy http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-greece-democracy Although it lasted only two centuries, Athenian democracy would become one of ancient Greece's most enduring contributions to the modern world. Apollo 11 http://www.history.com/topics/apollo-11 On July 20, 1969, the American astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first people to land on the moon. Michael Collins http://www.history.com/topics/astronaut-michael-collins Astronaut who was on Apollo 11, but did not walk on the moon. Apollo 13 http://www.history.com/topics/apollo-13 The Apollo 13 mission of 1970 almost ended in disaster when an explosion disabled the spacecraft. The Alamo http://www.history.com/topics/alamo Explore the history of the Alamo, a former Franciscan mission that was the site of a historic battle between Mexican troops and Texan defenders in 1836. Ancient Greece http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-greece Between 800 and 500 B.C., Greek city-states spread from the Mediterranean to Asia Minor and from North Africa to the Black Sea. American Women in World War II http://www.history.com/topics/american-women-in-world-war-ii American women helped the World War II effort, both in uniform and by joining the industrial workforce. American-Indian Wars http://www.history.com/topics/american-indian-wars Conflicts between Native Americans and American forces reached a critical juncture in the 18th and 19th centuries. Anti-Saloon League http://www.history.com/topics/anti-saloon-league The Anti-saloon league was the leading organization lobbying for prohibition in the United States in the early 20th century. African-American Soldiers in the Civil War http://www.history.com/topics/african-american-soldiers-in-the-civil-war Of the 2 million soldiers who fought for the Union during the Civil War, about 180,000 were African-American. Forty thousand black soldiers died in the war. Automated Teller Machines http://www.history.com/topics/automated-teller-machines During the 1960s, several inventors worked independently to devise a machine that could do at least some of the things that bank tellers did. The result of their work was the automated teller machine, or ATM. Automobiles http://www.history.com/topics/automobiles During the 1960s, several inventors worked independently to devise a machine that could do at least some of the things that bank tellers did. The result of their work was the automated teller machine, or ATM. Apartheid http://www.history.com/topics/apartheid Find out more about apartheid, the policy of racial segregation and discrimination that existed in South Africa from the 1940s to the 1990s. Atlantis http://www.history.com/topics/atlantis Atlantis is a legendary island in the Atlantic Ocean, lying west of the Straits of Gibraltar. The principal sources for the legend are two of Plato's dialogues, Timaeus and Critias. Ancient Greek Art http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-greek-art Many historians believe that ancient Greek art reached its apex between about 500 B.C. and about 300 B.C., an era known as Greece’s “classical period.” Army-McCarthy Hearings http://www.history.com/topics/army-mccarthy-hearings The Army-McCarthy hearings dominated national television from April to June 1954. African-American Leaders During Reconstruction http://www.history.com/topics/african-american-leaders-during-reconstruction During Reconstruction, many African Americans exercised their new rights and played an active role in the political, economic and social life of the South. Armenian Genocide http://www.history.com/topics/armenian-genocide Between 1915 and 1922, the majority of the Armenian population was forcibly expelled from the Ottoman Empire under orders from Turkish government leaders, and some 1.5 million Armenians were massacred. Today, most historians call this event the “Armenian genocide.” I Am Alive: The Crash of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 http://www.history.com/topics/alive On October 13, 1972, a plane carrying a Uruguayan rugby team crashed in the Andes, provoking a harrowing ordeal at 12,000 feet. Desperate survivors stayed alive by eating human flesh. Their 72-day ordeal and incredible rescue is portrayed in the HISTORY special "I Am Alive: Surviving the Andes Plane Ancient History http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-history From the Greeks and Romans to the Aztecs and the Mayas, today's civilizations owe an immense debt to the powerful empires and mighty cities of antiquity. Achilles http://www.history.com/topics/achilles Explore the life of the Greek warrior Achilles, the main character of Homer's The Iliad. American History http://www.history.com/topics/american-history Explore United States history and find out about the most important events in America. Find information from founding fathers to recent events on History.com Agent Orange http://www.history.com/topics/agent-orange During the Vietnam War, U.S. forces used powerful herbicides like Agent Orange to deprive enemy troops of foliage cover. Black History Milestones http://www.history.com/topics/black-history-milestones Explore black history milestones and events that shaped African-American history, including the Civil War, abolition of slavery and civil rights movement. Bosnian Genocide http://www.history.com/topics/bosnian-genocide In the early 1990s, conflict in the former Yugoslav republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina was marked by atrocities committed by Bosnian Serb forces, including the massacre of nearly 100,00 ethnic Bosniaks and Croats. Black History Facts http://www.history.com/topics/black-history-facts Black History Month honors the contributions of African Americans to United States history. Get the story of the creation of the NAACP, famous firsts in African American history and other black history facts. Bill of Rights http://www.history.com/topics/bill-of-rights The roots of the Bill of Rights--the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution--lie deep in Anglo-American history. Bleeding Kansas http://www.history.com/topics/bleeding-kansas Bleeding Kansas was the period of violence during the settling of the Kansas territory. Booker T. Washington http://www.history.com/topics/booker-t-washington Washington was the foremost black educator, power broker, and institution builder of his time. Blitzkrieg http://www.history.com/topics/blitzkrieg Conventional wisdom traces blitzkrieg, "lightning war," to the development in Germany between 1918 and 1939 of a body of doctrine using mobility to prevent repetition of the attritional deadlock of World War I. Battle of Crete http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-crete In April 1941, Germany began a lightning campaign that conquered Yugoslavia and mainland Greece, but a great threat remained: Crete. Battle of Dien Bien Phu http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-dien-bien-phu The battle that settled the fate of French Indochina was initiated when Viet Minh forces moved to attack Lai Chau, the capital of the T'ai Federation. Battle of El Alamein http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-el-alamein The Battle of El Alamein marked the culmination of the North African campaign in World War II. Battle of Guadalcanal http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-guadalcanal Before June 8, 1942, few people outside of the South Pacific had ever heard of this speck of jungle in the Solomon Islands. Battle of Iwo Jima http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-iwo-jima The picture of Americans raising the flag over Mount Suribachi is one of the U.S. Marine Corps's most enduring images. Battle of Kursk http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-kursk On July 5, 1943 the Germans struck on both sides of the Kursk salient to begin the biggest battle of World War II. Battle of Leyte Gulf http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-leyte-gulf The aerial and naval battle conducted as Allied forces invaded the Philippines began with Leyte Island on October 20. Battle of Marathon http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-marathon The first encounter on the Greek mainland between East and West took place on the small seaside plain of Marathon, twenty-six miles northeast of Athens. Battle of Midway http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-midway Six months after Pearl Harbor, the United States defeated Japan in one of the most decisive naval battles of World War II. Battles of Monte Cassino http://www.history.com/topics/battles-of-monte-cassino Allied strategy in Italy during World War II centered on keeping the Wehrmacht fully committed so that its veteran divisions could not be shifted to help repel the cross-Channel invasion. Bernard Law Montgomery http://www.history.com/topics/bernard-law-montgomery Montgomery was indisputably Britain's greatest soldier since Wellington. Benito Mussolini http://www.history.com/topics/benito-mussolini Benito Mussolini's self-confessed thirst for military glory battled his acute intelligence, psychological acumen, and political shrewdness for control over his military policies. Battle of Okinawa http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-okinawa Last and biggest of the Pacific island battles of World War II, the Okinawa campaign involved 287,000 U.S. Army troops against 130,000 Japanese soldiers. Bay of Pigs Invasion http://www.history.com/topics/bay-of-pigs-invasion Get the facts on the Bay of Pigs attack, when a group of Cuban exiles, aided by the CIA, invaded their homeland at the Bay of Pigs in April 1961. Battle of Anzio http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-anzio By the end of 1943 the Italian campaign had become a stalemate as Field Marshall Albert Kesselring's German army group stopped the Allied advance cold at Cassino. Battle of Arnhem http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-arnhem In September 1944, after the victorious end of the Normandy campaign, Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery devised a daring operation to open the way to the Ruhr by seizing a bridgehead north of the Rhine, at Arnhem. Battle of Coral Sea http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-coral-sea The first air-sea battle in history, this battle resulted from Japanese efforts to make an amphibious landing at Port Moresby in southeast New Guinea. Battle of Agincourt http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-agincourt On October 25, 1415, during the Hundred Years' War, Henry V, the young king of England, led his forces to victory at the Battle of Agincourt in northern France. Bangladesh cyclone of 1991 http://www.history.com/topics/bangladesh-cyclone-of-1991 On April 29, 1991, a devastating cyclone hit Bangladesh, killing more than 135,000 people. Barbara Bush http://www.history.com/topics/barbara-bush The wife of George Bush, Barbara Bush was one of the most popular first ladies, noted for her charitable and humanitarian efforts. Battles of Cold Harbor http://www.history.com/topics/battles-of-cold-harbor The Battles of Cold Harbor consisted of two engagement of the American Civil War, 10 miles northeast of Richmond, the Confederate capital. Battle of Fort Donelson http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-fort-donelson Ulysses S. Grant's victory at Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River in February 1862 propelled him from relative obscurity in the American Civil War. Battle of Fort Henry http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-fort-henry The Battle of Fort Henry on February 6, 1862, was the first significant Union victory of the American Civil War (1861-65). Bataan Death March http://www.history.com/topics/bataan-death-march The day after the surrender of the main Philippine island of Luzon to the Japanese, 75,000 Filipino and American troops captured on the Bataan Peninsula began a forced march to a prison camp near Cabanatuan. Bear Flag Revolt http://www.history.com/topics/bear-flag-revolt On June 14, 1846, anticipating the outbreak of war with Mexico, American settlers in California rebelled against the Mexican government and proclaimed the short-lived California Republic. Beer Hall Putsch http://www.history.com/topics/beer-hall-putsch The Beer Hall Putsch, staged by Adolf Hitler and his followers on November 8-9, 1923, was a failed attempt at a takeover of the government in Munich, Germany. The "putsch," or coup d'état did, however, gain national attention for Hitler and the Nazi Party. Benazir Bhutto http://www.history.com/topics/benazir-bhutto (born June 21, 1953, Karachi, Pak.—died Dec. 27, 2007, Rawalpindi) Pakistani politician who became the first woman leader of a Muslim nation in modern history. Battle of Bosworth Field http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-bosworth-field On August 22, 1485, King Richard III was defeated and killed by Henry Tudor, the earl of Richmond, in the the Battle of Bosworth Field. Boxer Rebellion http://www.history.com/topics/boxer-rebellion In 1900, in what became known as the Boxer Rebellion (or the Boxer Uprising), a Chinese secret organization called the Society of the Righteous and Harmonious Fists led an uprising in northern China against the spread of Western and Japanese influence there. Braxton Bragg http://www.history.com/topics/braxton-bragg Get the facts on Braxton Bragg, a U.S. Army officer who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War Battle of Britain http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-britain In July 1940 Germany launched a series of intense air raids directed against Great Britain during World War II. Battle of Bunker Hill http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-bunker-hill On June 17, 1775, early in the Revolutionary War (1775-83), the British defeated the Americans at the Battle of Bunker Hill in Massachusetts. Battle of Camden http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-camden On August 16, 1780, American General Horatio Gates suffered a humiliating defeat at Camden, South Carolina. Battle of Chattanooga http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-chattanooga The Battle of Chattanooga (November 1863) was a decisive Union victory, which contributed to the North's ultimate success in the American Civil War. Battle of Chickamauga http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-chickamauga Find out what happened during the Battle of Chickamauga, one of the deadliest battles of the American Civil War. Bill Clinton http://www.history.com/topics/bill-clinton Clinton, the 42nd president of the US, oversaw an economic expansion, but a scandal almost took down his administration. Battle of Corinth http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-corinth Find out what happened at the Battle of Corinth during the American Civil War, a decisive victory of Union forces over Confederate forces in northeastern Mississippi. Bess Truman http://www.history.com/topics/bess-truman Bess Truman was an American first lady and wife of Harry S. Truman. Battle of Cowpens http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-cowpens On January 17, 1781, General Daniel Morgan and a mixed Patriot force routed British Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton and a group of Redcoats and Loyalists at the Battle of Cowpens. Battle of Crécy http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-crecy On August 26, 1346, during the Hundred Years’ War, the army of England’s King Edward III annihilated a French force under King Philip VI at the Battle of Crecy in Normandy. Bartolomeu Dias http://www.history.com/topics/bartolomeu-dias In 1488, Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias (c. 1450-1500) became the first European mariner to round the southern tip of Africa, opening the way for a sea route from Europe to Asia. Bombing of Dresden http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-dresden From February 13 to February 15, 1945, during the final months of World War II (1939-45), Allied forces bombed the historic city of Dresden, located in eastern Germany. Battle of Fallen Timbers http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-fallen-timbers The Battle of Timbers, on August 20, 1794, was the last major conflict of the Northwest Territory Indian War between Native Americans and the United States. Benjamin Franklin http://www.history.com/topics/benjamin-franklin One of the leading figures of early American history, Benjamin Franklin (1706-90) was a statesman, publisher, author, scientist, inventor and diplomat. He signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Battle of Fredericksburg http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-fredericksburg Find out what happened at the Battle of Fredericksburg during the American Civil War. Betty Friedan http://www.history.com/topics/betty-friedan (born Feb. 4, 1921, Peoria, Ill., U.S.—died Feb. 4, 2006, Washington, D.C.) American feminist best known for her book The Feminine Mystique (1963), which explored the causes of the frustrations of modern women in traditional roles. Battle of Gallipoli http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-gallipoli Find out more about the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I, when the Allies attempted to seize control of the Dardanelles and western Turkey. Battle of Germantown http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-germantown At the Battle of Germantown on October 4, 1777, during the American Revolution, British forces in Pennsylvania defeated the Continental Army under George Washington. The battle demonstrated the American army was not yet the well-trained force it would later become Battle of Guilford Courthouse http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-guilford-courthouse On April 25, 1781, British General Lord Charles Cornwallis retreated to Wilmington, North Carolina, after being defeated at Guilford Courthouse by 4,500 Continental Army soldiers and militia under the command of American Major General Nathanael Greene. Battle of Hastings http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-hastings On October 14, 1066, at the Battle of Hastings in England, King Harold II (c.1022-66) of England was defeated by the Norman forces of William the Conqueror (c.1028-87). Barbara C. Jordan http://www.history.com/topics/barbara-c-jordan Get the facts on Texas congresswoman Barbara Jordan, who rose to the national stage as a leading presence in Democratic Party politics for two decades. Billie Jean King http://www.history.com/topics/billie-jean-king (born Nov. 22, 1943, Long Beach, California, U.S.) American tennis player whose influence and playing style elevated the status of women's professional tennis beginning in the late 1960s. Battle of Leipzig http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-leipzig (Oct. 16–19, 1813), decisive defeat for Napoleon, resulting in the destruction of what was left of French power in Germany and Poland. The battle was fought at Leipzig, in Saxony, between approximately 185,000 French and other troops under Napoleon, and approximately 320,000 allied troops, Battles of Lexington and Concord http://www.history.com/topics/battles-of-lexington-and-concord Get the facts on the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the first military engagements of the American Revolution. Battle of the Little Bighorn http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-the-little-bighorn In 1876, George Armstrong Custer and more than 200 members of the U.S. 7th Cavalry were killed during "Custer's Last Stand." Battle of Long Island http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-long-island On August 27, 1776 the British Army successfully moved against the American Continental Army led by George Washington. Battle of Manila Bay http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-manila-bay On May 1, 1898, at Manila Bay in the Philippines, the U.S. Asiatic Squadron destroyed the Spanish Pacific fleet in the first battle of the Spanish-American War. Battle of Mobile Bay http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-mobile-bay The fall of Mobile Bay was a huge blow to the Confederacy, and the victory was the first in a series of Yankee successes that helped secure the re-election of Abraham Lincoln later that year. Battle of Hampton Roads http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-hampton-roads The Battle of Hampton Roads between the Monitor and Merrimack during the American Civil War changed naval warfare forever. Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-moores-creek-bridge In the early-morning hours of February 27, 1776, Commander Richard Caswell led 1,000 Patriot troops in the successful Battle of Moores Creek over 1,600 British Loyalists. Battle of Nashville http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-nashville On December 15, 1864, the once powerful Confederate Army of Tennessee was nearly destroyed when a Union army commanded by General George Thomas swarmed over the Rebel trenches around Nashville. Battle of New Orleans http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-new-orleans The Battle of New Orleans was the last major battle of the War of 1812. Barack Obama http://www.history.com/topics/barack-obama The 44th president of the United States, Obama is the first African American to hold the office. Battle of Palo Alto http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-palo-alto On May 8, 1846, before the United States formally declared war on Mexico, General Zachary Taylor defeated a superior Mexican force in the Battle of Palo Alto north of the Rio Grande River. Battle of Quebec (1759) http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-quebec-1759 On September 13, 1759, during the Seven Years War, a worldwide conflict known as the French and Indian War in America, the British under General James Wolfe achieved a dramatic victory. Battle of Quebec (1775) http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-quebec-1775 On December 31, 1775, Patriot forces under Colonel Benedict Arnold and General Richard Montgomery attempted to capture the city of Quebec under cover of darkness and snowfall. Betsy Ross http://www.history.com/topics/betsy-ross Betsy Ross was a seamstress who, according to legend, fashioned the first flag of the United States. Battle of San Jacinto http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-san-jacinto On April 21, 1836, during the Texan War for Independence, the Texas militia under Sam Houston launched a surprise attack against the forces of Mexican General Santa Anna along the San Jacinto River. Battle of Shiloh http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-shiloh Fought in April 1862, the Battle of Shiloh was the second great engagement of the American Civil War. Bugsy Siegel http://www.history.com/topics/bugsy-siegel (born Feb. 28, 1906, Brooklyn, N.Y., U.S.—died June 20, 1947, Beverly Hills, Calif.) New York and California gangster who was the U.S. Battle of Stalingrad http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-stalingrad The Battle of Stalingrad (July 1942-Feb 1943) was the Soviet Union's successful defense of the city of Stalingrad (now Volgograd) during World War II. The failed German attack was one of the bloodiest battles in history, with combined casualties estimated at nearly 2 million. Battle of Stones River http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-stones-river In late December 1862, Union and Confederate forces clashed at the Battle of Stones River, near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, during the American Civil War (1861-65). Battle of Trafalgar http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-trafalgar (Oct. 21, 1805), naval engagement of the Napoleonic Wars, which established British naval supremacy for more than 100 years; it was fought west of Cape Trafalgar, Spain, between Cádiz and the Strait of Gibraltar. Battles of Trenton and Princeton http://www.history.com/topics/battles-of-trenton-and-princeton General George Washington’s victories at Trenton and Princeton helped turn the tide of the American Revolution. Battle of Waterloo http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-waterloo Get the facts on the Battle of Waterloo of 1815, which resulted in a British-Prussian victory and marked the final defeat of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Battle of the Wilderness http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-the-wilderness Find out more about the chaotic Battle of the Wilderness during the American Civil War. Battle of Wilson's Creek http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-wilsons-creek The Battle of Wilson's Creek was the first major western battle of the American Civil War, and is sometime referred to as the "Bull Run of the West." Boris Yeltsin http://www.history.com/topics/boris-yeltsin Get the facts on Boris Yeltsin, who served as the president of Russia from 1991 until 1999. Brigham Young http://www.history.com/topics/brigham-young An American religious leader, Young was the second president of the Mormon church and led the Mormon migration to Utah. Bank of the United States http://www.history.com/topics/bank-of-the-united-states central bank chartered in 1791 by the U.S. Congress at the urging of Alexander Hamilton and over the objections of Thomas Jefferson. The extended debate over its constitutionality contributed significantly to the evolution of pro- and antibank factions into the first American political parties&mdash Bank War http://www.history.com/topics/bank-war in U.S. history, the struggle between President Andrew Jackson and Nicholas Biddle, president of the Bank of the United States, over the continued existence of the only national banking institution in the nation during the second quarter of the 19th century. Bella Abzug http://www.history.com/topics/bella-abzug (born July 24, 1920, New York, N.Y., U.S.—died March 31, 1998, New York City) U.S. congresswoman (1971–77) and lawyer who founded several liberal political organizations for women and was a prominent opponent of the Vietnam War and a supporter of equal rights for women. Berlin Wall http://www.history.com/topics/berlin-wall Explore the history of the Berlin Wall, which separated East and West Berlin from 1961 to 1989 and was one of the most important symbols of the Cold War. Benedict Arnold http://www.history.com/topics/benedict-arnold A hero of the Revolutionary War who later betrayed the United States, Arnold's name became synonymous with the word traitor. Boston Massacre http://www.history.com/topics/boston-massacre The Boston Massacre occurred on March 5, 1770, when British soldiers opened fire on colonists heckling a British sentry. Boston Tea Party http://www.history.com/topics/boston-tea-party In 1773, a group of Massachusetts patriots, protesting the monopoly on tea importation, seized 342 chests of tea and threw them into Boston harbor. Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka http://www.history.com/topics/brown-v-board-of-education-of-topeka This unanimous decision handed down by the Supreme Court on May 17, 1954, ended federal tolerance of racial segregation. Benjamin Harrison http://www.history.com/topics/benjamin-harrison Get the full story of Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president of the United States. Battle of Antietam http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-antietam Fought along Antietam Creek, at Sharpsburg, Maryland, this battle brought about America's bloodiest day. Battle of the Bulge http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-the-bulge In December 1944, in an all-out gamble to compel the Allies to sue for peace, Adolf Hitler ordered the only major German counteroffensive of the war in northwest Europe. Battle of Cambrai http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-cambrai Cambrai was famous for two things: it saw the first great tank attack in history and, of equal importance, the first preregistration of artillery for an offensive. Battle of Caporetto http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-caporetto By September 1917, after eleven battles along the Isonzo, both the Italian and the Austro-Hungarian armies were exhausted. Battle of Chancellorsville http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-chancellorsville The Battle of Chancellorsville was Confederate General Robert E. Lee's greatest defensive victory during the American Civil War, an outstanding example of command partnership and the misuse of strategic initiative. Battle of Gettysburg http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-gettysburg Find out what happened when Union and Confederate forces clashed in the bloody Battle of Gettysburg. Battle of Jutland http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-jutland Jutland was the only major naval surface engagement of World War I. Battle of Saratoga http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-saratoga Fought eighteen days apart in the fall of 1777, the two Battles of Saratoga were a turning point in the American Revolution. Battle of the Somme http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-the-somme The Somme campaign in 1916 was the first great offensive of World War I for the British, and came at a deadly cost. Battle of Tannenberg http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-tannenberg In one of the largest cavalry battles of the age, the combined forces of the Poles and Lithuanians defeated the Order of the Teutonic Knights in 1410. Battle of Verdun http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-verdun Only the World War I Western Front could have produced the rationale for the Battle of Verdun. Battles of Yorktown and Virginia Capes http://www.history.com/topics/battles-of-yorktown-and-virginia-capes The 1781 American victory at Yorktown proved to be the final major battle of the American Revolution. Baja California Sur http://www.history.com/topics/baja-california-sur Baja California Sur occupies the southern end of the peninsula. Baja California http://www.history.com/topics/baja-california Baja California is well known as a tourist destination, thanks to its countless beaches and proximity to the United States, and an estimated 180,000 cars crossed the international border daily. Battle of the Aleutian Islands http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-the-aleutian-islands From June 1942 to August 1943, the campaign for the Aleutian Islands, located west of Alaska, ultimately drove Japan from the only U.S. soil it occupied in North America during World War II (1939-45). Battle of Attu http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-attu In the Battle of Attu, the main battle of the Aleutian Islands Campaign during World War II (1939-45), American and Imperial Japanese armies fought from May 11 to May 30, 1943, for control of the small, remote island of Attu in Alaska's Aleutian chain. Battle of Saipan http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-saipan In the Battle of Saipan (June 15-July 9, 1944), during the Pacific Campaign of World War II (1939-45), American troops seized the Japanese island of Saipan, giving the U.S. a crucial base from which to launch its new long-range B-29 bombers directly at Japan's home islands. Battle of Tarawa http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-tarawa During World War II (1939-45), the United States began its Central Pacific Campaign against Japan by invading Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Islands on November 20, 1943. After a 76-hour battle, the U.S. successfully secured Tarawa; however, America suffered unexpectedly high troop casualties in the Battle of Kwajalein http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-kwajalein In early 1944, the successful amphibious assault by U.S. Marine and Army troops against Japanese forces on Kwajalein, in the Marshall Islands, was a crucial step in the Allied drive across the Pacific and towards the Japanese home islands in World War II. Battle of New Britain (Rabaul) http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-new-britain-rabaul From mid-1943 to early 1944, Allied forces in World War II carried out a series of amphibious assaults in the southwest Pacific aimed at encircling and isolating the major Japanese base located at Rabaul, on the island of New Britain. Battle of Peleliu http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-peleliu In the fall of 1944, the amphibious attack by U.S. troops on the island of Peleliu resulted in some of the heaviest casualties of the entire Pacific campaign during World War II. The Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki http://www.history.com/topics/bombing-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki Explore the history behind the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Get the facts on the Manhattan Project, the development of the atomic bomb and more. Black History Month http://www.history.com/topics/black-history-month Explore the history of Black History Month, a celebration of achievements by African Americans and important milestones throughout U.S. history. Birmingham Church Bombing http://www.history.com/topics/birmingham-church-bombing On September 15, 1963, a bomb exploded at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, killing four African-American girls and sparking widespread outrage over the violent resistance by many white southerners to the civil rights movement. Black Women in Art and Literature http://www.history.com/topics/black-women-in-art-and-literature From the era of slavery through the Harlem Renaissance and the achievements of the civil rights and women's movements, many talented African-American women have expressed themselves and chronicled their unique experiences using art and literature. Black Women in Sports http://www.history.com/topics/black-women-in-sports Over the past century, generations of strong, talented black female athletes have made their mark on the history of American sports. Buzz Aldrin http://www.history.com/topics/buzz-aldrin Buzz Aldrin was an Apollo 11 astronaut and the second man on the moon. Brooklyn Bridge http://www.history.com/topics/brooklyn-bridge The Brooklyn Bridge looms majestically over New York City's East River, linking the two boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The Battle of Bemis Heights http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-bemis-heights On October 7, 1777, an American counterattack at Bemis Heights drove British soldiers into retreat, forcing their surrender 10 days later at nearby Saratoga. Betty Ford http://www.history.com/topics/betty-ford Find out about the life and legacy of Betty Ford, a first lady and activist. Black Elk http://www.history.com/topics/black-elk Black Elk, a Native American warrior and holy man, witnessed the 1876 Battle of Little Bighorn and the 1890 massacre at Wounded Knee. Bank Run http://www.history.com/topics/bank-run In the early 1930s, a wave of bank runs–which occur when a large number of depositors lose confidence in bank security and request their deposits in cash at the same time–helped drive the United States deeper into the Great Depression. Bermuda Triangle http://www.history.com/topics/bermuda-triangle The Bermuda Triangle is a section of the North Atlantic Ocean off North America in which more than 50 ships and 20 airplanes are said to have mysteriously disappeared. Baby Boomers http://www.history.com/topics/baby-boomers From 1946 to 1964, more than 76 million babies were born in the U.S., part of the generation known as the "baby boomers." Black Codes http://www.history.com/topics/black-codes In the years immediately following the Civil War, former Confederate states passed a series of laws known as "black codes," designed to restrict the behavior of former slaves and ensure their availability as a labor force. Berlin Blockade http://www.history.com/topics/berlin-blockade The first major Cold War crisis, the 1948 Berlin Blockade was an attempt by the Soviet Union to limit the ability of the western powers to travel to their sectors of Berlin. Byzantine Empire http://www.history.com/topics/byzantine-empire The eastern half of the Roman Empire, centered in Constantinople, survived as the Byzantine Empire for nearly 1,000 years after the fall of Rome. Black Death http://www.history.com/topics/black-death In October 1347, a mysterious disease known as the "Black Death" began to spread across Europe. By the time the epidemic ended a few years later, it had killed more than 30 percent of Europe's population. British History http://www.history.com/topics/british-history Discover British history from prehistoric times to the British Empire to the present day. Explore a timeline of events, important dates, notable people and more. World War II Hero from "Band of Brothers" Dies http://www.history.com/topics/band-of-brothers-hero-dies Dick Winters, whose bravery and heroism during World War II were chronicled in the book and television series "Band of Brothers," has died at 92. First Battle of Bull Run (Manassas) http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-first-bull-run Find out what happened at First Battle of Bull Run, the first major land battle of the American Civil War. Second Battle of Bull Run (Manassas) http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-second-bull-run Find out what happened at the Second Battle of Bull Run (Manassas). Battle of Spotsylvania Court House http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-spotsylvania-court-house Find out more about the bloody Battle of Spotsylvania Court House during the American Civil War. Berlin Airlift http://www.history.com/topics/berlin-airlift Find out more about the Berlin Airlift, the delivery of 2.3 million tons of food and other goods to Soviet-blockaded West Berlin. Battle of Khe Sanh http://www.history.com/topics/battle-of-khe-sanh Find out what happened at the Battle of Khe Sanh during the Vietnam War. Bet You Didn't Know http://www.history.com/topics/bet-you-didnt-know Think you know your history? Chances are there's still a lot to discover. The original video series Bet You Didn't Know showcases hidden trivia about a variety of topics ranging from landmarks to holidays to pirates. Watch now to explore fascinating facts we bet you didn't know. Chinese New Year Traditions and Symbols http://www.history.com/topics/chinese-new-year-traditions-and-symbols Discover Chinese New Year traditions and symbols. Find out more about Chinese customs such as the Festival of Lanterns on History.com. Christmas Truce of 1914 http://www.history.com/topics/christmas-truce-of-1914 On the first Christmas of WWI, the sounds of rifles firing and shells exploding faded along the Western Front in favor of holiday celebrations. Discover what happened in the trenches on the Christmas of 1914. Christmas http://www.history.com/topics/christmas Discover the history of Christmas, a Christian holiday that celebrates Jesus' birth on December 25. Find out about its origins, popular traditions and more. Christmas Traditions Worldwide http://www.history.com/topics/christmas-traditions-worldwide One of the most celebrated holidays in the world, Christmas is a product of hundreds of years of traditions from around the globe. From Sweden to Australia, see how Christmas is celebrating in other countries. Columbus Controversy http://www.history.com/topics/columbus-controversy As the classroom rhyme goes, Christopher Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492 and discovered America. But there is more to the story of the explorer we celebrate with a federal holiday on the second Monday of every October. Cinco de Mayo http://www.history.com/topics/cinco-de-mayo Get the history of Cinco de Mayo, a holiday commemorating Mexico's victory at the Battle of Puebla. Find out about Cinco de Mayo traditions, facts and more. Cesar Chavez http://www.history.com/topics/cesar-chavez As a child of immigrant field workers, Chavez encountered the conditions that he would dedicate his life to changing: wretched migrant camps, corrupt labor contractors, meager wages for backbreaking work, bitter racism. Child Labor http://www.history.com/topics/child-labor The minimal role of child labor in the United States today is one of the more remarkable changes in the social and economic life of the nation over the last two centuries. Chinese Exclusion Act http://www.history.com/topics/chinese-exclusion-act The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was the first significant law restricting immigration into the United States. Civil Rights Movement http://www.history.com/topics/civil-rights-movement In the 1950s and 1960s, civil rights activists in the United States used nonviolent protest, civil disobedience and legal action to end segregation and pursue equality for all Americans. Colonial American Culture http://www.history.com/topics/colonial-culture Notwithstanding continuing differences and the persistence of colonial loyalties, a high culture that transcended local peculiarities began to develop in the early eighteenth century. Colonial American Economy http://www.history.com/topics/colonial-economy The American colonial economy was export-driven, although by far the largest share of output was consumed internally. Colonial American Government and Politics http://www.history.com/topics/colonial-government-and-politics During the last two decades of the sixteenth century, the English Crown granted various proprietors and chartered companies authority to establish colonies in America. Committees of Correspondence http://www.history.com/topics/committees-of-correspondence Committees of Correspondence were the American colonies' first institution for maintaining communication with one another. The U.S. Constitution http://www.history.com/topics/constitution The U.S. Constitution established America's national government and fundamental laws, and guaranteed certain basic rights to its citizens. It was signed at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. Crazy Horse http://www.history.com/topics/crazy-horse Crazy Horse was a legendary warrior and leader of the Lakota Sioux, celebrated for his efforts to preserve Native American traditions and way of life. Cold War http://www.history.com/topics/cold-war Explore the history of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, a rivalry that lasted for much of the second half of the 20th century. Charles Cornwallis http://www.history.com/topics/charles-cornwallis Cornwallis led several successful British campaigns during the American Revolution before his defeat at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. The Chicago Race Riot of 1919 http://www.history.com/topics/chicago-race-riot-of-1919 The rioting between gangs of blacks and whites in Chicago from July 27 to August 3, 1919, was the most severe in a series of similar racial conflicts that took place across the country during that so-called "Red Summer." Colosseum http://www.history.com/topics/colosseum Explore the long and colorful history of Rome’s magnificent Colosseum, built in the first century A.D. Crittenden Compromise http://www.history.com/topics/crittenden-compromise In December 1860, Kentucky Senator John J. Crittenden introduced legislation aimed at resolving the looming secession crisis in the Deep South. Cultural Revolution http://www.history.com/topics/cultural-revolution The Cultural Revolution began in 1966, when Communist leader Mao Zedong acted to reassert his authority, both within his party and over China's government. Clara Barton http://www.history.com/topics/clara-barton Explore the life of Clara Barton, American nurse, suffragist and humanitarian who is best remembered for organizing the American Red Cross. Caroline Harrison http://www.history.com/topics/caroline-harrison Caroline Harrison was an American first lady and wife of Benjamin Harrison. California http://www.history.com/topics/california The most populous state in the U.S., California joined the union in 1850. Carrie Chapman Catt http://www.history.com/topics/carrie-chapman-catt (born Jan. 9, 1859, Ripon, Wis., U.S.—died March 9, 1947, New Rochelle, N.Y.) American feminist leader who led the women's rights movement for more than 25 years, culminating in the adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment (for woman suffrage) to the U. Charlemagne http://www.history.com/topics/charlemagne Discover the world of Charlemagne, a medieval emperor who once ruled much of Western Europe. Chiang Kai-shek http://www.history.com/topics/chiang-kai-shek Chiang Kai-shek (1887-1975) led the Chinese Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) for nearly 50 years and served as China's head of state from 1928-49. Cleopatra http://www.history.com/topics/cleopatra The legendary Cleopatra VII ruled ancient Egypt as co-regent for almost three decades, and is remembered for her military alliances and romances with two Roman leaders. Cochise http://www.history.com/topics/cochise Chief Cochise was one of the great leaders of the Apache Indians in their battles with the Anglo-Americans. Colorado http://www.history.com/topics/colorado Explore the history of Colorado, which became a U.S. state in 1876 and is located in the Rocky Mountains. Find out about Colorado's geography and more. Columbine High School shootings http://www.history.com/topics/columbine-high-school-shootings On April 20, 1999, two teens went on a shooting spree at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, killing 13 people and wounding more than 20. Christopher Columbus http://www.history.com/topics/christopher-columbus Find out more about the legendary explorer Christopher Columbus, who sailed to the Americas while searching for a water route from Europe to Asia. Confederate States of America http://www.history.com/topics/confederate-states-of-america Explore the history of the Confederate States of America, comprised of 11 southern states that seceded from the Union, leading to the American Civil War. Connecticut http://www.history.com/topics/connecticut One of the original 13 U.S. states, Connecticut is located in New England. Crimean War http://www.history.com/topics/crimean-war (October 1853–February 1856), war fought mainly on the Crimean Peninsula between the Russians and the British, French, and Ottoman Turkish, with support, from January 1855, by the army of Sardinia-Piedmont. Che Guevara http://www.history.com/topics/che-guevara An enduring icon of leftist radicalism and anti-imperialism, Guevara was a prominent communist figure in the Cuban Revolution and a guerrilla leader in South America. Charles Evans Hughes http://www.history.com/topics/charles-evans-hughes (born April 11, 1862, Glens Falls, N.Y., U.S.—died Aug. 27, 1948, Osterville, Mass.) jurist and statesman who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (1910–16), U. Coretta Scott King http://www.history.com/topics/coretta-scott-king (born April 27, 1927, Marion, Alabama, U.S.—died January 31, 2006, Rosarito, Mexico) American civil rights activist, who was the wife of Martin Luther King, Jr. Charles A. Lindbergh http://www.history.com/topics/charles-a-lindbergh (born February 4, 1902, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.—died August 26, 1974, Maui, Hawaii) American aviator, one of the best-known figures in aeronautical history, remembered for the first nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic, from New York to Paris, on May 20–21, 1927. Colin Powell http://www.history.com/topics/colin-powell (born April 5, 1937, New York, New York, U.S.) U.S. general and statesman. He was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (1989–93) and secretary of state (2001–05), the first African American to hold either position. Charles Sumner http://www.history.com/topics/charles-sumner (born Jan. 6, 1811, Boston—died March 11, 1874, Washington, D.C.) U.S. statesman of the American Civil War period dedicated to human equality and to the abolition of slavery. Caligula http://www.history.com/topics/caligula Get the facts on the Roman emperor Caligula, who achieved infamous feats of waste and carnage during his four-year reign. Civil Rights Act http://www.history.com/topics/civil-rights-act The 1964 Civil Rights Act was a comprehensive piece of legislation intended to end discrimination based on race, colour, religion, or national origin. Columbus Day http://www.history.com/topics/columbus-day Explore the history of Columbus Day, which celebrates Christopher Columbus' arrival in the New World. Find out about its origins, traditions and more. Cuban Missile Crisis http://www.history.com/topics/cuban-missile-crisis The Cuban missile crisis between the United States and the Soviet Union brought the world to the brink of nuclear war in October 1962. Condoleezza Rice http://www.history.com/topics/condoleezza-rice Find out more about professor and diplomat Condoleezza Rice, who served as U.S. secretary of state from 2005 to 2009, during President George W. Bush's second term. Chester A. Arthur http://www.history.com/topics/chester-a-arthur America's 21st president, Chester Arthur (1829-1886), assumed office following the death of President James Garfield (1831-1881). As president from 1881 to 1885, Arthur championed civil service reform. Compromise of 1850 http://www.history.com/topics/compromise-of-1850 Divisions over slavery in territory gained in the Mexican War were resolved in the Compromise of 1850. Congress of Racial Equality http://www.history.com/topics/congress-of-racial-equality Explore the history of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), which played a pivotal role in the early years of the American Civil Rights Movement. Calvin Coolidge http://www.history.com/topics/calvin-coolidge The 30th U.S. president, Calvin Coolidge led the nation through most of the Roaring Twenties, a decade of dynamic social change, materialism and excess. Campeche http://www.history.com/topics/campeche Many tourists are drawn to the breathtaking archaeological sites scattered throughout Campeche as well as the capital city’s beautiful historical center. Chiapas http://www.history.com/topics/chiapas Forested Chiapas is the site of some of the region’s most spectacular Mayan ruins—at Bonampak, where intricate murals are preserved, and at Palenque, which is located in a national park. Chiapas also ranks second among the Mexican states in the production of cacao. Chihuahua http://www.history.com/topics/chihuahua Chihuahua is the largest state in Mexico. It is where one of the smallest canine breeds, the Chihuahua, originated. Francisco "Pancho" Villa's famous Northern Division was first assembled in Chihuahua. Coahuila http://www.history.com/topics/coahuila Coahuila is responsible for more than a third of Mexico's steel production. The state of Texas was part of the Mexican state Coahuila y Tejas before declaring independence in 1835. Coahuila was home to Francisco Madero, one of the most important leaders of the Mexican Revolution. Colima http://www.history.com/topics/colima Colima, along with Jalisco, is home to Tecoman, the world’s lime capital, and the Sierra de Manantlan Biosphere Reserve. Integration of Central High School http://www.history.com/topics/central-high-school-integration Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, was integrated in 1957 by nine African-American students. Classical Greece http://www.history.com/topics/classical-greece Lasting between 500 and 323 B.C., Greece's classical period was an era of unprecedented political and cultural achievement. Chinese New Year http://www.history.com/topics/chinese-new-year Check out the history behind the Chinese New Year. This holiday is the most important social and economic holiday in China. Find out why on History.com. Cotton Gin and Eli Whitney http://www.history.com/topics/cotton-gin-and-eli-whitney In 1794, American inventor Eli Whitney patented the cotton gin, a machine that revolutionized the production of cotton. Challenger Disaster http://www.history.com/topics/challenger-disaster Find out about the tragic story of the Challenger, a shuttle orbiter that exploded after liftoff into space in 1986, killing all seven astronauts aboard. Columbia disaster http://www.history.com/topics/columbia-disaster On February 1, 2003, the space shuttle Columbia broke apart while re-entering the atmosphere over Texas, killing all seven crew members on board. Chicago http://www.history.com/topics/chicago Explore the history of Chicago, Illinois, the largest city of the American Midwest. Cotton http://www.history.com/topics/cotton Cotton was a major cash crop and driver of economic growth during the 19th century. The Capture of Fort Ticonderoga http://www.history.com/topics/capture-of-fort-ticonderoga On May 10, 1775, Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys captured British-held Fort Ticonderoga, the first American victory of the Revolutionary War. The Culper Spy Ring http://www.history.com/topics/culper-spy-ring Based on Long Island during the Revolutionary War, the Culper Spy Ring gathered information on British activities and passed it on to George Washington. Conestoga Wagon http://www.history.com/topics/conestoga-wagon Conestoga wagons, first built in Pennsylvania in the mid- to late-18th century, served as the primary vehicles for hauling freight in the years before tractor trailers and railroads. Cornelius Vanderbilt http://www.history.com/topics/cornelius-vanderbilt Shipping and railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) was one of the wealthiest Americans of the 19th century. Chicago Seven http://www.history.com/topics/chicago-seven The Chicago Seven were political radicals accused of conspiring to incite riots that occurred during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Civil War Technology http://www.history.com/topics/civil-war-technology The Civil War is often referred to as the first "modern" war. Many of the technologies devised during that period permanently changed the way wars were fought. Cowboys http://www.history.com/topics/cowboys The reality of the cattle driving cowboy has evolved into a folk hero, half-real, half-mythological symbol of the American West. Crédit Mobilier http://www.history.com/topics/credit-mobilier The reality of the cattle driving cowboy has evolved into a folk hero, half-real, half-mythological symbol of the American West. Civilian Conservation Corps http://www.history.com/topics/civilian-conservation-corps Formed in March 1933, the CCC, was a New Deal program intended to promote environmental conservation. Crusades http://www.history.com/topics/crusades Explore the history of the Crusades, a series of holy wars fought between 1095 and 1291. Carpetbaggers & Scalawags http://www.history.com/topics/carpetbaggers-and-scalawags During Reconstruction, newly enfranchised African American voters formed a Republican coalition with two small but influential groups. Civil Rights Movement History http://www.history.com/topics/civil-rights-movement-history Get the facts on the civil rights movement in the United States, including key events and important figures. Spying in the Civil War http://www.history.com/topics/civil-war-spies Find out how both the Union and the Confederacy used spies to find out crucial information during the Civil War. Civil War Culture http://www.history.com/topics/civil-war-culture Check out the surprising changes to American culture that came about during the Civil War era. Compromise of 1877 http://www.history.com/topics/compromise-of-1877 Get the facts on the Compromise of 1877, which effectively ended Reconstruction. Caroline Kennedy http://www.history.com/topics/caroline-kennedy Find out about the childhood, career and family of Caroline Kennedy, the eldest child of the late President John Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy. Coroner's Report http://www.history.com/topics/coroners-report Medical examiner Shiya Ribowsky explores some of history's most famous and mysterious deaths. Cu Chi Tunnels http://www.history.com/topics/cu-chi-tunnels Get the full story of the Cu Chi tunnels dug by North Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. Civil War Guerilla Leaders http://www.history.com/topics/civil-war-guerilla-leaders During the American Civil War, groups of so-called “partisan rangers” engaged in bloody campaigns of guerilla attacks, raiding and psychological warfare against rival military units and civilians. Civil War: 150th Anniversary http://www.history.com/civil-war-anniversary During the American Civil War, groups of so-called “partisan rangers” engaged in bloody campaigns of guerilla attacks, raiding and psychological warfare against rival military units and civilians. Call for Photos http://www.history.com/call-for-photos HISTORY is proud to join the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s (VVMF) Call for Photos, a nationwide campaign to collect a photograph for each of the 58,272 men and women whose names are inscribed on The Wall. Coca-Cola 600 and Counting Cars Sweepstakes http://www.history.com/coke Enter the Coca-Cola & American Restoration Sweepstakes for your chance to win a Race Weekend VIP Package to the HISTORY300 and Coca-Cola600 and a Vintage Coca-Cola vending machine restored by American Restoration. D-Day http://www.history.com/topics/d-day Explore the history of D-Day, the momentous invasion of Normandy, France, by the Allies during World War II, which was the largest amphibious assault in history. Dachau http://www.history.com/topics/dachau Dachau, the first Nazi concentration camp, opened in 1933, shortly after Adolf Hitler became chancellor of Germany. Dachau initially housed political prisoners before evolving into a death camp for thousands of Jews and other perceived enemies of the Nazi state. Daniel Boone http://www.history.com/topics/daniel-boone Pioneer Daniel Boone became famous for his 18th-century exploration of Kentucky and exploits as a frontiersman. Daniel Sickes http://www.history.com/topics/daniel-sickes Daniel Sickles was a New York politician and Union general during the American Civil War, best known for his controversial actions at the Battle of Gettysburg. Daniel Sickles http://www.history.com/topics/daniel-sickles Daniel Sickles was a New York politician and Union general during the American Civil War, best known for his controversial actions at the Battle of Gettysburg. Daniel Webster http://www.history.com/topics/daniel-webster (born January 18, 1782, Salisbury, New Hampshire, U.S.—died October 24, 1852, Marshfield, Massachusetts) American orator and politician who practiced prominently as a lawyer before the U. Dardanelles Campaign http://www.history.com/topics/dardanelles-campaign In March of 1915, during World War I, British and French forces launched an ill-fated naval attack on Turkish forces in the Dardanelles, hoping to take control of the strategically vital strait separating Europe from Asia. The Darfur Conflict http://www.history.com/topics/darfur-conflict Since 2004, the United Nations estimates that some 300,000 people have been killed and 2.7 million displaced by brutal conflict in the western Sudanese region of Darfur. David Farragut http://www.history.com/topics/david-farragut David Farragut was an accomplished U.S. naval officer, best remembered for his capture of Mobile Bay, Alabama during the American Civil War. David Lloyd George http://www.history.com/topics/david-lloyd-george (born Jan. 17, 1863, Manchester—died March 26, 1945, Ty-newydd, near Llanystumdwy, Caernarvonshire, Wales) British prime minister (1916–22) who dominated the British political scene in the latter part of World War I. Davy Crockett http://www.history.com/topics/davy-crockett Davy Crockett was a legendary frontiersman who fought and died at the Alamo. Dead Sea Scrolls http://www.history.com/topics/dead-sea-scrolls First found in 1947 on the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea, the Dead Sea Scrolls have cast new light on both Judaism and early Christianity. Dean Acheson http://www.history.com/topics/dean-acheson (born April 11, 1893, Middletown, Connecticut, U.S.—died October 12, 1971, Sandy Spring, Maryland) U.S. secretary of state (1949–53) and adviser to four presidents, who became the principal creator of U. Declaration of Independence http://www.history.com/topics/declaration-of-independence The Declaration of Independence, formally adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, announced the intention of the 13 American colonies to separate from Great Britain. Deconstructing History http://www.history.com/topics/deconstructing-history Deconstructing History gives you all the facts and figures on history's most famous places, statues and structures, from Mount Rushmore and the White House to the Parthenon and the lost city of Pompeii. Delaware http://www.history.com/topics/delaware The first of the original 13 states to ratify the Constitution, Delaware is the second smallest state in the country and one of the most densely populated. Demilitarized Zone http://www.history.com/topics/demilitarized-zone The DMZ is an area on the Korean peninsula that demarcates North Korea from South Korea. It roughly follows latitude 38° N (the 38th parallel. Desmond Tutu http://www.history.com/topics/desmond-tutu (born Oct. 7, 1931, Klerksdorp, S.Af.) South African Anglican cleric who in 1984 received the Nobel Prize for Peace for his role in the opposition to apartheid in South Africa. Historic Destination Guides http://www.history.com/topics/destination-guides A guide to some historic destinations across America Détente http://www.history.com/topics/detente Détente (a French word meaning release from tension) is the name given to a period of improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union that began tentatively in 1971 and took decisive form when President Richard M. Dinosaurs http://www.history.com/topics/dinosaurs-an-introduction The prehistoric reptiles known as dinosaurs arose during the Middle to Late Triassic Period of the Mesozoic Era, some 230 million years ago. Mexico City (Distrito Federal) http://www.history.com/topics/distrito-federal The most populous metropolitan area in the Western Hemisphere, Mexico City (or Distrito Federal) is Mexico's economic, cultural and political hub. Dolley Madison http://www.history.com/topics/dolley-madison As an American first lady, Dolley Madison was the first to manage the White House, now a regular task. Domino Theory http://www.history.com/topics/domino-theory Find out more about the Cold War-era “domino theory,” which dictated that any loss of territory to communism would trigger a chain reaction of communist takeovers. Don Carlos Buell http://www.history.com/topics/don-carlos-buell Get the facts on Don Carlos Buell, a U.S. military officer who served as a Union major general during the Civil War. Donner Party http://www.history.com/topics/donner-party In the winter of 1846-1847, nearly 90 pioneers headed for California were trapped in the snowbound Sierra Nevada, where many of them resorted to cannibalism to survive. Dorothea Lynde Dix http://www.history.com/topics/dorothea-lynde-dix Find out about Dorothea Dix, a 19th-century American author, teacher and reformer who advocated on behalf of the mentally ill and prisoners. Douglas Haig http://www.history.com/topics/douglas-haig British Field Marshal and Commander in Chief of the British Expeditionary Force Douglas MacArthur http://www.history.com/topics/douglas-macarthur Get the facts on Douglas MacArthur, an American general who commanded the Southwest Pacific in World War II and led United Nations forces in the Korean War. New York Draft Riots http://www.history.com/topics/draft-riots In July 1863, attempts to enforce a Civil War draft measure resulted in the worst civil disturbance in New York City's history. Dred Scott Case http://www.history.com/topics/dred-scott-case In 1857, in one of the most controversial events preceding the American Civil War, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its decision in the case of Dred Scott v. Sanford. Durango http://www.history.com/topics/durango Famous as Pancho Villa’s home state, as well as for its scenic waterfalls, hot springs and nature preservers, Durango is also a leading supplier of timber and wood products. Dust Bowl http://www.history.com/topics/dust-bowl The Dust Bowl was the name given to the Great Plains region devastated by drought in 1930s depression-ridden America. Dwight D. Eisenhower http://www.history.com/topics/dwight-d-eisenhower Find out more about Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Allied Commander during WWII and the 34th U.S. president. Earl Warren http://www.history.com/topics/earl-warren (born March 19, 1891, Los Angeles, Calif., U.S.—died July 9, 1974, Washington, D.C.) American jurist, the 14th chief justice of the United States (1953–69), who presided over the Supreme Court during a period of sweeping changes in U. Earth Day http://www.history.com/topics/earth-day Check out the history behind Earth Day. Find out how this green movement celebration soared from 20 million people in 1970 to over 1 billion today. Earth Day Timeline http://www.history.com/topics/earth-day-timeline Discover the history of Earth Day, the events that influenced it and the outcomes of its 40 year legacy. Easter Island http://www.history.com/topics/easter-island A tiny triangle of land in the South Pacific, Easter Island features hundreds of giant stone figures, traces of a rich Polynesian culture that developed over centuries in isolation. Easter Rising http://www.history.com/topics/easter-rising Around noon on Easter Monday of 1916, some 1,600 Irish nationalists--members of the Irish Volunteers--launched the so-called Easter Rising in Dublin, seizing a number of official buildings and calling on all Irish patriots to resist the bonds of British control. Easter Symbols and Traditions http://www.history.com/topics/easter-symbols Get to know how Easter symbols like the Easter egg and the Easter bunny originated. Discover how this holiday's customs are linked to pagan traditions. Edith Roosevelt http://www.history.com/topics/edith-roosevelt Edith Roosevelt was an American first lady and the second wife of Theodore Roosevelt. Edith Wilson http://www.history.com/topics/edith-wilson Edith Wilson was an American first lady who took over many presidential duties when her husband Woodrow suffered a stroke. Sir Edmund Hillary http://www.history.com/topics/edmund-hillary A beekeeper by trade, Hillary became the first human, along with Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, to reach the peak of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. Edwin M. Stanton http://www.history.com/topics/edwin-m-stanton Find out about Edwin McMasters Stanton, a lawyer and politician who served as Abraham Lincoln’s secretary of war during the Civil War. Eiffel Tower http://www.history.com/topics/eiffel-tower Explore the history of the Eiffel Tower, Paris' most iconic symbol and one of the leading tourist attractions in the world. Albert Einstein: Fact or Fiction? http://www.history.com/topics/einsteins-life-facts-and-fiction Separate myths about famed scientist Albert Einstein from reality. Eisenhower Doctrine http://www.history.com/topics/eisenhower-doctrine On January 5, 1957, in response to the increasingly tense situation in the Middle East, President Dwight D. Eisenhower delivered a proposal to Congress that called for a new and more proactive U.S. policy in the region. Eleanor of Aquitaine http://www.history.com/topics/eleanor-of-aquitaine Find out more about the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine (1137-1152), one of the most powerful and influential figures of the Middle Ages. Eleanor Roosevelt http://www.history.com/topics/eleanor-roosevelt First lady Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962), the wife of Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882-1945), the U.S. president from 1933 to 1945, was a leader in her own right and involved in numerous humanitarian causes throughout her life. 1789 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1789 The first presidential election was held on the first Wednesday of January in 1789. 1792 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1792 As in 1789, persuading George Washington to run was the major difficulty in selecting a president in 1792. 1796 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1796 The 1796 election, which took place against a background of increasingly harsh partisanship between Federalists and Republicans, was the first contested presidential race. 1800 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1800 The significance of the 1800 election lay in the fact that it entailed the first peaceful transfer of power between parties under the U. 1808 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1808 Republican James Madison was elevated to the presidency in the election of 1808. 1812 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1812 In the 1812 contest James Madison was reelected president by the narrowest margin of any election since the Republican party had come to power in 1800. 1816 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1816 In this election Republican James Monroe won the presidency with 183 electoral votes, carrying every state except Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Delaware. 1820 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1820 During James Monroe's first term, the country had suffered an economic depression. Election 1824 http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1824 The Republican party broke apart in the 1824 election. 1828 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1828 Andrew Jackson won the presidency in 1828 by a landslide, receiving a record 647,292 popular votes (56 percent) to 507,730 (44 percent) for the incumbent John Quincy Adams. 1832 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1832 Democratic-Republican Andrew Jackson was reelected in 1832 with 688,242 popular votes. 1836 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1836 The election of 1836 was largely a referendum on Andrew Jackson, but it also helped shape what is known as the second party system. 1840 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1840 The election of 1840 has been called the first modern political campaign because of the way image and merchandising were employed. 1844 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1844 The election of 1844 introduced expansion and slavery as important political issues and contributed to westward and southern growth and sectionalism. 1848 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1848 The election of 1848 underscored the increasingly important role of slavery in national politics. 1852 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1852 The 1852 election rang a death knell for the Whig party. 1856 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1856 The 1856 election was waged by new political coalitions and was the first to confront directly the issue of slavery. 1868 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1868 In this contest, Republican Ulysses S. 1872 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1872 President Ulysses S. Grant ran against New York Tribune editor Horace Greeley in 1872. 1876 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1876 In 1876 the Republican party nominated Rutherford B. Hayes of Ohio for president and William A. Wheeler of New York for vice president. 1880 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1880 The election of 1880 was as rich in partisan wrangling as it was lacking in major issues. 1884 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1884 This race, marred by negative campaigning and corruption, ended in the election of the first Democratic president since 1856. 1888 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1888 In 1888 the Democratic party nominated President Grover Cleveland and chose Allen G. Thurman of Ohio as his running mate, replacing Vice President Thomas Hendricks who had died in office. 1892 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1892 The Republican party in 1892 nominated President Benjamin Harrison and replaced Vice President Levi P. Morton with Whitelaw Reid of New York. 1900 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1900 In 1900 the Republicans nominated President William McKinley. 1904 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1904 This race confirmed the popularity of Theodore Roosevelt, who had become president when McKinley was assassinated, and moved Democrats away from bimetallism and toward progressivism. 1908 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1908 After Theodore Roosevelt declined to run for reelection in 1908, the Republican convention nominated Secretary of War William Howard Taft for president and Representative James Schoolcraft Sherman of New York as his running mate. 1912 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1912 In 1912, angered over what he felt was the betrayal of his policies by his hand-picked successor, President William Howard Taft, former president Theodore Roosevelt sought the Republican nomination. 1916 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1916 In 1916 the Progressive party convention tried to nominate Theodore Roosevelt again, but Roosevelt, seeking to reunify the Republicans, convinced the convention to support the Republican choice, Associate Justice Charles Evans Hughes. 1920 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1920 After a generation of progressive insurgency within the Republican party, it returned in 1920 to a conservative stance. 1924 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1924 The Republican nominees for president and vice president in 1924 were President Calvin Coolidge and Charles G. 1928 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1928 The Republican presidential nominee in 1928 was Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover of California. 1932 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1932 In 1932, the third year of the Great Depression, the Republican party nominated President Herbert Hoover and Vice President Charles Curtis. 1936 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1936 In 1936 the Democratic party nominated President Franklin D. 1940 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1940 In 1940 President Franklin D. Roosevelt won an unprecedented third term by a margin of nearly 5 million. 1944 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1944 By the beginning of 1944, in the middle of World War II, it was clear that President Franklin D. Roosevelt planned to run for a fourth term, and this shaped the coming campaign. 1948 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1948 President Harry S. Truman, who had succeeded President Roosevelt after his death in 1945, stood for reelection on the Democratic ticket with Alben Barkley of Kentucky as his running mate. 1952 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1952 When President Harry S. Truman declined to run for a third term, the Democratic convention nominated Governor Adlai E. Stevenson of Illinois for president on the third ballot. 1956 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1956 Despite suffering a heart attack and abdominal surgery during his first term, President Dwight D. Eisenhower was nominated by the Republicans for a second term without opposition. 1960 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1960 In 1960 the Democratic party nominated John F. Kennedy, a senator from Massachusetts, for president. 1964 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1964 The Democrats nominated Lyndon B. Johnson who had succeeded to the presidency upon the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. 1968 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1968 The Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and protests tied to both combined in a tumultuous year to cause a tight, unusual election closely linked to these issues. 1972 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1972 In 1972 the Republicans nominated President Richard M. Nixon and Vice President Spiro Agnew. 1976 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1976 In 1976 the Democratic party nominated former governor Jimmy Carter of Georgia for president and Senator Walter Mondale of Minnesota for vice president. 1980 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1980 In 1980 President Jimmy Carter was opposed for the Democratic nomination by Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts in ten primaries. 1984 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1984 In 1984 the Republicans renominated Ronald Reagan and George Bush. 1988 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1988 Although Vice President George Bush faced some opposition in the primaries from Senator Robert Dole of Kansas in 1988, he won the Republican nomination by acclamation. 1992 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1992 The 1992 Election saw incumbent President George H.W. Bush face-off against William J. Clinton and third party candidate H. Ross Perot. 1996 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-1996 The 1996 presidential election pitted incumbent William J. Clinton vs. Robert Dole and third party candidate H. Ross Perot. 2000 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-2000 In one of the closest presidential elections in U.S. history, George W. Bush defeated Al Gore and third party candidate Ralph Nader. 2004 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-2004 President George W. Bush faced-off against John Kerry in the 2004 presidential election. 2008 Election http://www.history.com/topics/elections-2008 In 2004, Barack Obama defeated John McCain to become the first African-American elected President of the United States. Electoral College http://www.history.com/topics/electoral-college How does the Electoral College work, and why do we use it? Eleven Battles of Isonzo http://www.history.com/topics/eleven-battles-of-isonzo When Italy entered World War I against Austria-Hungary on May 23, 1915, only the Isonzo valley at the southeastern end of the fortified mountain front offered prospects for a major offensive. Eli Whitney http://www.history.com/topics/eli-whitney (born December 8, 1765, Westboro, Massachusetts [U.S.]—died January 8, 1825, New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.) American inventor, mechanical engineer, and manufacturer, best remembered as the inventor of the cotton gin but most important for developing the concept of mass production of Eliza Johnson http://www.history.com/topics/eliza-johnson Eliza Johnson was an American first lady, the wife of Andrew Johnson, 17th president of the United States. Elizabeth Cady Stanton http://www.history.com/topics/elizabeth-cady-stanton (born , Nov. 12, 1815, Johnstown, N.Y., U.S.—died Oct. 26, 1902, New York, N.Y.) American leader in the women's rights movement who in 1848 formulated the first organized demand for woman suffrage in the United States. Elizabeth I http://www.history.com/topics/elizabeth-i Elizabeth I, who became known as the Virgin Queen, ruled during a period when England become a major world power in every respect. Elizabeth Monroe http://www.history.com/topics/elizabeth-monroe Elizabeth Madison was an American first lady, and wife of James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States. Ellen Arthur http://www.history.com/topics/ellen-arthur Ellen Arthur was the wife of Chester A. Arthur, 21st president of the United States who she died of pneumonia before her husband assumed office. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf http://www.history.com/topics/ellen-johnson-sirleaf (born Oct. 29, 1938, Monrovia, Liberia) Liberian politician and economist, who was president of Liberia from 2006. She was the first woman to be elected head of state of an African country. Ellen Wilson http://www.history.com/topics/ellen-wilson Ellen Wilson was an American first lady and the first wife of Woodrow Wilson, 28th president of the United States. Ellis Island http://www.history.com/topics/ellis-island Explore the legacy of historic Ellis Island. Find out about the important role it played in immigration to the United States on History.com. Emancipation Proclamation http://www.history.com/topics/emancipation-proclamation The Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 freed slaves in states that remained in rebellion during the American Civil War. Emmett Till http://www.history.com/topics/emmett-till Find out more about Emmett Till, an African American teenager whose murder catalyzed the emerging civil rights movement. Augustus http://www.history.com/topics/emperor-augustus Augusts was the first Roman emperor, following the republic, which had been finally destroyed by the dictatorship of Julius Caesar, his great-uncle and adoptive father. Energy Crisis (1970s) http://www.history.com/topics/energy-crisis A 1973 embargo by oil-rich Arab nations on shipping petroleum to the United States and other nations sparked an international energy crisis. English Civil Wars http://www.history.com/topics/english-civil-wars The English Civil Wars (1642-51) were a series of battles that took place between supporters of the monarchy of Charles I (and his son and successor, Charles II) and opposing groups in England, Scotland and Ireland. Enlightenment http://www.history.com/topics/enlightenment Get the facts on the Enlightenment, a movement that radically transformed European politics, philosophy, science and communications. Erich Ludendorff http://www.history.com/topics/erich-ludendorff Erich Ludendorff embodied the strengths and weaknesses of the imperial German army in the twentieth century. Erwin Rommel http://www.history.com/topics/erwin-rommel-erwin German World War II Field Marshal Erwin Rommel gained immortality in the North African campaign of 1941-1943. Ethan Allen http://www.history.com/topics/ethan-allen Ethan Allen was a Revolutionary War hero and a founder of the Republic of Vermont. Ether and Chloroform http://www.history.com/topics/ether-and-chloroform Beginning in the mid-19th century, doctors regularly used ether or chloroform before surgical procedures in order to render patients unconscious and unable to feel pain. Ethnic Cleansing http://www.history.com/topics/ethnic-cleansing The term ethnic cleansing came into wide usage in the 1990s, to describe the treatment suffered by particular ethnic groups during conflicts that erupted in Bosnia-Herzegovina and other parts of the former Yugoslavia. Eugene V. Debs http://www.history.com/topics/eugene-v-debs (born November 5, 1855, Terre Haute, Indiana, U.S.—died October 20, 1926, Elmhurst, Illinois) labour organizer and Socialist Party candidate for U. Exploration of North America http://www.history.com/topics/exploration-of-north-america Years after the earliest Viking expeditions, European nations began a centuries long quest of exploration and conquest in the Americas. Islam Facts http://www.history.com/topics/facts-about-the-religion-of-islam Many ancient-Greek writings, including the work of Aristotle, were introduced to Europe during the late Middle Ages by Islamic scholars. Frederick Douglass http://www.history.com/topics/frederick-douglass Douglass was a prominent abolitionist, author and orator. One of the most prominent African Americans of the 19th century. Ferdinand Foch http://www.history.com/topics/ferdinand-foch Ferdinand Foch was the most inspired of the Western Front generals in World War I, sometimes to his detriment. Francisco Vázquez de Coronado http://www.history.com/topics/francisco-vazquez-de-coronado While searching for mythic treasure-filled cities, Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado blazed a trail through much of the southwestern region of North America. Federalist papers http://www.history.com/topics/federalist-papers series of 85 essays on the proposed new Constitution of the United States and on the nature of republican government, published between 1787 and 1788 by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay in an effort to persuade New York state voters to support ratification. Fugitive Slave Acts http://www.history.com/topics/fugitive-slave-acts The Fugitive Slave Acts, which allowed for the seizure and return of runaway slaves, heightened tensions between North and South in years leading up to the Civil War. Fidel Castro http://www.history.com/topics/fidel-castro After assuming power in 1959, Fidel Castro transformed Cuba into the first communist state in the Western Hemisphere. Federalist Party http://www.history.com/topics/federalist-party early U.S. national political party, which advocated a strong central government and held power from 1789 to 1801. The term federalist was first used in 1787 to describe the supporters of the newly written Constitution, who emphasized the federal character of the proposed Union. Fifteenth Amendment http://www.history.com/topics/fifteenth-amendment The 15th Amendment to the Constitution guaranteed that the right to vote could not be denied based on “race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Fort Pillow Massacre http://www.history.com/topics/fort-pillow-massacre The Fort Pillow Massacre, in which more than 300 African-American soldiers were killed, was one of the most controversial events of the American Civil War. Fort Sumter http://www.history.com/topics/fort-sumter Get the facts on Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War rang out in April 1861. Fourteenth Amendment http://www.history.com/topics/fourteenth-amendment The 14th Amendment granted citizenship and equal civil and legal rights to African-Americans and slaves who had been emancipated after the American Civil War. Francisco Franco http://www.history.com/topics/francisco-franco Get the facts on the general and dictator Francisco Franco ruled over Spain from 1939 until his death in 1975. Felix Frankfurter http://www.history.com/topics/felix-frankfurter (born Nov. 15, 1882, Vienna, Austria-Hungary—died Feb. 22, 1965, Washington, D.C., U.S.) associate justice of the United States Supreme Court (1939–62), a noted scholar and teacher of law, who was in his time the high court's leading exponent of the doctrine of judicial self-restraint. Frederick II http://www.history.com/topics/frederick-ii-prussia Get the facts on Prussian ruler Frederick II, who led his nation through multiple wars with Austria and its allies. French and Indian War http://www.history.com/topics/french-and-indian-war The French and Indian War lasted from 1756 to 1763, forming a chapter in the imperial struggle between Britain and France called the Second Hundred Years' War. French Revolution http://www.history.com/topics/french-revolution Explore the history, causes and timeline of the French Revolution, a turbulent and violent era that saw the storming of the Bastille, the toppling of the monarchy and the creation of a republic in France. Fannie Lou Hamer http://www.history.com/topics/fannie-lou-hamer Explore the life of Fannie Lou Hamer, an African-American civil rights activist who worked to desegregate the Mississippi Democratic Party. Florence Nightingale http://www.history.com/topics/florence-nightingale Francisco Pizarro http://www.history.com/topics/francisco-pizarro (born c. 1475, Trujillo, Extremadura, Castile [Spain]—died June 26, 1541, Lima [now in Peru]) Spanish conqueror of the Inca empire and founder of the city of Lima. Ferdinand Magellan http://www.history.com/topics/ferdinand-magellan Discover the explorer Ferdinand Magellan. See how his voyages across the Pacific Ocean changed people's view of the globe and influenced world history. Florence Harding http://www.history.com/topics/florence-harding Florence Harding was an American first lady and the wife of Warren G. Harding, 29th president of the United States. Florida http://www.history.com/topics/florida Florida, which joined the union in 1845, is known for its tourism industry, orange crop and warm climate. Frances Cleveland http://www.history.com/topics/frances-cleveland Wife of president Grover Cleveland, Frances Cleveland, was the youngest first lady in American history. Father's Day http://www.history.com/topics/fathers-day Get the full story of Father's Day, which became an official U.S. holiday in 1972. Freedom Summer http://www.history.com/topics/freedom-summer Freedom Summer was a 1964 voter registration project in Mississippi, part of a larger effort by civil rights groups to expand black voting in the South. Franklin Pierce http://www.history.com/topics/franklin-pierce After serving as a Democratic congressman from New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce was elected as the 14th president of the United States (1853-1857). Franklin D. Roosevelt http://www.history.com/topics/franklin-d-roosevelt Find out more about Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd U.S. president. First Battle of Marne http://www.history.com/topics/first-battle-of-marne The First Battle of the Marne was fought to the north and east of Paris in early September 1914 Famous Firsts in American Women's History http://www.history.com/topics/famous-firsts-american-womens-history American history has been full of pioneering women who made great strides in science, politics, sports and art. Fair Housing Act of 1968 http://www.history.com/topics/fair-housing-act The Fair Housing Act (or Civil Rights Act) of 1968 sought to end discrimination in the sale, rental and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin and sex. Freedom Rides http://www.history.com/topics/freedom-rides Get the facts about the Freedom Rides of 1961, when civil rights activists traveled throughout the American South to protest segregation. The Freedom Riders encountered extreme violence from white protestors during many stops on their trips. Formation of NATO and Warsaw Pact http://www.history.com/topics/formation-of-nato-and-warsaw-pact The Cold War tensions that followed World War II prompted Western and Communist nations to form separate military alliances, resulting in the creation of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949 and the Warsaw Pact in 1955. Flatiron Building http://www.history.com/topics/flatiron-building The Flatiron Building, built in 1902, was one of the first skyscrapers in New York, and remains one of the city's most iconic buildings. The Fireside Chats http://www.history.com/topics/fireside-chats From 1933 to 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave a series of radio addresses--or "fireside chats"--that helped restore the confidence of the American people during economic recession and war. Frank Wilson http://www.history.com/topics/frank-wilson In 1931, the Internal Revenue Service’s Intelligence Unit completed an investigation of Chicago gangster Al Capone that would lead to his conviction for federal income tax evasion; Special Agent Frank Wilson played a leading role in that investigation. Frances Perkins http://www.history.com/topics/frances-perkins Frances Perkins was a social reformer and the first female cabinet member, serving as Franklin Roosevelt's Secretary of Labor. F. Scott Fitzgerald http://www.history.com/topics/f-scott-fitzgerald F. Scott Fitzgerald was an American novelist and chronicler of the "Jazz Age." Freedmen's Bureau http://www.history.com/topics/freedmens-bureau In existence from 1865 to 1872, the U.S. Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands, popularly known as the Freedmen’s Bureau, was a federal agency created to aid newly freed slaves and impoverished whites in the South following the U.S. Civil War (1861-65). Famous Leaks in U.S. History http://www.history.com/topics/famous-leaks-in-us-history Throughout U.S. history, leaks have shaped public opinion and public policy, raising vital questions about the role of the press and the people's right to know. Flight 93 http://www.history.com/topics/flight-93 Flight 93 was hijacked during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, but the passengers fought the hijackers and prevented the plane from reaching its intended target. World War II Bombs Force Evacuations in France http://www.history.com/topics/france-wwii-bombs More than 60 years after World War II ended, its deadliest remnants still pose a threat to residents of European cities like Rennes, France, where 10,000 people were evacuated on October 24 after the discovery of a live bomb. Face-to-Face Moments That Changed the World http://www.history.com/topics/face-to-face-moments-that-changed-the-world Explore the history of five face-to-face meetings that have altered the course of history and changed the world,. First Ladies http://www.history.com/topics/first-ladies The first lady of the United States is the hostess of the White House, and is traditionally the wife of the president. From Martha Washington to Michelle Obama, meet all the first ladies. Fall of the Soviet Union http://www.history.com/topics/fall-of-soviet-union Find out about the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, when the once-mighty USSR crumbled into 16 independent nations. HISTORY Film Corps http://www.history.com/topics/film-corps The HISTORY Film Corps program seeks out and preserves footage from America's past. Famous American Vietnam Vets http://www.history.com/topics/famous-american-vietnam-vets- Get to know some U.S. veterans of the Vietnam War who went on to distinguished careers in a variety of fields. First Thanksgiving Meal http://www.history.com/topics/first-thanksgiving-meal Find out what the Pilgrims and Native Americans ate at the first Thanksgiving in November 1621. Flight 93 Memorial Dedication: Live Webcast http://www.history.com/flight-93-post-event Watch the live dedication ceremony of the Flight 93 National Memorial on Saturday, September 10, 2011, at 12:30pm ET/9:30am PT. Gentlemen's Agreement http://www.history.com/topics/gentlemens-agreement The Gentlemen's Agreement between the United States and Japan in 1907-1908 represented an effort by President Theodore Roosevelt to calm growing tension between the two countries over the immigration of Japanese workers. Geronimo http://www.history.com/topics/geronimo (1829-1909), Apache Indian chief. Guerrilla Warfare http://www.history.com/topics/guerrilla-warfare This form of warfare derives its modern name from Spanish "guerrilla" (little war). George C. Marshall http://www.history.com/topics/george-c-marshall George Marshall remains, after George Washington, the most respected soldier in American history. George Washington Carver http://www.history.com/topics/george-washington-carver Growing mainly from his research on peanuts, his rise to fame created myths and obscured much of the true nature of his work. Grace Coolidge http://www.history.com/topics/grace-coolidge Grace Coolidge was an American first lady, the wife of Calvin Coolidge, 30th president of the United States. German-Soviet Nonaggression Pact http://www.history.com/topics/german-soviet-nonaggression-pact In 1939, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union concluded the German-Soviet Nonaggression Pact, in which both countries, despite their history of fierce enmity, agreed to take no military action against the other for 10 years. Grand Canyon http://www.history.com/topics/grand-canyon Get the facts on the history of the Grand Canyon, one of America's largest and most iconic landmarks. Greek Mythology http://www.history.com/topics/greek-mythology Find out more about the Zeus, Hera, Aphrodite, Apollo and all the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology. George W. Bush http://www.history.com/topics/george-w-bush America's 43rd president, George W. Bush established the Department of Homeland Security after the 9/11 attacks. George Bush http://www.history.com/topics/george-bush George Bush, the 41st president of the United States, served during the Persian Gulf War and the fall of the Soviet Union. George Armstrong Custer http://www.history.com/topics/george-armstrong-custer Custer distinguished himself in the American Civil War before leading his men to death at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. Geraldine A. Ferraro http://www.history.com/topics/geraldine-a-ferraro (born Aug. 26, 1935, Newburgh, N.Y., U.S.) American politician who became the first woman to be nominated for vice president by a major political party in the United States. Gerald Ford http://www.history.com/topics/gerald-r-ford America's 38th president, Gerald Ford, took office following the resignation of disgraced President Richard Nixon. Galveston Hurricane of 1900 http://www.history.com/topics/galveston-hurricane-of-1900 On September 8, 1900, a Category 4 hurricane ripped through Galveston, Texas, killing an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people. Genghis Khan http://www.history.com/topics/genghis-khan Get the facts on Mongol leader Genghis Khan, who rose from humble beginnings to establish the largest land empire in history. George III http://www.history.com/topics/george-iii Get the facts on King George III, who ruled Britain for 59 years. Georgia http://www.history.com/topics/georgia Explore the history of Georgia, the youngest of the 13 former English colonies. Find out about Georgia's geography, culture, economy and more on History.com. Gnadenhütten Massacre http://www.history.com/topics/gnadenhutten-massacre On March 8, 1782, 160 Pennsylvania militiamen murdered 96 unarmed Christian Indians in their Moravian Mission at Gnadenhuetten in the Ohio Country. Great Hurricane of 1780 http://www.history.com/topics/great-hurricane-of-1780 On October 10, 1780, a powerful storm slammed the islands of the West Indies, killing more than 20,000 people. Gunpowder Plot http://www.history.com/topics/gunpowder-plot The Gunpowder Plot was a failed attempt to blow up England’s King James I (1566-1625) and the Parliament on November 5, 1605. Guglielmo Marconi http://www.history.com/topics/guglielmo-marconi Explore the life of Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi, who developed the first successful long-distance wireless telegraph and broadcast the first transatlantic radio signal. George McClellan http://www.history.com/topics/george-b-mcclellan Gen. George McClellan skillfully reorganized Union forces early in the American Civil War )1861-1865) but drew wide criticism for repeatedly failing to press his advantage over Confederate troops. George G. Meade http://www.history.com/topics/george-g-meade Explore the life of Civil War general George Meade, who commanded the Union Army of the Potomac. Gouverneur Morris http://www.history.com/topics/gouverneur-morris (born , Jan. 31, 1752, Morrisania house, Manhattan [now in New York City]—died Nov. 6, 1816, Morrisania house) American statesman, diplomat, and financial expert who helped plan the U. George S. Patton http://www.history.com/topics/george-smith-patton U.S. Army officer George S. Patton helped lead Allied troops to victory during World War II; he is considered one of the most successful combat generals in history. George Pickett http://www.history.com/topics/george-edward-pickett Get the facts on George Pickett, a U.S. military officer who became a Confederate major general during the Civil War. The Great Depression http://www.history.com/topics/great-depression Find out more about the decade-long economic downturn known as the Great Depression. Ghosts in the White House http://www.history.com/topics/ghosts-in-the-white-house One of the most famous haunted houses in America may be the White House. Gloria Steinem http://www.history.com/topics/gloria-steinem (born March 25, 1934, Toledo, Ohio, U.S.) American feminist, political activist, and editor, an articulate advocate of the women's liberation movement during the late 20th century. Grover Cleveland http://www.history.com/topics/grover-cleveland Grover Cleveland served as the 22nd and 24th president of the United States and was known as a political reformer. Gulf of Tonkin Resolution http://www.history.com/topics/gulf-of-tonkin-resolution The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution (August 7, 1964) gave broad congressional approval for expansion of the Vietnam War. George Washington http://www.history.com/topics/george-washington George Washington (1732-99) was commander in chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War (1775-83) and served two terms as the first U.S. president, from 1789 to 1797. Guanajuato http://www.history.com/topics/guanajuato Guanajuato is the birthplace of famed muralist Diego Rivera. Teotihuacán features sophisticated ancient architecture, the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon and Ciudadela, a great sunken plaza. Guerrero http://www.history.com/topics/guerrero From the renowned beaches of Acapulco and Ixtapa to the silversmiths of Taxco, Guerrero is known as a mecca for ocean-loving tourists and sports fisherman. Great Romances http://www.history.com/topics/great-romances Celebrate Valentine's Day with inspiring stories about famous couples. Greensboro Sit-In and the Sit-In Movement http://www.history.com/topics/greensboro-sit-in The sit-in protesting segregated policies at a North Carolina store in 1960 was a pivotal event in the fight for civil rights. Chicago Fire of 1871 http://www.history.com/topics/great-chicago-fire Also known as the Great Chicago Fire, the Chicago Fire of 1871 was one of the most famous and most devastating fires in American history.. Gatling Gun http://www.history.com/topics/gatling-gun The Gatling gun was a hand-driven machine gun, the first to solve the problems of loading, reliability, and the firing of sustained bursts. Great Migration http://www.history.com/topics/great-migration From 1916 to 1970, more than 6 million African Americans left the rural South for large cities across the North and West, in what was known as the Great Migration. Garand Rifle http://www.history.com/topics/garand-rifle The semi-automatic M1 Garand rifle was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1936, and was the basic U.S. infantry weapon in World War II and the Korean War. The Gold Rush of 1849 http://www.history.com/topics/gold-rush-of-1849 During the Gold Rush of 1849, tens of thousands of people flocked to California to seek their fortunes mining gold. It was the largest migration in United States history. George Waring http://www.history.com/topics/george-waring After designing early sewage systems, George Waring put his military background and reforming spirit to good use as New York City's commissioner of sanitation from 1895 to 1898. G.I Bill http://www.history.com/topics/gi-bill The G.I. bill, officially the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, provided many benefits to veterans of World War II. Galileo Galilei http://www.history.com/topics/galileo-galilei Get the facts on Galileo Galilei, considered the father of modern science. Ground Zero http://www.history.com/topics/ground-zero Ground Zero was the name given to the area where New York City's World Trade Center collapsed after the attacks of September 11, 2001. Great Wall of China http://www.history.com/topics/great-wall-of-china The Great Wall of China, a system of defensive walls and fortifications across northern China, was constructed over a span of 2,000 years. The Gettysburg Address http://www.history.com/topics/gettysburg-address The Gettysburg Address, delivered by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, is one of the classic speeches in American history. Great and Telling Tales http://www.history.com/topics/great-and-telling-tales Storyteller Timothy Dickinson serves up anecdotes from the stranger side of history in the original web series Great and Telling Tales. Give150 http://www.history.com/give150 Storyteller Timothy Dickinson serves up anecdotes from the stranger side of history in the original web series Great and Telling Tales. Veterans Day http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-veterans-day Discover the history of Veterans Day. Find out how Armistice Day was celebrated in 1919, why its name changed to Veterans Day and more on History.com. History of Christmas Trees http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-christmas-trees Discover the history of the Christmas tree. Before the advent of Christianity, trees that remained green all year had a special meaning for people. Easter http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-easter Discover the history of Easter and the religious significance of this Christian holiday. Find out how Easter is celebrated around the world and much more. Famous Ghosts in American History http://www.history.com/topics/haunted-historic-places Some of America's most famous citizens are now reported among its most famous ghosts. Halloween Around The World http://www.history.com/topics/halloween-around-the-world Halloween, one of the world’s oldest holidays, is celebrated around the world with a variety of somber, spooky and fun traditions. Hanukkah http://www.history.com/topics/hanukkah Discover the history of Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight days. Find out about dreidels, menorahs, Hanukkah foods & more. History of UFOs http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-ufos Since ancient times, there have been numerous sightings of unidentified flying objects. History's Romantics http://www.history.com/topics/historys-romantics From Sappho to Elizabeth Taylor, read about some of the most famous romantics in history. Emperor Hirorito Surrenders to the Allies http://www.history.com/topics/hirohitos-surrender Text of Hirohito's surrender on August 15, 1945. Homestead Strike http://www.history.com/topics/homestead-strike The Homestead strike pitted one of the most powerful new corporations, Carnegie Steel Company, against the nation's strongest trade union, the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers. Harriet Beecher Stowe http://www.history.com/topics/harriet-beecher-stowe Stowe wrote Uncle Tom's Cabin, her most celebrated work, in response to the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Harriet Tubman http://www.history.com/topics/harriet-tubman Harriet Tubman's life was a testimony to the fierce resistance of African American people to slavery. Henri-Philippe Pétain http://www.history.com/topics/henri-philippe-petain Marshal Henri-Philippe Pétain endeared himself to the French nation during World War I. Henry A. Kissinger http://www.history.com/topics/henry-kissinger (1923- ), foreign policy specialist, national security adviser, and secretary of state. Henry Clay http://www.history.com/topics/henry-clay (born April 12, 1777, Hanover county, Va., U.S.—died June 29, 1852, Washington, D.C.) American statesman, U.S. congressman (1811–14, 1815–21, 1823–25) and U. Hillary Rodham Clinton http://www.history.com/topics/hillary-rodham-clinton First lady and wife of Bill Clinton, Hillary Rodham Clinton became a US senator, presidential candidate, and secretary of state. Hernán Cortés, marqués del Valle de Oaxaca http://www.history.com/topics/hernan-cortes-marques-del-valle-de-oaxaca (born 1485, Medellín, near Mérida, Extremadura, Castile [Spain]—died December 2, 1547, Castilleja de la Cuesta, near Sevilla) Spanish conquistador who overthrew the Aztec empire (1519–21) and won Mexico for the crown of Spain. Henry Ford http://www.history.com/topics/henry-ford Engineer, automaker and industrialist Henry Ford introduced the first affordable passenger automobile, the Model T, and pioneered assembly-line production. Henry W. Halleck http://www.history.com/topics/henry-w-halleck Henry Halleck was a Union officer during the American Civil War who, despite his administrative skill as general in chief, failed to achieve an overall battle strategy for Union forces. Hammurabi http://www.history.com/topics/hammurabi Hammurabi was the first king of the Babylonian Empire, best remembered for a surviving set of laws, once considered the oldest promulgation of laws in human history. Hampton Roads Conference http://www.history.com/topics/hampton-roads-conference On February 2, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln met with Confederate officials to discuss the possibility of an end to the American Civil War. Hannibal http://www.history.com/topics/hannibal Hannibal, one of the most famous generals in history, led the forces of Carthage against those of the Roman Empire during the Second Punic War. Henry V http://www.history.com/topics/henry-v-england Find out more about King Henry V of England, remembered for leading two successful invasions of France and securing control of the French throne. Henry VIII http://www.history.com/topics/henry-viii Get the facts on King Henry VIII, known for his six wives and break with the papacy. Hirohito http://www.history.com/topics/hirohito Get the facts on Hirohito, emperor of Japan from 1926 until his death in 1989. Homestead Act http://www.history.com/topics/homestead-act The 1862 Homestead Act set in motion a program of public land grants to small farmers. Henry Hudson http://www.history.com/topics/henry-hudson Driven by his desire to find a shorter route from Europe to Asia, the headstrong English navigator Henry Hudson (1565-1611) opened European eyes to the potential of North America. Hubert H. Humphrey http://www.history.com/topics/hubert-h-humphrey In addition to his long career in the U.S. Senate, Hubert Humphrey served as U.S. vice president from 1965 to 1969 and was the Democratic presidential candidate in 1968. Hundred Years' War http://www.history.com/topics/hundred-years-war an intermittent struggle between England and France in the 14th–15th century over a series of disputes, including the question of the legitimate succession to the French crown. Hurricane Katrina http://www.history.com/topics/hurricane-katrina On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast of the United States. Nearly 2,000 people died in the storm and its aftermath, and hundreds of thousands more were displaced from their homes. Huey Long http://www.history.com/topics/huey-long (born Aug. 30, 1893, near Winnfield, La., U.S.—died Sept. 10, 1935, Baton Rouge, La.) flamboyant and demagogic governor of Louisiana and U. Hurricane Mitch http://www.history.com/topics/hurricane-mitch On October 26, 1998, Hurricane Mitch hit Central America. The storm, the most deadly hurricane to hit the Western Hemisphere in more than 200 years, went on to kill thousands of people. Hernando de Soto http://www.history.com/topics/hernando-de-soto After taking part in the conquests of Central America and Peru, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto became the first European to cross the Mississippi River. History of Ghost Stories http://www.history.com/topics/historical-ghost-stories Ever since ancient times, the folklore of many cultures around the world has been rife with ghost stories, some featuring notable historical figures. Hannah Van Buren http://www.history.com/topics/hannah-van-buren Hannah Van Buren was the wife of Martin Van Buren, the eighth president of the United States. Hatshepsut http://www.history.com/topics/hatshepsut The powerful female pharaoh Hatshepsut ruled ancient Egypt for more than 20 years (circa 1473-58 B.C.) as a member of the 18th dynasty. Hawaii http://www.history.com/topics/hawaii Uncover the history of Hawaii, a group of tropical islands that became the 50th U.S. state in 1959. Find out about Hawaii's geography, culture and more. Haymarket Square Riot http://www.history.com/topics/haymarket-riot On May 4, 1886 at Haymarket Square in Chicago, a bomb was thrown at a squad of policemen attempting to break up a labor rally. Helen Taft http://www.history.com/topics/helen-taft Helen Taft was an American first lady and wife of president William Howard Taft. Herbert Asquith http://www.history.com/topics/hh-asquith-1st-earl-of-oxford-and-asquith British politician Herbert Henry (or H.H.) Asquith (1852-1928), a reform-minded member of the Liberal Party, served in Parliament for three decades and was prime minister from 1908 to 1916, leading Britain during the first years of World War I (1914-18). Hollywood Ten http://www.history.com/topics/hollywood-ten The Hollywood Ten was a group of prominent screenwriters and directors who in 1947 appeared before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and refused to answer questions about their possible ties to the Communist Party. The men were sent to prison for contempt of Congress and later Harlem Renaissance http://www.history.com/topics/harlem-renaissance Spanning the 1920s to the mid-1930s, this literary, artistic and intellectual movement kindled a new black cultural identity. Herbert Hoover http://www.history.com/topics/herbert-hoover Hoover, the 31st president of the United States, took office the year that the stock market crashed, leading to the Great Depression. HUAC (House Un-American Activities Committee) http://www.history.com/topics/house-un-american-activities-committee The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) was a powerful and controversial force in the investigation of alleged communist activity in America during the early years of the Cold War (1945-91). Harry Truman http://www.history.com/topics/harry-truman Explore the history of Harry Truman, the 33rd U.S. president, who served from 1945 to 1953 and saw the country through World War II after FDR's death. Hanukkah Traditions http://www.history.com/topics/hanukkah-traditions Hanukkah menorahs can come in all shapes and sizes, but the flames cannot be too big. Find out why and discover the history behind other popular Hanukkah traditions like dreidels and latkes. Halloween http://www.history.com/topics/halloween Get the facts on Halloween history and traditions, including its ancient roots and today's candy craze. Hidalgo http://www.history.com/topics/hidalgo Named for the revolutionary leader Miguel Hidalgo, the state is fiercely independent: The Mexican Revolution lasted longer in this state than in any other. Hellenistic Greece http://www.history.com/topics/hellenistic-greece The Hellenistic Age lasted from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C. until the rise of the Roman Empire in 31 B.C. Herodotus http://www.history.com/topics/herodotus Many people believe that the writer Herodotus (c. 485–425 B.C.) was the world’s first historian--the first writer to research past events and present his findings in an organized, thematic way. Hindenburg http://www.history.com/topics/hindenburg This German airship exploded as it landed in New Jersey in 1937, killing 36 people. Hanukkah World Records http://www.history.com/topics/hanukkah-world-records Ever since the days of the Maccabees, Jews around the world have been attempting incredible feats in honor of Hanukkah. John Brown's Harpers Ferry http://www.history.com/topics/harpers-ferry The West Virginia town of Harpers Ferry was the site of an 1859 raid that was a major precursor to the Civil War. Hoovervilles http://www.history.com/topics/hoovervilles During the Great Depression, untold numbers of homeless people built shantytowns known as Hoovervilles across the U.S. Helen Keller http://www.history.com/topics/helen-keller Helen Keller was an author, lecturer, and crusader for the handicapped. Hoover Dam http://www.history.com/topics/hoover-dam Built in the 1930s, Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam that spans the Colorado River at the Arizona-Nevada border and impounds Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States. Home Insurance Building http://www.history.com/topics/home-insurance-building Built in 1885 in Chicago, the 12-story, 180-foot (55-meter) Home Insurance Building is generally considered to be the world's first skyscraper. History of Logging http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-logging Logging's roots in America stretch back to the early 1600s. Ho Chi Minh http://www.history.com/topics/ho-chi-minh Find out more about Ho Chi Minh (1890-1969), the Vietnamese nationalist leader. Historic Chicago http://www.history.com/topics/historic-chicago Chicago is home to many historic destinations, including Wrigley Field and the Tribune Tower. Historic New York City http://www.history.com/topics/historic-new-york-city New York City has a wealth of history and historic places to visit. Historic San Francisco http://www.history.com/topics/historic-san-francisco From the stately Victorian-era mansions to the bustling Fisherman's Wharf to one of the country's oldest Chinatowns, San Francisco's rich history is visible around every corner. History of the Holidays http://www.history.com/topics/holidays Holidays are a time for family and friends, feasting or fasting. They bring people together, commemorate historic events and usher in the seasons. Whether religious or secular, every celebration has its own unique story. Discover the history behind the holidays. Himalayas http://www.history.com/topics/himalayas The Himalayas are the greatest mountain system on Earth, with more than 110 peaks rising to elevations of 24,000 feet or more above sea level. Mount Everest was first successfully scaled in May 1953 by New Zealand explorer Edmund Hilary and native Sherpa guide Tanzing Norgay. Henry Slocum http://www.history.com/topics/henry-slocum Explore the life of Henry Slocum, an American Civil War general. Hugh Judson Kilpatrick http://www.history.com/topics/hugh-judson-kilpatrick Explore the life of Hugh Judson Kilpatrick, who served as a major general in the Union Army. . Hercules http://www.history.com/topics/hercules Explore the myth of Hercules, a great hero in Greek and Roman folklore, whose story has been told for thousands of years. History of War http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-war Explore military history and the history of war. Fought over resources, land or ideological differences, wars have continued to redraw the world map. History of Trick-or-Treating http://www.history.com/topics/history-of-trick-or-treating Trick-or-treating—going from house to house in search of candy and other goodies—has been a popular Halloween tradition in the United States and other countries for an estimated 100 years. Hidden History http://www.history.com/topics/hidden-history From Grand Central to Wall Street, go inside some of New York City's most famous places and discover the history hidden in plain sight. History Infographics http://www.history.com/topics/history-infographics From the history of the holidays to the building of the pyramids, explore this series of infographics to get history by the numbers. About H2 - Historical Television Network from the History Channel http://www.history.com/h2 Find out about the historical documentaries and programs available on the H2 television network, including Ancient Aliens, Modern Marvels and The Universe. Ida McKinley http://www.history.com/topics/ida-mckinley Ida McKinley was an American first lady and the wife of president William McKinley. Idaho http://www.history.com/topics/idaho Admitted to the union in 1890, Idaho is a mountainous state in the Pacific Northwest region. Idi Amin http://www.history.com/topics/idi-amin Idi Amin, president of Uganda from 1971-1979, is best known for his brutal regime, which terrorized civilians and wreaked havoc on the Ugandan economy. Illinois http://www.history.com/topics/illinois The 21st member of the union, Illinois lies within both the old industrial belt and the fertile agricultural heart of the U.S. Inch'on Landing http://www.history.com/topics/inchon In September 1950, U.S. and South Korean forces made an amphibious landing at the port of Inch'on, near the South Korean capital, Seoul. Indiana http://www.history.com/topics/indiana Although Indiana is historically part of the North, many parts of the state display a character that is much like that of the South. Indira Gandhi http://www.history.com/topics/indira-gandhi Indira Gandhi served as India’s prime minister from 1966-77 and again from 1980 until her assassination by Sikh bodyguards in 1984. Industrial Revolution http://www.history.com/topics/industrial-revolution Explore the history of the Industrial Revolution, which began in Britain in the 1700s. Inside Air Force One http://www.history.com/topics/inside-air-force-one Learn about "the Flying White House," Air Force One. Interchangeable Parts http://www.history.com/topics/interchangeable-parts The use of interchangeable parts to produce guns became the foundation of the machine tool industry and of mass production. The Interstate Highway System http://www.history.com/topics/interstate-highway-system The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 created 40,000 miles of high-speed roads and changed the American landscape. Invasion of Sicily http://www.history.com/topics/invasion-of-sicily The Allied invasion of Sicily in July 1943 marked the beginning of the Italian Campaign in World War II (1939-45). After 38 days of fighting, the U.S. and Great Britain drove Germany and Italy from Sicily and prepared to assault the Italian mainland. The Invention of the Internet http://www.history.com/topics/invention-of-the-internet The Internet that we use today is the result of more than 50 years of work by scientists, scholars and government agencies. Invention of the PC http://www.history.com/topics/invention-of-the-pc Find out more about the invention of the personal computer. Inventions http://www.history.com/topics/inventions Explore some of the inventions and inventors that have had the biggest impact on modern life. Iowa http://www.history.com/topics/iowa The 29th U.S. state, Iowa is an agricultural center and plays a unique role in the presidential election process despite its small size. Iran Hostage Crisis http://www.history.com/topics/iran-hostage-crisis Get the full story of the 1979 Iran Hostage Crisis, when a group of Iranian students seized control of the American embassy in Tehran for 444 days. Iran-Iraq War http://www.history.com/topics/iran-iraq-war (1980–88), prolonged military conflict between Iran and Iraq during the 1980s. Open warfare began on Sept. 22, 1980, when Iraqi armed forces invaded western Iran along the countries' joint border, though Iraq claimed that the war had begun earlier that month, on September 4, when Iran shelled St. Patrick's Day Recipes http://www.history.com/topics/irish-recipes-st-patricks-day Make great St. Patrick's Day recipes like corned beef and cabbage or Irish soda bread. Iron and Steel Industry http://www.history.com/topics/iron-and-steel-industry The iron and steel industry drove the American Industrial Revolution and propelled America into a world economic power. Italian Campaign http://www.history.com/topics/italian-campaign In the Italian Campaign of World War II (1939-45), Allied forces invaded Sicily in 1943 and then fought battles up the Italian peninsula for nearly two years on a bloody path toward Nazi Germany. Italian Renaissance http://www.history.com/topics/italian-renaissance The Italian Renaissance that began in the late 14th century was an era of great artistic and intellectual achievement. John Wilkes Booth http://www.history.com/topics/john-wilkes-booth An actor and Confederate sympathizer, John Wilkes Booth assassinated President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. History of the Jack O' Lantern http://www.history.com/topics/jack-olantern-history Explore the origins and the history of the Jack-o-lantern. Find out how the Jack-o-lantern originated from an Irish myth about a man nicknamed Stingy Jack. John Brown http://www.history.com/topics/john-brown A radical abolitionist, John Brown led the raid on Harpers Ferry hoping to incite and arm a slave rebellion. John Jay http://www.history.com/topics/john-jay (1745-1829), member of the Continental Congress, diplomat, and first chief justice, U.S. Supreme Court. John Paul Jones http://www.history.com/topics/john-paul-jones (1747-1792), naval officer. Joseph R. McCarthy http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-mccarthy For many people, Republican Senator Joseph P. McCarthy of Wisconsin remains an enduring symbol of the so-called Red Scare that gripped the United States in the late 1940s and early 1950s. During this time, the prospect of communist subversion at home and abroad seemed frighteningly real to many Jeannette Rankin http://www.history.com/topics/jeannette-rankin (1880-1973), suffragist, pacifist, and congresswoman. John Smith http://www.history.com/topics/john-smith (1580-1631), colonizer and publicist. John French http://www.history.com/topics/john-french French's unorthodox early career may explain some of his later difficulty in commanding the British Expeditionary Force in 1914-1915. Joseph Joffre http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-joffre French Commander in Chief and Marshal John J. Pershing http://www.history.com/topics/john-j-pershing U.S. World War I Army Commander Joseph Stalin http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-stalin Communist dictator Joseph Stalin led the Soviet Union to victory in World War II and employed brutal tactics that resulted in the deaths of millions. John Gotti http://www.history.com/topics/john-gotti (born October 27, 1940, South Bronx, New York, U.S.—died June 10, 2002, Springfield, Missouri) American organized-crime boss whose flamboyant lifestyle and frequent public trials made him a prominent figure in New York City in the 1980s and '90s. Julia Grant http://www.history.com/topics/julia-grant Julia Grant was an American first lady and wife of American Civil War general and President Ulysses S. Grant. Judah P. Benjamin http://www.history.com/topics/judah-p-benjamin Judah P. Benjamin was a prominent American lawyer and politician who held three different positions in the Confederate cabinet during the American Civil War. John C. Breckinridge http://www.history.com/topics/john-c-breckinridge Explore the life of John C. Breckinridge, a politician who served as the 14th vice president of the United States and as a Confederate general during the Civil War. John Cabot http://www.history.com/topics/john-cabot In 1497 and 1498, Italian navigator John Cabot sailed across the northern Atlantic under the English flag; his expeditions laid the basis for later British land claims in Canada. John C. Calhoun http://www.history.com/topics/john-c-calhoun (born March 18, 1782, Abbeville district, S.C., U.S.—died March 31, 1850, Washington, D.C.) American political leader who was a congressman, secretary of war, seventh vice president (1825–32), senator, and secretary of state. Jimmy Carter http://www.history.com/topics/jimmy-carter Jimmy Carter served one term as the 39th U.S. president and earned respect for his humanitarian work during his post-presidential career. Jacques Cartier http://www.history.com/topics/jacques-cartier Jacques Cartier's expeditions along the Canadian coast and St. Lawrence River in the 1530s and 1540s laid the groundwork for later French land claims in North America. Jane Pierce http://www.history.com/topics/jane-pierce Jane Pierce was an American first lady, the wife of Franklin Pierce, 14th president of the United States. Julia Tyler http://www.history.com/topics/julia-tyler Julia Tyler was an American first lady and the second wife of John Tyler, 10th president of the United States. Jefferson Davis http://www.history.com/topics/jefferson-davis Explore the life of Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederate States of America throughout its existence during the American Civil War (1861–65). John Dillinger http://www.history.com/topics/john-dillinger (born June 28, 1902, or June 22, 1903, Indianapolis, Ind., U.S.—died July 22, 1934, Chicago) most famous of all U.S. bank robbers, whose short career of robberies and escapes from June 1933 to July 1934 won media headlines. James H. Doolittle http://www.history.com/topics/james-h-doolittle Find out more about Jimmy Doolittle, a U.S. pilot, aeronautical engineer, combat leader and military strategist. John Foster Dulles http://www.history.com/topics/john-foster-dulles (born Feb. 25, 1888, Washington, D.C.—died May 24, 1959, Washington, D.C.) U.S. secretary of state (1953–59) under President Dwight D. Jubal Early http://www.history.com/topics/jubal-a-early Get the facts on Jubal Early, a U.S. military officer, lawyer and writer who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. John Hancock http://www.history.com/topics/john-hancock American Revolution leader John Hancock (1737-1793) was a signer of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and a governor of Massachusetts. John B. Hood http://www.history.com/topics/john-b-hood Get the facts on John Bell Hood, a U.S. military officer who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. Joseph Hooker http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-hooker Explore the life of Joseph Hooker, a Civil War general who commanded the Union Army of the Potomac. Jesse Jackson http://www.history.com/topics/jesse-jackson Find out more about civil rights leader and two-time Democratic presidential candidate Jesse Jackson. Joseph E. Johnston http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-e-johnston July Plot http://www.history.com/topics/july-plot Explore the history of the July Plot. Dig deeper into the German military leaders' mutiny against the Führer and learn about the leaders of the plot. John Locke http://www.history.com/topics/john-locke Get the facts on English philosopher and political theorist John Locke, who laid much of the groundwork for the Enlightenment and contributed to the development of liberalism. James Longstreet http://www.history.com/topics/james-longstreet Explore the life of James Longstreet (1821-1904). Longstreet was a Confederate general during the American Civil War (1861-1865) and saw action at the Battles of Fredericksburg, Gettysburg and Chickamauga. He is considered one of the Confederacy’s best officers. John Marshall http://www.history.com/topics/john-marshall (born Sept. 24, 1755, near Germantown [now Midland], Va.—died July 6, 1835, Philadelphia, Pa.) fourth chief justice of the United States and principal founder of the U. John McCain http://www.history.com/topics/john-mccain A long-serving U.S. senator, John McCain was the 2008 Republican nominee for president. J.P. Morgan http://www.history.com/topics/john-pierpont-morgan J.P. Morgan (1837-1913) was a powerful American banker who financed railroads and helped organize U.S. Steel and other major corporations. Janet Napolitano http://www.history.com/topics/janet-napolitano (born Nov. 29, 1957, New York, N.Y., U.S.) American lawyer and politician who served as attorney general (1999–2003) and governor (2003–09) of Arizona and as secretary of the U. Jawaharlal Nehru http://www.history.com/topics/jawaharlal-nehru Jawaharlal Nehru was an instrumental leader in the struggle for India’s independence and the nation’s first prime minister from 1947 until his death in 1964. Juan Ponce de León http://www.history.com/topics/juan-ponce-de-leon Spanish soldier and explorer Juan Ponce de León founded the first settlement in Puerto Rico and discovered Florida during his search for the mythical fountain of youth. Janet Reno http://www.history.com/topics/janet-reno (born July 21, 1938, Miami, Fla., U.S.) American lawyer and public official who became the first woman attorney general (1993–2001) of the United States. Jeb Stuart http://www.history.com/topics/jeb-stuart Find out more about Jeb Stuart, a Confederate cavalry officer whose reports of enemy troop movements were of particular value to the Southern command during the American Civil War. July 4th http://www.history.com/topics/july-4th Explore the history behind July 4th, also known as Independence Day or the Fourth of July. Get the facts on how America's birthday is celebrated. Joe Biden http://www.history.com/topics/joe-biden Explore the life and career of Joe Biden, who became vice president of the United States after spending 36 years as a U.S. senator from Delaware. John Birch Society http://www.history.com/topics/john-birch-society private organization founded in the United States on Dec. 9, 1958, by Robert H.W. Welch, Jr. (1899–1985), a retired Boston candy manufacturer, for the purpose of combating communism and promoting various ultraconservative causes. John Rolfe http://www.history.com/topics/john-rolfe John Rolfe developed the Virginia colony's first profitable export and married Pocahontas, the daughter of a Native American chieftain. John Adams http://www.history.com/topics/john-adams John Adams (1735-1826) was a leader of the American Revolution and served as the second president of the United States from 1797 to 1801. John Quincy Adams http://www.history.com/topics/john-quincy-adams John Quincy Adams of Massachusetts was an accomplished diplomat who served as the sixth president of the United States from 1825 to 1829. His father was the famous patriot and second U.S. President John Adams. James Buchanan http://www.history.com/topics/james-buchanan James Buchanan (1791-1868), the 15th U.S. president, served from 1857 to 1861, when seven Southern states seceded from the Union and America was on the brink of civil war. James A. Garfield http://www.history.com/topics/james-a-garfield James Garfield (1831-81) began his term as America's 20th president in March 1881 but died in September of that same year after being shot by a disgruntled constituent. Japanese-American Relocation http://www.history.com/topics/japanese-american-relocation The relocation of Japanese-Americans into internment camps during World War II was one of the most flagrant violations of civil liberties in American history. John F. Kennedy http://www.history.com/topics/john-f-kennedy John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States, served just over 1,000 days in office before he was assassinated in November 1963. James Madison http://www.history.com/topics/james-madison America's fourth president, James Madison (1751-1836), served in office from 1809 to 1817. Prior to his two terms in the White House, he composed the first drafts of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. James Monroe http://www.history.com/topics/james-monroe James Monroe (1758-1831) served as America's fifth president from 1817 to 1825, during which time he oversaw major westward expansion of the U.S. and strengthened the nation's foreign policy with the Monroe Doctrine. James K. Polk http://www.history.com/topics/james-polk The 11th U.S. president, James Polk (1795-1849) served from 1845 to 1849. During his administration, the country acquired California and much of the Southwest, extending from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean for the first time in its history. Jackie Robinson http://www.history.com/topics/jackie-robinson (1919-1972), professional baseball player with the Brooklyn Dodgers (1947-1956); first African-American to play in major league baseball in the twentieth century. John Tyler http://www.history.com/topics/john-tyler John Tyler (1790-1862) served as America's 10th president from 1841 to 1845. He assumed office after the death of President William Henry Harrison (1773-1841), who passed away a month after his inauguration. Julius Caesar http://www.history.com/topics/julius-caesar A Roman statesman and general, Julius Caesar is considered one of the great military leaders of history. Jalisco http://www.history.com/topics/jalisco Many well known Mexican icons including sombreros, rodeos, the Mexican Hat Dance and mariachi music originated in culture rich Jalisco. It’s also the birthplace of tequila. Joe Louis http://www.history.com/topics/joe-louis An American boxer and heavyweight champion, Joe Louis' defeat of German Max Schmeling made him a national hero. Joseph Plumb Martin http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-plumb-martin A young private serving in the Continental Army, "Plumb" Martin wrote a vivid account of his experiences during the Revolutionary War. Jamestown Colony http://www.history.com/topics/jamestown Jamestown, located near present-day Williamsburg, Virginia, was the first permanent English settlement in North America. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis http://www.history.com/topics/jacqueline-kennedy-onassis Jackie Kennedy Onassis, the wife of John F. Kennedy, was an iconic first lady. Joseph Goebbels http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-goebbels Between 1933 and 1945, Joseph Goebbels served as propaganda minister to Adolf Hitler, chancellor of Germany. Goebbels' duties included restricting the German media, orchestrating Hitler's public appearances and stirring up anti-Semitism. John D. Rockefeller http://www.history.com/topics/john-d-rockefeller John D. Rockefeller (1839-1937), founder of the Standard Oil Company, became one of the world’s wealthiest men and a major philanthropist. Jane Addams http://www.history.com/topics/jane-addams A Chicago settlement house founder and peace activist, Jane rejected marriage and motherhood in favor of a lifetime commitment to the poor and social reform. Jacksonian Democracy http://www.history.com/topics/jacksonian-democracy Jacksonian Democracy refers to the rise of Andrew Jackson and the Democratic party, and the range of reforms that accompanied it, from expanding suffrage to restructuring federal institutions. J. Edgar Hoover http://www.history.com/topics/j-edgar-hoover J. Edgar Hoover was direct of the Federal Bureau of Investigations from 1924 until his death in 1972. Jonestown http://www.history.com/topics/jonestown On November 18, 1978, in what became known as the “Jonestown Massacre,” more than 900 members of an American cult died in a mass suicide-murder under the direction of their leader Jim Jones at the Jonestown settlement in Guyana. Jack the Ripper http://www.history.com/topics/jack-the-ripper Jack the Ripper's 1888 murder of at least five women, all prostitutes, in or near the Whitechapel district of London’s East End remains one of the greatest unsolved crimes in English history. Joseph Kennedy Jr http://www.history.com/topics/joseph-kennedy-jr Find out more about Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., the older brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was killed at 29 while serving in the Navy during World War II. Jack Ruby http://www.history.com/topics/jack-ruby Find out more about the life and death of Jack Ruby, the man who killed JFK’s assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. Kaiser Wilhelm II http://www.history.com/topics/kaiser-wilhelm-ii Wilhelm II, the German kaiser and king of Prussia from 1888 to 1918, belonged to the last generation of European monarchs to wield significant political power. Although he was not the crude warmonger he was sometimes depicted to be, his personality and policies helped to ignite World War I. Kamehameha IV http://www.history.com/topics/kamehameha-iv King Kamehameha IV, who ruled Hawaii from 1855 to 1863, opposed the movement for U.S. annexation of Hawaii. Kansas http://www.history.com/topics/kansas The 34th U.S. state, Kansas was once seen as the country's agricultural heartland. Kansas-Nebraska Act http://www.history.com/topics/kansas-nebraska-act This 1854 bill organizing the western territories led to violent conflict and heightened tensions in the years before the Civil War. Karl Marx http://www.history.com/topics/karl-marx German philosopher Karl Marx's revolutionary political and economic theories laid the groundwork for socialist and communist movements all over the world. 2005 Kashmir earthquake http://www.history.com/topics/kashmir-earthquake On October 8, 2005, a massive 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Kashmir border region between India and Pakistan. Kemal Atatürk http://www.history.com/topics/kemal-ataturk Get the facts on Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, an army officer who founded an independent Republic of Turkey out of the ruins of the Ottoman Empire. The Kennedy-Nixon Debates http://www.history.com/topics/kennedy-nixon-debates In 1960, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon squared off in the first televised presidential debates in American history. Kenneth Arnold http://www.history.com/topics/kenneth-arnold In June 1947, civilian pilot and businessman Kenneth Arnold made the first well-known sighting of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the skies over Washington State. Kent State Incident http://www.history.com/topics/kent-state On May 4, 1970, four Kent State University students were killed by National Guard units dispatched to quell anti-Vietnam War protests. Kentucky http://www.history.com/topics/kentucky Kentucky was admitted as the 15th state of the union and was the first west of the Appalachian Mountains. Key Part of Gettysburg Battlefield Preserved http://www.history.com/topics/key-part-of-gettysburg-battlefield-preserved The National Park Service has acquired a former golf course where a series of bloody clashes took place on the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Kim Jong Il http://www.history.com/topics/kim-jong-il (born Feb. 16, 1941, Siberia, Russia, U.S.S.R.) North Korean politician, son of the former North Korean premier and (communist) Korean Workers' Party (KWP) chairman Kim Il-sung, and successor to his father as ruler of North Korea. King Philip's War http://www.history.com/topics/king-philips-war (1675–76), in British-American colonial history, war between Native Americans and English settlers, the bloodiest conflict in 17th-century New England, temporarily devastating the frontier communities but eventually eradicating native military resistance to the European colonization of that King Cake Recipe http://www.history.com/topics/kings-cake-recipe Follow this recipe to make a King Cake, a traditional Mardi Gras dessert. Prince Klemens Wenzel von Metternich http://www.history.com/topics/klemens-prince-von-metternich Prince Klemens Wenzel von Metternich was an Austrian political leader who helped form an alliance of European powers against Napolean I during the early 19th century. Knights of Labor http://www.history.com/topics/knights-of-labor The Knights of Labor began as a secret society of tailors in Philadelphia in 1869. Know-Nothing party http://www.history.com/topics/know-nothing-party U.S. political party that flourished in the 1850s. The Know-Nothing party was an outgrowth of the strong anti-immigrant and especially anti-Roman Catholic sentiment that started to manifest itself during the 1840s. Korean War http://www.history.com/topics/korean-war Get the facts on the Korean War between North Korea and U.S.-backed South Korea, which lasted from 1950 to 1953 and was the first Cold War military action. Kristallnacht http://www.history.com/topics/kristallnacht On November 9 to November 10, 1938, in an incident known as "Kristallnacht,"? Nazis in Germany torched synagogues, vandalized Jewish homes, schools and businesses, and murdered nearly 100 Jews. Ku Klux Klan http://www.history.com/topics/ku-klux-klan Confederate veterans in the post-Civil War South founded the white supremacist organization known as the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) during the Reconstruction era. Kublai Khan http://www.history.com/topics/kublai-khan (born 1215—died 1294) Mongolian general and statesman, grandson of Genghis Khan. He conquered China and became the first emperor of its Yüan, or Mongol, dynasty. Kwanzaa http://www.history.com/topics/kwanzaa-history Explore the history of Kwanzaa, a holiday created in 1966 to bring African-American communities together that includes aspects of various harvest celebrations. Labor Movement http://www.history.com/topics/labor Investigate the origins and history of the labor movement in the United States. Find out how labor unions fought for better wages and working conditions. Labor Day http://www.history.com/topics/labor-day Find out more about the history of Labor Day, a holiday that pays tribute to the American workers. Explore its development and how it is celebrated. Lady Bird Johnson http://www.history.com/topics/lady-bird-johnson Lady Bird Johnson was an American first lady, the wife of Lyndon B. Johnson, and noted environmentalist. Las Vegas http://www.history.com/topics/las-vegas Explore the history of Las Vegas, Nevada, known as a gambling and entertainment destination. Laura Bush http://www.history.com/topics/laura-bush Laura Bush, the wife of George W. Bush, was a first lady of the United States. Leif Eriksson http://www.history.com/topics/leif-eriksson Discover the life of the Viking explorer who may have landed in America 500 years before Columbus. Lend-Lease Act http://www.history.com/topics/lend-lease-act The Lend-Lease Act of March 11, 1941, was the principal means for providing U.S. military aid to foreign nations during World War II. Leonardo da Vinci http://www.history.com/topics/leonardo-da-vinci Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian painter, sculptor, architect and inventor who is often described as the embodiment of the Renaissance man. Discover more about the life and art of Leonardo da Vinci. Leonidas http://www.history.com/topics/leonidas The Spartan king Leonidas died defending Greece from the Persians at the legendary Battle of Thermopylae. Letitia Tyler http://www.history.com/topics/letitia-tyler Letitia Tyler was an American first lady and the first wife of John Tyler, 10th president of the United States. Library of Congress Experience http://www.history.com/topics/library-of-congress Learn more about the Library of Congress Experience, including interactive exhibits which give a new glimpse into America's cultural treasures. This Week's Hidden Treasure http://www.history.com/topics/library-of-congress-treasures Examine some of the Library of Congress' most historically meaningful and culturally relevant artifacts from its treasured collections. Liliuokalani http://www.history.com/topics/liliuokalani The first and only queen of Hawaii and the last Hawaiian sovereign, Liliuokalani took the throne in 1891 and abdicated after a republican coup in 1895. Lincoln-Douglas Debates http://www.history.com/topics/lincoln-douglas-debates Historians have traditionally regarded the series of seven debates between Stephen A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln during the 1858 Illinois state election campaign as among the most significant statements in American political history. Long March http://www.history.com/topics/long-march On October 16, 1934, the embattled Chinese Communists broke through Nationalist enemy lines and began an epic flight from their encircled headquarters in southwest China. Los Angeles Aqueduct http://www.history.com/topics/los-angeles-aqueduct In the early 20th century, engineer William Mulholland designed and oversaw the construction of an aqueduct that channeled water from the Owens Valley region of California to the growing city of Los Angeles. Lou Hoover http://www.history.com/topics/lou-hoover Lou Hoover was an American first lady, the wife of Herbert Hoover, 31st president of the United States. Louis XIV http://www.history.com/topics/louis-xiv Find out about the reign of French ruler Louis XIV, who presided over his royal court at Versailles as an absolute monarch and was known as the Sun King. Louis XVI http://www.history.com/topics/louis-xvi Louis XVI was the last king of France before the French Revolution of 1789 toppled the monarchy. Louisa Adams http://www.history.com/topics/louisa-adams An American first lady, Louisa Adams was the wife of John Quincy Adams, sixth president of the United States. Louisiana http://www.history.com/topics/louisiana Check out the history of Louisiana, a state that became U.S. territory as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Find out about Louisiana's culture, people and more. Louisiana Purchase http://www.history.com/topics/louisiana-purchase The territory acquired from France in the 1803 Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States. Charles "Lucky" Luciano http://www.history.com/topics/lucky-luciano Get the facts on Charles "Lucky" Luciano, the Sicilian-born gangster who helped the American Mafia take shape. Lucretia Garfield http://www.history.com/topics/lucretia-garfield Lucretia Garfield was an American first lady and wife of James A. Garfield. Lucretia Mott http://www.history.com/topics/lucretia-mott (born Jan. 3, 1793, Nantucket, Mass., U.S.—died Nov. 11, 1880, near Abington, Pa.) pioneer reformer who, with Elizabeth Cady Stanton, founded the organized women's rights movement in the United States. Lucy Hayes http://www.history.com/topics/lucy-hayes An American first lady, Lucy Hayes was the first presidential wife to graduate from college. Ludendorff Offensive http://www.history.com/topics/ludendorff-offensive Quartermaster General Erich Ludendorff scheduled the beginning of Germany's great 1918 gamble for victory on the Western Front in World War I for the first day of spring, March 21. Lusitania http://www.history.com/topics/lusitania The sinking of this British ocean liner by a German submarine contributed to American's entry into World War I. Lyndon B. Johnson http://www.history.com/topics/lyndon-b-johnson The 36th U.S. president, Lyndon B. Johnson took office in 1963 and is remembered for his social reform measures. America's Wars: The 19th Century http://www.history.com/topics/memorial-day-timeline-of-americas-wars-19th-century Timeline of America's Wars, 19th Century America's Wars: The 20th and 21st Centuries http://www.history.com/topics/memorial-day-timeline-of-americas-wars-20th-century Timeline of America's Wars, specifically the 20th and 21st Centuries. Memorial Day http://www.history.com/topics/memorial-day-history Get the facts on Memorial Day, from its early history to today’s traditions. Mayflower Myths http://www.history.com/topics/mayflower-myths The story of the first Thanksgiving isn't the whole story of Thanksgiving. Uncover the facts behind some popular myths. Mayflower Compact http://www.history.com/topics/mayflower-compact The Mayflower Compact was the first written framework of government established in what is now the United States. Myrlie Evers-Williams http://www.history.com/topics/myrlie-evers-williams (born March 17, 1933, Vicksburg, Mississippi, U.S.) African American activist and the wife of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, whose racially motivated murder in 1963 made him a national icon. Marbury v. Madison http://www.history.com/topics/marbury-v-madison (Feb. 24, 1803), landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision, the first instance in which the high court declared an act of Congress unconstitutional, thus establishing the doctrine of judicial review. The Medici Family http://www.history.com/topics/medici-family Get the full story of the Medici family, who dominated politics, economics and culture in Florence from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Mexico http://www.history.com/topics/mexico Discover Mexico's rich history. See how this country's traditions and culture have changed from 1200 B.C. to today. Get these facts and more on History.com. Michelle Obama http://www.history.com/topics/michelle-obama The wife of Barack Obama, Michelle Obama is the first African American first lady. Manfred, baron von Richthofen http://www.history.com/topics/manfred-baron-von-richthofen (born May 2, 1892, Breslau, Ger. [now Wroclaw, Pol.]—died April 21, 1918, Vaux-sur-Somme, Fr.) Germany's top aviator and leading ace in World War I. Margaret Taylor http://www.history.com/topics/margaret-taylor Margaret Taylor was an American first lady and wife of Zachary Taylor, the 12th president of the United States. Medgar Evers http://www.history.com/topics/medgar-evers Explore the life of Medgar Evers, an American black civil-rights activist, whose murder received national attention and made him a martyr to the cause of the civil rights movement. Marcus Garvey http://www.history.com/topics/marcus-garvey (born Aug. 17, 1887, St. Ann's Bay, Jamaica—died June 10, 1940, London, Eng.) charismatic black leader who organized the first important American black nationalist movement (1919–26), based in New York City's Harlem. Martin Luther King Jr. http://www.history.com/topics/martin-luther-king-jr Explore the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., who led the American civil rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. Meriwether Lewis http://www.history.com/topics/meriwether-lewis With William Clark, Meriwether Lewis led an expedition through the uncharted American interior to the Pacific Northwest from 1804 to 1806. Maine http://www.history.com/topics/maine The 23rd U.S. state, Maine epitomizes the difficult choices between environmental preservation and economic expansion. Mao Zedong http://www.history.com/topics/mao-zedong Mao Zedong is considered one of the most significant communist figures of the Cold War. Marcus Aurelius http://www.history.com/topics/marcus-aurelius (born April 26, AD 121, Rome—died March 17, 180, Vindobona [Vienna], or Sirmium, Pannonia) Roman emperor (AD 161–180), best known for his Meditations on Stoic philosophy. Marie-Antoinette http://www.history.com/topics/marie-antoinette Get the full story of Marie Antoinette, the 18th-century French queen who was executed by guillotine. Mary I http://www.history.com/topics/mary-i Explore the life of Queen Mary I of England, known as “Bloody Mary” for her treatment of Protestants. Maryland http://www.history.com/topics/maryland One of the 13 original colonies, Maryland is a small state with a wide diversity of landscapes. Massachusetts http://www.history.com/topics/massachusetts Discover the history of Massachusetts, one of the original 13 U.S. states. Explore Massachusetts's geography, population, economy and more on History.com. McCulloch v. Maryland http://www.history.com/topics/mcculloch-v-maryland U.S. Supreme Court case decided in 1819, in which Chief Justice John Marshall affirmed the constitutional doctrine of Congress' “implied powers. Tokugawa Period and Meiji Restoration http://www.history.com/topics/meiji-restoration After 250 years of strict order, peace and prosperity during the Tokugawa period (1603-1867), the Meiji Restoration of 1868 would catapult Japan towards the modern era. Mexican Revolution http://www.history.com/topics/mexican-revolution The Mexican Revolution, which began in 1910, ended dictatorship in Mexico and established a constitutional republic. Mexican-American War http://www.history.com/topics/mexican-american-war The United States' victory in the Mexican-American War led to the acquisition of more than 500,000 square miles of Mexican territory extending westward from the Rio Grande to the Pacific Ocean. Mexico City earthquake of 1985 http://www.history.com/topics/mexico-city-earthquake-of-1985 On September 19, 1985, a powerful earthquake struck Mexico City and left 10,000 people dead, 30,000 injured and thousands more homeless. Michigan http://www.history.com/topics/michigan Since joining the union in 1837, Michigan has become a mainspring in the economic life of the United States. Minnesota http://www.history.com/topics/minnesota Discover the history of Minnesota, which became the 32nd state of the union in 1858. Find out about Minnesota's geography, industry, population and more. Miranda v. Arizona http://www.history.com/topics/miranda-v-arizona 384 U.S. 436 (1966), U.S. Supreme Court case which resulted in a ruling that specified a code of conduct for police interrogations of criminal suspects held in custody. Mississippi http://www.history.com/topics/mississippi Explore the history of Mississippi, which joined the union as the 20th state in 1817. Find out about Mississippi's geography, economy, culture and more. Mississippi River flood of 1927 http://www.history.com/topics/mississippi-river-flood-of-1927 In April of 1927, a large levee system in Mississippi collapsed, submerging over 23,000 miles of the Mississippi River valley beneath the waters of the Mississippi River. Missouri http://www.history.com/topics/missouri The 24th U.S. state, Missouri represents the political and social sentiments of a border region. Monroe Doctrine http://www.history.com/topics/monroe-doctrine (December 2, 1823), cornerstone of U.S foreign policy enunciated by President James Monroe in his annual message to Congress. Declaring that the Old World and New World had different systems and must remain distinct spheres, Monroe made four basic points: (1) The United States would not interfere in Montana http://www.history.com/topics/montana Montana is one of the largest U.S. states in area and among those with the lowest population density. My Lai Massacre http://www.history.com/topics/my-lai-massacre Find out what happened at the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War. Mary Surratt http://www.history.com/topics/mary-surratt (born May/June 1823, near Waterloo, Maryland, U.S.—died July 7, 1865, Washington, D.C.) American boardinghouse operator, who, with three others, was convicted of conspiracy to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln. Margaret Thatcher http://www.history.com/topics/margaret-thatcher Find out about the life, politics and legacy of former British prime minster Margaret Thatcher. Martin Luther and the 95 Theses http://www.history.com/topics/martin-luther-and-the-95-theses Martin Luther sparked the Protestant Reformation when in 1517 he wrote his 95 Theses, which criticized central aspects of the Catholic Church's teachings. The Rise and Fall of the Maya Empire http://www.history.com/topics/maya The Maya Empire, located in what is now Guatemala, reached its peak around the sixth century A.D. Magna Carta http://www.history.com/topics/magna-carta The Magna Carta, a charter of liberties granted by King John in 1215, served as the foundation of the English legal system and an inspiration during the American Revolution. Mamie Eisenhower http://www.history.com/topics/mamie-eisenhower Mamie Eisenhower was an American first lady and wife of Dwight Eisenhower, 34th president of the United States. Marcus Tullius Cicero http://www.history.com/topics/marcus-tullius-cicero Explore the life of the philosopher and orator Cicero, a leading figure of the late Roman Republic. Mark Antony http://www.history.com/topics/mark-antony Mark Antony was a Roman general known for his great and tragic love affair with Cleopatra. Marshall Plan http://www.history.com/topics/marshall-plan (April 1948–December 1951), U.S.-sponsored program designed to rehabilitate the economies of 17 western and southern European countries in order to create stable conditions in which democratic institutions could survive. Martha Jefferson http://www.history.com/topics/martha-jefferson Thomas Jefferson's wife, Martha Wayles Jefferson, was born in 1748 and died at Monticello in 1782, 19 years before her husband became the third president of the United States. Martha Washington http://www.history.com/topics/martha-washington Discover the life of Martha Washington, wife of George Washington and America's original first lady. Mary Todd Lincoln http://www.history.com/topics/mary-todd-lincoln American first lady, Mary Todd Lincoln was the wife of Abraham Lincoln, 16th president of the United States. Mathew Brady http://www.history.com/topics/mathew-brady Mathew Brady was a well-known 19th-century American photographer celebrated for his photographs of the American Civil War. Mount Rushmore http://www.history.com/topics/mount-rushmore Get the history behind South Dakota's Mount Rushmore, which features the carved faces of four of America’s greatest presidents. Muhammad Ali http://www.history.com/topics/muhammad-ali Get the facts on Muhammad Ali, an American former heavyweight champion boxer and one of the greatest sporting figures of the 20th century. Millard Fillmore http://www.history.com/topics/millard-fillmore Millard Fillmore became the nation's 13th president (1850-1853) after Zachary Taylor's death in office; his unpopular enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Act helped encourage the demise of the Whig Party. Malcolm X http://www.history.com/topics/malcolm-x Malcolm X, the outspoken public voice of the Black Muslim faith, challenged the mainstream civil rights movement and the nonviolent pursuit of integration championed by Martin Luther King Jr. March on Washington http://www.history.com/topics/march-on-washington The 1963 political rally known as the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom was a key moment in the struggle for civil rights. Missouri Compromise http://www.history.com/topics/missouri-compromise In 1820, pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions in the U.S. Congress struck a deal known as the Missouri Compromise. Martin Van Buren http://www.history.com/topics/martin-van-buren Martin Van Buren of New York helped found the modern Democratic Party and became the eighth president of the United States, serving from 1837 to 1841. He was the first president to be born a citizen of the United States and not a British subject. Madame C. J. Walker http://www.history.com/topics/madame-c-j-walker (1867-1919), entrepreneur. Maginot Line http://www.history.com/topics/maginot-line The Maginot line was named after Andre Maginot (1877-1932), a politician who served in World War I until wounded in November 1914. Mafia in the United States http://www.history.com/topics/mafia-in-the-united-states The American Mafia rose to power in the first part of the 20th century and has since been involved in a range of illegal activities. State of México http://www.history.com/topics/mexico-state Although formally distinct, the Federal District and Greater Mexico City constitute one of the most populated cities in the world. Mexico State has two ancient Aztec sites—the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon—as well as the state's famous twin volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Michoacán http://www.history.com/topics/michoacan Michoacán plays host to thousands of North America’s monarch butterflies every winter. Residents and tourists alike also enjoy Michoacán’s festive Day of the Dead celebration and visits to the Paricutin volcano, which became active until 1943. Morelos http://www.history.com/topics/morelos Morelos is the birthplace of revolutionary hero Emiliano Zapata, and has long been home to Nahua Indians, who still engage in subsistence farming throughout the state. The state's largest city Cuernavaca is nicknamed the "City of Eternal Spring" because its climate is so consistent. Memorable Elections http://www.history.com/topics/memorable-elections From the disputed Hayes victory in 1876 to Bush v. Gore in 2000, the U.S. has had its share of close presidential elections. Mardi Gras http://www.history.com/topics/mardi-gras Discover the history of Mardi Gras in New Orleans and explore where it is celebrated around the globe. Find out how different cultures celebrate this holiday. Mexico Timeline http://www.history.com/topics/mexico-timeline Explore Mexican history from ancient Mesoamerican civilizations Mesoamerica to the present. The Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. http://www.history.com/topics/martin-luther-king-assassination The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr., a leading civil rights activist and winner of the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize, was shot and killed on April 4, 1968, while standing on the balcony of a motel in Memphis, Tennessee. Montgomery Bus Boycott http://www.history.com/topics/montgomery-bus-boycott The year-long Montgomery Bus Boycott began on December 5, 1955, when approximately 40,000 African Americans refused to ride the city buses in Montgomery, Alabama, to protest segregated seating. The boycott is regarded as the first large-scale demonstration challenging segregation in the U.S. The Mayflower http://www.history.com/topics/mayflower Get the facts about the Mayflower, which in 1620 set sail from England carrying the Pilgrims, who created the first lasting European settlement in New England. Manifest Destiny http://www.history.com/topics/manifest-destiny Manifest Destiny was the idea that America was destined to stretch from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans. Mark Twain http://www.history.com/topics/mark-twain Mark Twain, was an American author and satirist. One of his most famous and enduring works is the novel Huckleberry Finn. Minié Ball http://www.history.com/topics/minie-ball The minié ball, a new type of bullet developed for use in the rifle-musket, helped transform warfare after the mid-19th century, especially in the American Civil War. Mother's Day http://www.history.com/topics/mothers-day Explore the history and traditions of Mother’s Day, a holiday celebrated in the United States and in various parts of the world. Middle Ages http://www.history.com/topics/middle-ages The "Middle Ages" is the term commonly used to describe what scholars call Europe’s medieval period, the time between the fall of Rome and the Renaissance. Model T http://www.history.com/topics/model-t The Model T is one of the best selling cars in history, and was the first car that was affordable for the majority of Americans. Margaret Mead http://www.history.com/topics/margaret-mead Margaret Mead was a leading anthropologist of both primitive and modern cultures. Mayan Scientific Achievements http://www.history.com/topics/mayan-scientific-achievements Between about 300 and 900 A.D., the Maya of Central America were responsible for a number of remarkable scientific achievements. Mohandas Gandhi http://www.history.com/topics/mahatma-gandhi Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a Hindu leader of India's movement for independence, is remembered for his nonviolent methods of effecting social and political change. Monticello http://www.history.com/topics/monticello The former home of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello is considered a national treasure not only for its beauty but also for what it reveals about the third U.S. president. The Struggle for Mexican Independence http://www.history.com/topics/mexican-independence The decade-long struggle for Mexican independence from Spain began on September 16, 1810, a day that is now celebrated as the country's birthday. Michelangelo http://www.history.com/topics/michelangelo Michelangelo (1475-1564) was an Italian Renaissance sculptor, painter, architect, and poet who exerted an unparalleled influence on the development of Western art. Mary Chestnut http://www.history.com/topics/mary-chestnut Explore the life of Confederate diarist Mary Boykin Miller Chestnut Machu Picchu http://www.history.com/topics/machu-picchu Get the history of and facts on Machu Picchu, one of the most visited sites in South America and an extraordinary example of the Inca Empire's sophistication. Marco Polo http://www.history.com/topics/marco-polo Get the facts on Marco Polo, the famous Venetian merchant believed to have journeyed across Asia at the height of the Mongol Empire. Nancy Reagan http://www.history.com/topics/nancy-reagan Explore the life of Nancy Reagan, wife of President Ronald Reagan and American first lady last from 1981 to 1989. Nanjing Massacre http://www.history.com/topics/nanjing-massacre In late 1937, over a period of six weeks, Imperial Japanese Army forces brutally murdered hundreds of thousands of people--including both soldiers and civilians--in the Chinese city of Nanking (or Nanjing). Napoleon Bonaparte http://www.history.com/topics/napoleon Explore the history of Napoleon Bonaparte, a French military leader and emperor who conquered much of Europe in the early 1800s. Nat Turner http://www.history.com/topics/nat-turner Nathanial "Nat" Turner was a black American bondsman who led the only effective, sustained slave rebellion (August 1831) in U.S. history. Nathan Bedford Forrest http://www.history.com/topics/nathan-bedford-forrest Get the facts on Nathan Bedford Forrest, a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Nathan Hale http://www.history.com/topics/nathan-hale Captain Nathan Hale of the 19th Regiment of the Continental Army was one of the first known American spies of the Revolutionary War. National Association for the Advancement of Colored People http://www.history.com/topics/national-association-for-the-advancement-of-colored-people The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded in 1909-1910 in New York City by a group of white and black intellectuals. National Labor Relations Act http://www.history.com/topics/national-labor-relations-act The National Labor Relations Act of 1935 is informally known as the Wagner Act, for its sponsor, Senator Robert Wagner of New York. National Labor Relations Board http://www.history.com/topics/national-labor-relations-board The National Labor Relations Board (nlrb) is a five-person federal agency charged with regulating the process of collective bargaining between American employers and their workers. Native American Cultures http://www.history.com/topics/native-american-cultures Long before Columbus, another group of people discovered America: the nomadic ancestors of modern Native Americans. Nayarit http://www.history.com/topics/nayarit Nayarit’s farmers benefit from its location in a fertile valley, and with 181 miles of coastline, the state is a top tourist destination. Nazi Party http://www.history.com/topics/nazi-party In 1921, Adolf Hitler (1889-1945) became the leader of the National Socialist German Workers' Party, a fledgling political organization also known as the Nazi Party. Under Hitler, the Nazi Party grew into a mass movement and ruled Germany through totalitarian means from 1933 to 1945. Nebraska http://www.history.com/topics/nebraska Admitted to the union in 1867, Nebraska has been a major food producer since attaining statehood. Nefertiti http://www.history.com/topics/nefertiti Queen Nefertiti (ca. 1370 BC- ca. 1330 BC) was the wife of Akhenaten, one of the most controversial rulers of the 18th dynasty of Ancient Egypt. Neil Armstrong http://www.history.com/topics/neil-armstrong Find out more about Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon. Nelson Mandela http://www.history.com/topics/nelson-mandela Explore the life of South African activist and former president Nelson Mandela, who helped end apartheid and has advocated for human rights around the world. Nero http://www.history.com/topics/nero Get the full story of Nero, one of Rome’s most infamous emperors, who ruled from 54 to 68 A.D. Nevada http://www.history.com/topics/nevada The 36th U.S. state, Nevada is one of the fastest-growing states in the country. New Deal http://www.history.com/topics/new-deal In the mid-1930s, Franklin D. Roosevelt launched a series of economic programs designed to combat the effects of the Great Depression. New Hampshire http://www.history.com/topics/new-hampshire One of the 13 original U.S. states, New Hampshire is located in New England at the extreme northeastern corner of the country. New Jersey http://www.history.com/topics/new-jersey Discover the history of New Jersey, one of the original 13 U.S. states. Find out about New Jersey's geography, economy, industry and more on History.com New Mexico http://www.history.com/topics/new-mexico Check out the history of New Mexico, which became the 47th state of the union in 1912. Find out about New Mexico's geography, population, economy and more. New Orleans http://www.history.com/topics/new-orleans Find out more about the history of New Orleans, which has been the chief city of Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico's busiest northern port since the early 1700s. New Year's http://www.history.com/topics/new-years Explore the history of New Year's, from its ancient past to how January 1 became the first of the year to famous celebrations like the Times Square ball drop. New York http://www.history.com/topics/new-york New York is a land of many contrasts, featuring the largest American metropolis as well as rural areas and nature preserves. New York City http://www.history.com/topics/new-york-city Explore the history of New York City, which was founded by the Dutch as a trading post in 1625. Niagara Falls http://www.history.com/topics/niagara-falls This western New York city on the U.S.- Canadian border provides much of the state's hydroelectric power, and has become a tourist mecca for millions of Americans. Niagara Falls http://www.history.com/topics/niagara-falls Niagara Falls produces much of the state's hydroelectric power, and has become a tourist destination for millions of Americans. Niagara Movement http://www.history.com/topics/niagara-movement (1905–10), organization of black intellectuals led by W.E.B. Du Bois and calling for full political, civil, and social rights for black Americans. Nicolaus Copernicus http://www.history.com/topics/nicolaus-copernicus (born Feb. 19, 1473, Torun, Pol.—died May 24, 1543, Frauenburg, East Prussia [now Frombork, Pol.]) Polish astronomer who proposed that the planets have the Sun as the fixed point to which their motions are to be referred; that the Earth is a planet which, besides orbiting the Sun annually, Nikita Khrushchev http://www.history.com/topics/nikita-sergeyevich-khrushchev Get the facts on Nikita Khrushchev, premier of the Soviet Union from 1958 to 1964 during the height of the Cold War. Nikola Tesla http://www.history.com/topics/nikola-tesla Get the facts on Serbian-American engineer and physicist Nikola Tesla, who made dozens of breakthroughs in the production, transmission and application of electric power. North Carolina http://www.history.com/topics/north-carolina One of the 13 original U.S. states, North Carolina is known for its natural beauty. North Dakota http://www.history.com/topics/north-dakota Explore North Dakota, one of the least populated states in America. Discover this Canadian border state's economic resistance and more on History.com. Northridge earthquake of 1994 http://www.history.com/topics/northridge-earthquake-of-1994 On January 17, 1994, an earthquake rocked Los Angeles, California, killing 54 people and causing billions of dollars in damages. Nostradamus http://www.history.com/topics/nostradamus This French astrologer and physician was the most widely read seer of the Renaissance. Nostradamus Timeline http://www.history.com/topics/nostradamus-life-history-timeline Michel de Nostredame, the French astrologer and physician, was born in 1503 and died in 1566 at age 62. Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty http://www.history.com/topics/nuclear-test-ban-treaty On August 5, 1963, representatives of the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain signed the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which prohibited the testing of nuclear weapons in outer space, underwater, or in the atmosphere. Nuevo León http://www.history.com/topics/nuevo-leon Nuevo León is situated on the border between Mexico and the United States and is famous for its adventure sports, including rock climbing and rappelling, but most of the state’s revenue comes from its brewery, ironwork, steelwork and smelting plants. Nuremberg Trials http://www.history.com/topics/nuremberg-trials The Nuremberg trials were a series of trials held in Nuremberg, Germany, between 1945 and 1949 for the purpose of bringing Nazi war criminals--military leaders as well as civilians--to justice. Oaxaca http://www.history.com/topics/oaxaca During his conquest of Mexico, Hernán Cortés declared himself the Marqués del Valle of Oaxaca, claiming province over the state’s rich mineral deposits. Today, Oaxaca has become a top tourist destination thanks to its miles of sandy beaches and fascinating archeological sites. Ohio http://www.history.com/topics/ohio Discover how Ohio's geographical location has spawned its growth. Explore the 17th U.S. state's history, population, economy and more on History.com. Oil Industry http://www.history.com/topics/oil-industry The discovery of oil in America helped fuel the Industrial Revolution. History's Worst Oil Spills http://www.history.com/topics/oil-spills Releasing massive amounts of oil into the environment, these disasters rank as the 10 most devastating oil spills in history. Oklahoma http://www.history.com/topics/oklahoma Once basically agricultural, Oklahoma is a state of many contrasts with an increasingly diversified economy. Oklahoma City bombing http://www.history.com/topics/oklahoma-city-bombing Timothy McVeigh truck-bombed the Alfred P. Murrah Building on April 19, 1995, killing 168 people. The Integration of Ole Miss http://www.history.com/topics/ole-miss-integration In September 1962, a crisis erupted after a Supreme Court decision forced the state-funded University of Mississippi (known as “Ole Miss”) to admit a black man, James Meredith. Oliver Cromwell http://www.history.com/topics/oliver-cromwell (born April 25, 1599, Huntingdon, Huntingdonshire, Eng.—died Sept. 3, 1658, London) English soldier and statesman who led parliamentary forces in the English Civil Wars; he was lord protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1653 to 1658 during the republican Commonwealth. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. http://www.history.com/topics/oliver-wendell-holmes-jr (born March 8, 1841, Boston—died March 6, 1935, Washington, D.C.) justice of the United States Supreme Court, U.S. legal historian and philosopher who advocated judicial restraint. The Olympic Games http://www.history.com/topics/olympic-games Get the full story of the Olympic Games, from the first games in ancient Greece to today’s worldwide sports competition. Omar N. Bradley http://www.history.com/topics/omar-bradley As an army group commander from August 1, 1944, to V-E Day in May 1945, Bradley commanded more troops than any general in American history. Operation Barbarossa http://www.history.com/topics/operation-barbarossa On June 22, 1941, Adolf Hitler launched his armies eastward in a massive invasion of the Soviet Union. Operation Rolling Thunder http://www.history.com/topics/operation-rolling-thunder During the Vietnam War (1954-75), as part of the strategic bombing campaign code-named Operation Rolling Thunder, U.S. military aircraft attacked targets throughout Communist North Vietnam from March 1965 to October 1968. Oregon http://www.history.com/topics/oregon Admitted as the 33rd state in 1859, Oregon is known for its forests and quality of life. Origins of the Mafia http://www.history.com/topics/origins-of-the-mafia The Mafia, a network of organized-crime groups based in Italy and the United States, evolved over centuries in Sicily. Origins of War http://www.history.com/topics/origins-of-war War seems eternal, apparently without a beginning and, by implication, without an end. Orville Wright http://www.history.com/topics/orville-wright Orville Wright and his elder brother, Wilbur, were the inventors of the world's first successful airplane. Osama bin Laden http://www.history.com/topics/osama-bin-laden Osama bin Laden has been the mastermind behind numerous terrorist attacks around the world, including the events of September 11, 2001. Otto von Bismarck http://www.history.com/topics/otto-von-bismarck Get the facts on Otto von Bismarck, who effectively ruled first Prussia and then all of Germany between 1862 and 1890. Abraham Lincoln's Funeral Train http://www.history.com/topics/president-lincolns-funeral-train The train carrying Lincoln's body traveled through 180 cities and seven states on its way to Lincoln's home state of Illinois. Pumpkin Facts http://www.history.com/topics/pumpkin-facts Pumpkins are indigenous to the western hemisphere and an iconic part of Halloween celebrations. Discover more facts about the pumpkin. Plessy v. Ferguson http://www.history.com/topics/plessy-v-ferguson In this case, the Supreme Court in 1896 upheld the constitutionality of social segregation of the "white and colored races" under the "separate but equal" doctrine. Prohibition http://www.history.com/topics/prohibition Find out more about the Prohibition era, when the manufacture and sale of alcohol was banned in the United States. Puritanism http://www.history.com/topics/puritanism Puritanism was a religious reform movement that arose within the Church of England in the late sixteenth century. Paul Revere http://www.history.com/topics/paul-revere Paul Revere was a Boston silversmith, industrialist, and American Revolutionary figure. Paul von Hindenburg http://www.history.com/topics/paul-von-hindenburg German General and President Punic Wars http://www.history.com/topics/punic-wars In the three Punic Wars, fought between 264 and 146 B.C., the Roman Empire overcame the rival city-state of Carthage to firmly establish its dominance in the western Mediterranean. Pocahontas http://www.history.com/topics/pocahontas Her friendship with John Smith and marriage to John Rolfe helped save the Jamestown colony. Pat Nixon http://www.history.com/topics/pat-nixon Pat Nixon was an American first lady, wife of Richard Nixon, who espoused the cause of volunteerism during her husband's term. The Pilgrims http://www.history.com/topics/pilgrims In late 1620, the Mayflower landed near Plymouth, Massachusetts; its passengers, known as the Pilgrims, would found the first permanent European settlement in New England. Patrick Henry http://www.history.com/topics/patrick-henry (born May 29 [May 18, Old Style], 1736, Studley [Va.]—died June 6, 1799, Red Hill, near Brookneal, Va., U.S.) brilliant orator and a major figure of the American Revolution, perhaps best known for his words “Give me liberty or give me death!” which he delivered in 1775. Passover http://www.history.com/topics/passover Explore Passover, a Jewish holiday that marks a key event: the exodus from Egypt. Find out about Passover history, traditions, foods and more. Peninsula Campaign http://www.history.com/topics/peninsula-campaign Get the full story of George McClellan’s failed Peninsula Campaign against Richmond during the Civil War. Pennsylvania http://www.history.com/topics/pennsylvania Centrally located on the Eastern Seaboard, Pennsylvania is one of the 13 original American colonies. Pericles http://www.history.com/topics/pericles The Athenian statesman Pericles (c.495-429 B.C.) led Athens during its zenith as a cultural force in Greece, during the later 5th century B.C. Persian Gulf War http://www.history.com/topics/persian-gulf-war The Persian Gulf War was an armed conflict that took place between Iraq and a coalition of nations as a result of Iraq's invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990. Peter I http://www.history.com/topics/peter-i-russia Petersburg Campaign http://www.history.com/topics/petersburg-campaign The Petersburg Campaign (June 1864-March 1865) was a climactic series of battles in southern Virginia during the American Civil War (1861-65), in which Union General Ulysses S. Grant faced off against Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Plato http://www.history.com/topics/plato The Athenian philosopher Plato is one of the most important figures of the Ancient Greek world and the entire history of Western thought. Pol Pot http://www.history.com/topics/pol-pot Get the facts on Pol Pot, leader of the Khmer Rouge movement that controlled Cambodia from 1975 to 1979. Potsdam Conference http://www.history.com/topics/potsdam-conference (July 17–Aug. 2, 1945), Allied conference of World War II held at Potsdam, a suburb of Berlin. The chief participants were U.S. President Harry S. Pancho Villa http://www.history.com/topics/pancho-villa (born June 5, 1878, Hacienda de Río Grande, San Juan del Río, Mexico—died June 20, 1923, Parral) Mexican revolutionary and guerrilla leader, who fought against the regimes of both Porfirio Díaz and Victoriano Huerta and after 1914 engaged in civil war and banditry. Pyramids in Latin America http://www.history.com/topics/pyramids-in-latin-america In Latin America, great civilizations like the Olmec, Maya, Aztec and Inca built pyramids from 1000 B.C. all the way up to the time of the Spanish conquest. Pentagon http://www.history.com/topics/pentagon Located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., the Pentagon is the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense. Pequot http://www.history.com/topics/pequot any member of a group of Algonquian-speaking North American Indians who lived in the Thames valley in what is now Connecticut, U.S. Their subsistence was based on the cultivation of corn (maize), hunting, and fishing. P.G.T. Beauregard http://www.history.com/topics/pgt-beauregard Get the facts on P.G.T. Beauregard, a U.S. military officer who later served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. Battle of Plattsburgh http://www.history.com/topics/plattsburgh-battle-of On September 11, 1814, at the Battle of Plattsburgh on Lake Champlain in New York, during the War of 1812, an American naval force won a decisive victory against a British fleet. The American victory helped lead to the conclusion of peace negotiations between Britain and the United States in Ghent, Plymouth Colony http://www.history.com/topics/plymouth The first permanent European settlement in New England, Plymouth was founded by a group of religious separatists who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620. Pearl Harbor http://www.history.com/topics/pearl-harbor On December 7, 1941, hundreds of Japanese fighter planes attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The next day, President Franklin Roosevelt declared war on Japan. It was the official beginning of American involvement in World War II. Peloponnesian War http://www.history.com/topics/peloponnesian-war The great war between Athens and Sparta lasted for 27 years, destroyed the Athenian imperial system and changed the entire course of Greek military history. Puebla http://www.history.com/topics/puebla Owing to the region's rich volcanic soils and strategic location, Náhuatl-speaking Indians once developed a complex civilization in Puebla; today, many monumental ruins can be found throughout the state. Puebla is also the home of Mole Poblano, a traditional Mexican dish. Presidential Elections http://www.history.com/topics/presidential-elections Explore the history of U.S. presidential elections. Presidential Election Facts http://www.history.com/topics/presidential-election-facts Fun Facts about U.S. presidents and elections. Project Blue Book http://www.history.com/topics/project-blue-book In the late 1940s, the U.S. Air Force began investigations into an increasing number of reports of UFOs in American skies. Philip Sheridan http://www.history.com/topics/philip-sheridan Philip Sheridan was an aggressive Union general during the American Civil War. He distinguished himself as an exceptional cavalry commander and defeated Confederate General Robert E. Lee at the important Battle of Five Forks in April 1865. Perestroika and Glasnost http://www.history.com/topics/perestroika-and-glasnost When Mikhail S. Gorbachev became leader of the Soviet Union in 1985, he ushered in an era of unprecedented change that ended the Cold War and reshaped the nations of Eastern Europe. Pelé http://www.history.com/topics/pele The soccer (football) star Pelé was part of the Brazilian national teams that won three World Cup championships (1958, 1962, and 1970). Pompeii http://www.history.com/topics/pompeii In the year 79 A.D., Mount Vesuvius erupted near what is now Naples, Italy. The volcano buried the Roman city of Pompeii under a thick blanket of ashes and killed nearly 2,000 people. Presidents' Day http://www.history.com/topics/presidents-day Get the facts on Presidents' Day, an American holiday originally established in recognition of George Washington’s birthday. Pentagon Papers http://www.history.com/topics/pentagon-papers Get the full story of the Pentagon Papers, the secret U.S. government study of the Vietnam War leaked to the press by Daniel Ellsberg. Pick & Tell Contest http://www.history.com/pick-and-tell-contest HISTORY wants students across the country to search for and tell us about the artifacts, collectibles, and unique items in their backyards. WIN $10,000 AND A TIRP TO D.C. Get Pickin’ Today! The Quakers http://www.history.com/topics/quakers the Society of Friends, or Quakers, may be regarded as the fullest expression of the Reformation. Queen Victoria http://www.history.com/topics/queen-victoria Victoria (1819-1901) was queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland (1837–1901) and empress of India (1876–1901). She was the last monarch of the House of Hanover and gave her name to an era, the Victorian Age. Querétaro http://www.history.com/topics/queretaro Mexicans first declared their independence in Querétaro, one of Mexico’s smallest states. The capital city of Santiago de Querétaro is known for its 74-arched aqueduct built in the early 1700s. Quintana Roo http://www.history.com/topics/quintana-roo In the early 1970s (about the same time that Quintana Roo achieved statehood), Cancún, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel began to rapidly develop as tourist destinations. The Rwandan Genocide http://www.history.com/topics/rwandan-genocide Over three months in 1994, members of the Hutu ethnic majority in Rwanda murdered as many as 800,000 people, mostly minority Tutsis, in one of the worst genocides in modern history. Rosh Hashanah http://www.history.com/topics/rosh-hashanah-history Explore Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year and one of the high holy days on the Jewish religious calendar. Discover Rosh Hashanah's significance and more. Reconstruction http://www.history.com/topics/reconstruction For a little more than a decade after the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, the South underwent a period of social, political and economic upheaval known as Reconstruction (1865-1877). Robert E. Lee http://www.history.com/topics/robert-e-lee Lee's most brilliantly fought battle was the defeat of Joseph Hooker at Chancellorsville on May 1-4, 1863. Rosalynn Carter http://www.history.com/topics/rosalynn-carter American first lady, Rosalynn Carter is the wife of Jimmy Carter and mental health advocate. The Reformation http://www.history.com/topics/reformation Get the facts on the Protestant Reformation, the 16th-century religious, political, intellectual and cultural upheaval that splintered Catholic Europe. Ruth Bader Ginsburg http://www.history.com/topics/ruth-bader-ginsburg (born March 15, 1933, Brooklyn, New York, U.S.) associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993. She was only the second woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Rudy Giuliani http://www.history.com/topics/rudolph-w-giuliani Get the facts on Rudy Giuliani, mayor of New York City from 1994 to 2001. Robert F. Kennedy http://www.history.com/topics/robert-f-kennedy Find out about the life of Robert F. Kennedy, a U.S. attorney general and senator as well as a brother of President John Kennedy who was assassinated in 1968. Robert M. La Follette http://www.history.com/topics/robert-m-la-follette (born June 14, 1855, Primrose, Wis., U.S.—died June 18, 1925, Washington, D.C.) U.S. leader of the Progressive Movement, who as governor of Wisconsin (1901–06) and U. Robert Mugabe http://www.history.com/topics/robert-mugabe Get the facts on Robert Mugabe, leader of Zimbabwe since its independence in 1980. Ralph Nader http://www.history.com/topics/ralph-nader (born February 27, 1934, Winsted, Conn., U.S.) American lawyer and consumer advocate who was a four-time candidate for the U.S. presidency (1996, 2000, 2004, and 2008). Richard M. Nixon http://www.history.com/topics/richard-m-nixon Richard Nixon, the 37th president of the United States, was the first to resign from office. Rosa Parks http://www.history.com/topics/rosa-parks Rosa Parks was an African American civil rights activist whose refusal to relinquish her seat on a public bus to a white man precipitated the 1955–56 Montgomery bus boycott in Alabama. Find out more about the woman known as, "The mother of the civil rights movement." Raymond Poincaré http://www.history.com/topics/raymond-poincare French statesman Raymond Poincaré (1860-1934) served his country as president during World War I (1914-18) and as prime minister through later financial crises. Ronald Reagan http://www.history.com/topics/ronald-reagan Explore the life and legacy of President Ronald Reagan, a former actor and California governor who served as the 40th U.S. president from 1981 to 1989. Rhode Island http://www.history.com/topics/rhode-island One of the original 13 U.S. colonies, Rhode Island is the smallest state in the union. Roswell http://www.history.com/topics/roswell Discover the history of Roswell, the New Mexico town where many believe an extraterrestrial flying saucer with aliens aboard crashed in 1947. Russian Revolution http://www.history.com/topics/russian-revolution Explore the Russian Revolution of 1917, which ended imperial rule and led to the Soviet Union's creation. Get the facts on its causes, Vladimir Lenin and more. Reign of Terror http://www.history.com/topics/reign-of-terror The Reign of Terror was a a 10-month period during the French Revolution in which suspected enemies of the revolution were guillotined by the thousands. Robert A. Toombs http://www.history.com/topics/robert-a-toombs Robert Toombs was a Confederate general and statesman during the American Civil War, and a strong opponent of Reconstruction. Rafael Trujillo http://www.history.com/topics/rafael-trujillo Dictator of the Dominican Republic from 1930 until his assassination in 1961, Rafael Trujillo led an oppressive regime that was responsible for the deaths of thousands of civilians. Rachel Jackson http://www.history.com/topics/rachel-jackson Rachel Jackson was the wife of U.S. Army general and president-elect Andrew Jackson, who became the seventh president of the United States. Rutherford B. Hayes http://www.history.com/topics/rutherford-b-hayes The 19th U.S. president, Hayes ended Reconstruction and reformed civil service. Roger Williams http://www.history.com/topics/roger-williams Rhode Island founder Roger Williams was a staunch advocate of religious freedom and separation of church and state. The Roaring Twenties http://www.history.com/topics/roaring-twenties The popular image of the 1920s is of a gin-soaked, jazz-syncopated, frivolous time – the "Roaring Twenties" – but find out the rest of the story about Prohibition and the people who supported it and benefited from it. Richard Daley http://www.history.com/topics/richard-daley Richard Daley served as mayor of Chicago for 21 years, and was a major force in the national Democratic party. Declaration of Independence: Full Text http://www.history.com/topics/read-the-declaration-of-independence Roscoe Sheller http://www.history.com/topics/roscoe-sheller Roscoe Sheller of Sunnyside, Washington, took his first ride in a Model T Ford in 1915 and went on to make his living selling the iconic "Tin Lizzie" to thousands of satisfied customers. Rosie the Riveter http://www.history.com/topics/rosie-the-riveter During World War II, the U.S. government recruited female workers to join the munitions industry through the famous "Rosie the Riveter" propaganda campaign. The Real Robin Hood http://www.history.com/topics/robin-hood The hero of countless films and works of literature, Robin Hood is a legendary outlaw from the 13th century or earlier. Radio and Television http://www.history.com/topics/radio-and-television Of all the major inventions of the 20th century, few have had a more profound impact on people's lives than radio and television. Red Scare http://www.history.com/topics/red-scare Growing out of the Cold War of the late 1940s and 1950s, the Red Scare resulted in a wide-ranging effort to investigate and eliminate communist influence in the United States. Rosenberg Case http://www.history.com/topics/rosenberg-case Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were a husband and wife executed in 1953 for allegedly providing atomic secrets to the Soviet Union at the height of the Cold War. Reaction to 9/11 http://www.history.com/topics/reaction-to-9-11 After the 9/11 attacks, Americans came together in mourning and anger, joining hands, waving flags and lending support. Renaissance Art http://www.history.com/topics/renaissance-art From the 14th to the 16th centuries, Renaissance art-dedicated to the expression of nature, humanity and classical ideals-flourished in Europe. Ramadan http://www.history.com/topics/ramadan In Islam, Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, introspection and prayer. Richard Ewell http://www.history.com/topics/richard-ewell Find out more about the life of Richard Ewell, who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. Romances That Changed History http://www.history.com/topics/romances-that-changed-history For better or for worse, these historic romances altered the course of history. Red Square http://www.history.com/topics/red-square Since the late 15th century, Moscow's central Red Square has been at the center of Russia's political and cultural life. Seven Ancient Wonders of the World http://www.history.com/topics/seven-ancient-wonders-of-the-world The works of art and architecture known as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World serve as a testament to human ingenuity. St. Patrick's Day http://www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day Discover the history behind St. Patrick's Day, observed by the Irish for 1,000 years. Find out about the customary St. Patrick's Day meal, popular holiday traditions and more. St. Patrick's Day Facts http://www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day-facts Find out where to celebrate in the U.S. and how much corned beef and cabbage Americans eat every year. St. Patrick's Day Symbols and Traditions http://www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day-symbols-and-traditions From shamrocks to leprechauns see how the symbols of St. Patrick's Day came to be part of the holiday. St. Patrick's Day Toasts http://www.history.com/topics/slainte-st-patricks-day Toast your friends on St. Patrick's Day with these traditional sayings. Samuel Adams http://www.history.com/topics/samuel-adams Samuel Adams was a noted American revolutionary political leader and brewer. Samuel Gompers http://www.history.com/topics/samuel-gompers (1850-1924), cofounder and first president, American Federation of Labor. Secession http://www.history.com/topics/secession Secession, as it applies to the outbreak of the American Civil War, comprises the series of events that began on December 20, 1860, and extended through June 8 of the next year when eleven states in the Lower and Upper South severed their ties with the Union. Slavery in America http://www.history.com/topics/slavery The first African slaves were brought to the North American colony of Jamestown, Virginia in 1619, to aid in the production of such lucrative crops as tobacco. Slavery was practiced throughout the American colonies in the 17th and 18th centuries, and African-American slaves helped build the economic Slave Rebellions http://www.history.com/topics/slavery-iv-slave-rebellions From the earliest days of the peculiar institution, resistance was a constant feature of American slavery. Southern Colonies http://www.history.com/topics/southern-colonies Colonization of the North American coast might have evolved differently if the English expedition sent to Roanoke Island by Sir Walter Raleigh in the 1580s had established a lasting foothold on the Outer Banks. Seven Years' War http://www.history.com/topics/seven-years-war The Seven Years' War, fought between 1756 and 1763, was a global conflict involving the great powers of North America and Europe. Sieges http://www.history.com/topics/sieges The siege constitutes the natural corollary of fortifications, and until the advent of aerial bombardment a fortified location could be compelled to surrender in war only by employing one of four strategies. Sun Tzu http://www.history.com/topics/sun-tzu Sixth or fifth century b.c. Chinese General Strikes http://www.history.com/topics/strikes Strikes are organized events in which workers stop production and refuse to return to their jobs until their demands are met. Sojourner Truth http://www.history.com/topics/sojourner-truth Sojourner Truth was a prominent abolitionist and women's rights activist whose legacy of feminism and racial equality still resonates today. Siege of Boston http://www.history.com/topics/siege-of-boston On March 2, 1776, General George Washington ordered American artillery forces to begin bombarding Boston from their positions at Lechmere Point, northwest of the city center. Samuel Colt http://www.history.com/topics/samuel-colt The Colt "revolver" was the first reliable repeating firearm and the first gun to incorporate interchangeable parts. Stephen A. Douglas http://www.history.com/topics/stephen-a-douglas Stephen A. Douglas (1813-1861) was a U.S. politician, leader of the Democratic Party, and orator who espoused the cause of popular sovereignty in relation to the issue of slavery in the territories before the American Civil War (1861–65). Sir Francis Drake http://www.history.com/topics/sir-francis-drake One of the world’s most well-known privateers, Francis Drake became the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe and was personally knighted by Queen Elizabeth I. Sam Houston http://www.history.com/topics/sam-houston (born March 2, 1793, Rockbridge County, Va., U.S.—died July 26, 1863, Huntsville, Texas) U.S. lawyer and politician, a leader of the struggle by U. Stonewall Jackson http://www.history.com/topics/stonewall-jackson Jackson was a key Confederate general during the American Civil War and was killed by friendly fire at the Battle of Chancellorsville. Joan of Arc http://www.history.com/topics/saint-joan-of-arc Acting under what she believed was divine guidance, the 17-year-old peasant girl Joan of Arc led French forces in a stunning victory over English invaders at Orléans in 1429. Siege of Leningrad http://www.history.com/topics/siege-of-leningrad (Sept. 8, 1941–Jan. 27, 1944), prolonged siege of the city of Leningrad (St. Petersburg) in the Soviet Union by German and Finnish armed forces during World War II. Statue of Liberty http://www.history.com/topics/statue-of-liberty Get the facts on the Statue of Liberty, one of America’s most iconic landmarks. Sandra Day O'Connor http://www.history.com/topics/sandra-day-oconnor Sandra Day O'Connor (1930-) was an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1981 to 2006, and was the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Siege of Orléans http://www.history.com/topics/siege-of-orleans The end to the siege of the French city of Orleans became the military turning point of the Hundred Years' War between France and England. Sir Walter Raleigh http://www.history.com/topics/sir-walter-raleigh (born 1554?, Hayes Barton, near Budleigh Salterton, Devon, England—died October 29, 1618, London) English adventurer and writer, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, who knighted him in 1585. St. Valentine's Day Massacre http://www.history.com/topics/saint-valentines-day-massacre Seven men were shot dead in a Chicago garage on February 14, 1929, in one of the bloodiest examples of the gang violence that plagued the city during the Prohibition era. San Francisco Earthquake of 1906 http://www.history.com/topics/san-francisco-earthquake-of-1906 On April 18, 1906, a devastating earthquake shook San Francisco in the early morning hours, leaving the city in shambles. Sitting Bull http://www.history.com/topics/sitting-bull Sitting Bull was the Lakota Indian chief under whom the Sioux tribes united in their struggle for survival on the North American Great Plains. Socrates http://www.history.com/topics/socrates Socrates was a Greek philosopher whose way of life, character, and thought exerted a profound influence on ancient and modern philosophy. South Carolina http://www.history.com/topics/south-carolina One of the 13 original colonies, South Carolina lies on the southern Eastern Seaboard of the United States. South Dakota http://www.history.com/topics/south-dakota Discover the history of South Dakota, a state named for the Dakota Sioux people. Find out more about this state on History.com. Stamp Act http://www.history.com/topics/stamp-act The Stamp Act of 1765 was the first internal tax levied directly on American colonists by the British government. It aroused a firestorm of resistance that would result 10 years later in the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War (1775-83). Suez Crisis http://www.history.com/topics/suez-crisis On Oct 29, 1956, Israeli armed forces pushed into Egypt toward the Suez Canal after Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser nationalized it, initiating the Suez Crisis. Siege of Yorktown http://www.history.com/topics/siege-of-yorktown On October 19, 1781 at Yorktown, Virginia, British General Lord Cornwallis surrendered 8,000 British soldiers and seamen to a larger Franco-American force, effectively bringing an end to the American Revolution. Samurai and Bushido http://www.history.com/topics/samurai-and-bushido The samurai were members of a powerful military caste in feudal Japan who rose to power in the service of the powerful landowners who backed the military dictator, or shogun. Salmon P. Chase http://www.history.com/topics/salmon-p-chase Find out more about Salmon P. Chase, a U.S. senator, governor of Ohio and Supreme Court chief justice who served as the U.S. secretary of the Treasury during the Civil War. San Francisco http://www.history.com/topics/san-francisco Explore the history of San Francisco, which evolved from a Spanish mission and pueblo into one of the most influential U.S. cities. San Francisco–Oakland earthquake of 1989 http://www.history.com/topics/san-francisco-oakland-earthquake-of-1989 On October 17, 1989, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake hit the San Francisco Bay Area, killing 67 people and causing more than $5 billion in damages. Sarah Polk http://www.history.com/topics/sarah-polk Sarah Polk was an American first lady, wife of James K. Polk, the 11th president of the United States. Shirley Chisholm http://www.history.com/topics/shirley-chisholm (born November 30, 1924, Brooklyn, New York, U.S.—died January 1, 2005, Ormond Beach, Florida) American politician, the first African American woman to be elected to the U. The SS http://www.history.com/topics/ss Founded in 1925, the "Schutzstaffel," or SS, initially served as Nazi Party leader Adolf Hitler's personal bodyguards. Under the leadership of Heinrich Himmler, the SS became one of the most powerful and feared paramilitary organizations in all of Nazi Germany. Stokely Carmichael http://www.history.com/topics/stokely-carmichael Explore the life of Stokely Carmichael, the West-Indian-born civil-rights activist, leader of black nationalism in the United States in the 1960s and originator of its rallying slogan, “black power. Shays' Rebellion http://www.history.com/topics/shays-rebellion Although it never seriously threatened the stability of the United States, Shays' Rebellion greatly alarmed politicians throughout the nation. Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee http://www.history.com/topics/student-non-violent-coordinating-committee The Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (sncc), formed to give younger blacks more of a voice in the civil rights movement, became one of the movement's more radical branches. Second Battle of Sedan http://www.history.com/topics/second-battle-of-sedan The Second Battle of Sedan began on May 10, 1940, when German forces advanced into Luxembourg and Belgium. Spartans http://www.history.com/topics/spartans Find out more about Sparta, its military-dominated society and the disastrous defeat that finally caused its decline. San Luis Potosí http://www.history.com/topics/san-luis-potosi San Luis Potosí, which has some of the richest silver mines in Mexico, is also where Gonzales Bocanegra wrote the Mexican national anthem in 1854. Sinaloa http://www.history.com/topics/sinaloa Sinaloa is the only place in Mexico where the ancient ball game called ulama is still played. It’s also the home of banda music, damiana, a popular herb based liquor, boxer Julio Cesar Chavez and soccer player Angel Eduardo Ochoa Uriarte. Sonora http://www.history.com/topics/sonora Sonora, the second largest state in Mexico, is sparsely populated. Mountainous and arid, the region is sunny almost year–round and has little rainfall. Nearly all of Mexico’s copper is produced here. The States http://www.history.com/topics/states Explore the history of each of the 50 U.S. states, including how each state joined the union and ratified the Constitution. Get the facts on U.S. geography. Sally Hemings http://www.history.com/topics/sally-hemings Considerable evidence now suggests that Thomas Jefferson had a longstanding intimate relationship with one of his slaves, Sally Hemings, and that he fathered several of her children. Selma to Montgomery March http://www.history.com/topics/selma-montgomery-march In 1965, Martin Luther King Jr. led a protest march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, bringing attention to conditions preventing many blacks from exercising their right to vote. Santa Claus http://www.history.com/topics/santa-claus Discover the history of the man we all know as Santa Claus. From the legend of St. Nick to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, take a trip to the North Pole. Sherman's March http://www.history.com/topics/shermans-march In 1864, Union Gen. William T. Sherman led 60,000 soldiers across Georgia in his "March to the Sea." The Space Race http://www.history.com/topics/space-race During the 1950s and '60s, the United States and the Soviet Union engaged in a heated competition to see which superpower would dominate the exploration of space. Major Blizzards in U.S. History http://www.history.com/topics/storms-of-the-centuries Get the facts on the blizzards, nor'easters and winter storms that have gone down in U.S. history. Susan B. Anthony http://www.history.com/topics/susan-b-anthony Susan B. Anthony was a pioneer crusader for the woman suffrage movement in the United States. Sacagawea http://www.history.com/topics/sacagawea Sacagawea was a Shoshone Indian woman who traveled with the Lewis and Clark Expedition from the Dakotas to the Pacific Northwest. Susannah Dickinson http://www.history.com/topics/susannah-dickinson Susannah Dickinson was one of the only Texan survivors of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, and became one of the most quoted eyewitnesses about the historic struggle. Spanish American War http://www.history.com/topics/spanish-american-war A brief war the United States fought with Spain that resulted in the independence of Cuba. Spindletop http://www.history.com/topics/spindletop A tremendous geyser of oil blew out of the ground atop the Spindletop salt mound in southeastern Texas on January 10, 1901, marking the birth of the modern petroleum industry. Stonehenge http://www.history.com/topics/stonehenge Explore the mystery of England's Stonehenge, a famous prehistoric monument composed of massive standing stones, and find out what makes it a true marvel of engineering. Securities and Exchange Commission http://www.history.com/topics/securities-and-exchange-commission The Securities and Exchange Commission was established in 1934 to regulate the commerce in stocks, bonds, and other securities. Supreme Court Facts http://www.history.com/topics/supreme-court-facts From why justices don't wear wigs to how much they earn, U.S. Supreme Court history boasts a wealth of fascinating facts. Salt March http://www.history.com/topics/salt-march On March 12, 1930, Indian independence leader Mohandas Gandhi began a defiant march to the sea in protest of the British monopoly on salt. Sharecropping & "Forty Acres and a Mule" http://www.history.com/topics/sharecropping During the Reconstruction era in the South, many African Americans were forced into a type of tenant farming known as sharecropping. Saladin http://www.history.com/topics/saladin Saladin (1137/1138–1193) was a Muslim military and political leader who as sultan (or leader) led Islamic forces during the Crusades. Saladin's greatest triumph came at the Battle of Hattin in 1187, which paved the way for the Islamic re-conquest of Jerusalem and other Holy Land cities in the Near Shenandoah Valley Campaigns http://www.history.com/topics/shenandoah-valley-campaigns Between 1861 and 1865, Virginia's Shenandoah Valley saw a series of military clashes as Union and Confederate forces attempted to gain control of the area. Salem Witch Trials http://www.history.com/topics/salem-witch-trials Find out what really happened during the Salem witch trials of 1693-93. U.S. Presidents http://www.history.com/topics/the-us-presidents Discover the history behind the presidents of the United States. Find out which president served the longest, who the youngest president was and much more. The Holocaust http://www.history.com/topics/the-holocaust From 1941 to 1945, Adolf Hitler's totalitarian Nazi regime murdered some six million European Jews during World War II. Major Religions on the End of the World http://www.history.com/topics/the-end-of-the-world Most major religions, including Christianity and Islam, have theories on how and when the world will end. Thanksgiving Facts http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving-facts Get the facts about Thanksgiving, including which U.S. state produces the most turkey. Discover more Thanksgiving facts on History.com. Thanksgiving http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving Explore the history of Thanksgiving, a U.S. holiday that dates back to colonial times. Learn about the first Thanksgiving feast, traditions and more. The Pilgrims' Menu http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving-pilgrims-menu Find out what was on the menu for Thanksgiving back in 1621. Foods that may have been on the menu and foods which were not. Thomas Hutchinson http://www.history.com/topics/thomas-hutchinson (1711-1780), American colonial politician, judge, and historian. Technology http://www.history.com/topics/technology Technology is systematic, purposeful manipulation of the material world. Tôjô Hideki http://www.history.com/topics/tojo-hideki Wartime leader of Japan's government, General Tôjô Hideki, with his close-cropped hair, mustache, and round spectacles, became for Allied propagandists one of the most commonly caricatured members of Japan's military dictatorship throughout the Pacific war. Treaty of Versailles http://www.history.com/topics/treaty-of-versailles The Treaty of Versailles brought World War I to an end. Treaties of Brest-Litovsk http://www.history.com/topics/treaties-of-brest-litovsk On March 3, 1918, in the city of Brest-Litovsk, located in modern-day Belarus near the Polish border, Russia signed a treaty with the Central Powers ending its participation in World War I. Tammany Hall http://www.history.com/topics/tammany-hall the executive committee of the Democratic Party in New York City historically exercising political control through the typical boss-ist blend of charity and patronage. Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire http://www.history.com/topics/triangle-shirtwaist-fire The Triangle Shirtwaist Company factory burned down in 1911, killing 145 workers and raising awareness of dangerous factory conditions. Tuskegee Airmen http://www.history.com/topics/tuskegee-airmen Find out more about the Tuskegee Airmen; black servicemen of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II who constituted the first African-American flying unit in U.S. history. Thomas Alva Edison http://www.history.com/topics/thomas-edison Find out more about Thomas Edison, one of the world’s most famous and prolific inventors. Treaty of Ghent http://www.history.com/topics/treaty-of-ghent On December 24, 1814, The Treaty of Ghent was signed by British and American representatives at Ghent, Belgium, ending the War of 1812. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo http://www.history.com/topics/treaty-of-guadalupe-hidalgo On February 2, 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, ending the Mexican-American War in favor of the United States. Tadeusz Kosciuszko http://www.history.com/topics/tadeusz-kosciuszko Polish military leader Tadeusz Kosciuszko fought on the side of the American colonies in the Revolutionary War and led a revolutionary uprising in his own country. T. E. Lawrence http://www.history.com/topics/t-e-lawrence T.E. Lawrence was a British army officer whose work and involvement in the Middle East during World War I earned him fame as Lawrence of Arabia. Thomas Paine http://www.history.com/topics/thomas-paine (born January 29, 1737, Thetford, Norfolk, England—died June 8, 1809, New York, N.Y., U.S.) English-American writer and political pamphleteer whose “Common Sense” and “Crisis” papers were important influences on the American Revolution. Taiwan earthquake of 1999 http://www.history.com/topics/taiwan-earthquake-of-1999 On September 21, 1999, an earthquake in Taiwan killed thousands of people and caused billions of dollars in damages, leaving an estimated 100,000 homeless. Tea Act http://www.history.com/topics/tea-act The Tea Act of 1773 was one of several taxes levied on American colonists by Great Britain. Resistance to the tax compelled the British government to impose oppressive measures on the colonists, contributing to the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War (1775-83). Tecumseh http://www.history.com/topics/tecumseh (born 1768, Old Piqua [modern Clark county, Ohio, U.S.]—died October 5, 1813, near Thames River, Upper Canada [now in Ontario, Can.]) Shawnee Indian chief, orator, military leader, and advocate of intertribal Indian alliance who directed Indian resistance to white rule in the Ohio River valley Morse Code & the Telegraph http://www.history.com/topics/telegraph Developed in the 1830s and 1840s by Samuel Morse and other inventors, the telegraph revolutionized long-distance communication. Tennessee http://www.history.com/topics/tennessee Explore Tennessee's mix of economic, social and cultural patterns. Discover the 16th state's rich Native American heritage, diverse wildlife and more. Tennis Court Oath http://www.history.com/topics/tennis-court-oath On June 20, 1789 in Versailles, France, the deputies of the Third Estate met on the Jeu de Paume, an indoor tennis court, in defiance of King Louis XVI's order to disperse. Texas http://www.history.com/topics/texas Texas occupies the south-central segment of the country and is the largest state in area except for Alaska. Thirteenth Amendment http://www.history.com/topics/thirteenth-amendment The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution officially abolished slavery in America, and was ratified on December 6, 1865, after the conclusion of the American Civil War. Thirty Years' War http://www.history.com/topics/thirty-years-war (1618–48), in European history, a series of wars fought by various nations for various reasons, including religious, dynastic, territorial, and commercial rivalries. Thucydides http://www.history.com/topics/thucydides The author of the History of the Peloponnesian War, Thucydides was one ancient Greece's greatest historians. Titanic http://www.history.com/topics/titanic Dive in to the history of Titanic, including the making of the ship, its passengers, how it sank on its maiden voyage in 1912 and the discovery of its wreck. Townshend Acts http://www.history.com/topics/townshend-acts (June 15–July 2, 1767), in U.S. colonial history, series of four acts passed by the British Parliament in an attempt to assert what it considered to be its historic right to exert authority over the colonies through suspension of a recalcitrant representative assembly and through strict Trail of Tears http://www.history.com/topics/trail-of-tears Get the full story of the Trail of Tears, the U.S. government-ordered removal of tens of thousands of Native Americans from their homelands in the southeastern United States to new lands west of the Mississippi River. Trent Affair http://www.history.com/topics/trent-affair On November 8, 1861, the U.S. Navy boarded the Trent, a British mail steamer at sean near the Bahamas, and arrested Confederate envoys James Mason and John Slidell. Tutankhamen http://www.history.com/topics/tutankhamen Find our more about the life of King Tut, who ruled Egypt as pharaoh when he was just 9 years old. "The Godfather" and the Mafia in Popular Culture http://www.history.com/topics/the-godfather-and-the-mafia-in-popular-culture From Al Capone and Vito Corleone to John Gotti and Tony Soprano, real-life and fictional mafiosos have captured the public imagination since the 1920s. Tombs http://www.history.com/topics/tombs A tomb is a house, chamber or vault for the dead. Some of the most famous tombs in the world include the pyramids of Egypt, the Taj Mahal, the Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. The Fight for Women's Suffrage http://www.history.com/topics/the-fight-for-womens-suffrage Check out the history behind women's suffrage and the events that led to the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Find out how women got the right to vote. Tenure of Office Act http://www.history.com/topics/tenure-of-office-act (March 2, 1867), in the post-Civil War period of U.S. history, law forbidding the president to remove civil officers without senatorial consent. Three Mile Island http://www.history.com/topics/three-mile-island nuclear power station and the island on which it is situated, in the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, U.S. The most serious accident in the history of the American nuclear power industry occurred there in 1979. Trojan War http://www.history.com/topics/trojan-war The Trojan War was a legendary conflict between the early Greeks and the people of Troy during the 12th or 13th century BC. The Demise of the Mafia http://www.history.com/topics/the-demise-of-the-mafia During the later part of the 20th century, law-enforcement agencies made progress in weakening the Mafia, a network of organized-crime groups that operates primarily in Italy and the United States. Egyptian Pyramids http://www.history.com/topics/the-egyptian-pyramids Discover the Egyptian pyramids. Explore these magnificent manmade structures, the powerful civilizations that built them and more on History.com. The Death of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the Outbreak of World War I http://www.history.com/topics/the-death-of-archduke-franz-ferdinand-and-the-outbreak-of--world-war-i In June 1914, a young Serbian nationalist killed Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo, Bosnia. The assassination would set off a chain of events leading to the start of the First World War. Thomas Jefferson http://www.history.com/topics/thomas-jefferson The third U.S. president and a renowned political philosopher, Thomas Jefferson played a significant role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Thurgood Marshall http://www.history.com/topics/thurgood-marshall Explore the life of Thurgood Marshall, a U.S. Supreme Court justice and civil rights advocate, who is best known for his participation in the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, KS. Treaty of Paris (1783) http://www.history.com/topics/treaty-of-paris-1783 The Treaty of Paris of 1783, negotiated between the United States and Great Britain, ended the revolutionary war and recognized American independence. Theodore Roosevelt http://www.history.com/topics/theodore-roosevelt Get the full story of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th president of the United States. Tet Offensive http://www.history.com/topics/tet-offensive Get the full story of the Tet Offensive during the Vietnam War. Tokugawa Ieyasu http://www.history.com/topics/tokugawa-ieyasu Japanese warlord who founded a dynastic military government that endured for nearly three centuries. Tabasco http://www.history.com/topics/tabasco This low, flat state still has a large indigenous population that lives primarily in rural areas. Contrary to popular belief, Tabasco was not named after the spicy peppers of the same name, though the state is a major producer of other farm products, including cacao, coconuts, corn (maize), Tamaulipas http://www.history.com/topics/tamaulipas Tamaulipas is home to Tampico, one of the country's first ports, as well as many major theater groups. Tlaxcala http://www.history.com/topics/tlaxcala Tlaxcala, Mexico’s smallest state, was once home to the ancient Olmeca–Xicalanca civilization. Tlaxcala is home to three famous bullrings. The most popular is the Jorge "El Ranchero" Aguilar plaza, built in the 18th century in the heart of Tlaxcala City. Today it’s known for its farms and textiles! Thanksgiving: Fact or Fiction http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving-quiz How much do you really know about Thanksgiving? Can you tell Thanksgiving fact from fiction? Take A Veteran To School Day http://www.history.com/topics/take-a-vet Find out how Take a Veteran to School Day can link vets with schools to share moving stories. See how your community can say thanks to veterans on History.com. The Continental Congress http://www.history.com/topics/the-continental-congress From 1774 to 1789, the Continental Congress served as the government of the 13 American colonies and later the United States. The 26th Amendment http://www.history.com/topics/the-26th-amendment In March 1971, Congress passed the 26th Amendment to the Constitution, which set a minimum voting age of 18 for all federal, state and local elections. Thomas Jefferson Drafts the Declaration of Independence http://www.history.com/topics/thomas-jefferson-and-the-drafting-of-the-declaration-of-independence In 1776, Virginia planter and slave owner Thomas Jefferson wrote the foremost statement of human liberty and equality. Tobacco http://www.history.com/topics/tobacco Tobacco is a plant native to the Americas and one of the most important crops grown by American farmers. Narragansett http://www.history.com/topics/the-narragansett In the 17th century, the Narragansett was the largest of the Native American tribes living in pre-colonial Rhode Island. Ted Kennedy http://www.history.com/topics/ted-kennedy Find out about the life of Edward "Ted" Kennedy, a Democrat from Massachusetts who served in the U.S. Senate from 1962 to 2009. The HMS Jersey http://www.history.com/topics/the-hms-jersey During the American Revolution, some 11,000 soldiers, sailors and civilians died aboard the British prison ships anchored in New York harbor; the most infamous of these was the HMS Jersey. The Irish Brigade http://www.history.com/topics/the-irish-brigade During the Civil War, many Irish and Irish-Americans fought with the Union Army, often serving in all-Irish regiments known as the “Irish Brigade.” The 54th Massachusetts Infantry http://www.history.com/topics/the-54th-massachusetts-infantry Of the 2 million soldiers and sailors who fought for the Union during the Civil War, 180,000 were African Americans. The first all-African-American regiment was the 54th Massachusetts Infantry. Transcontinental Railroad http://www.history.com/topics/transcontinental-railroad In 1869 the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads were joined at Promontory, Utah, completing the transcontinental railroad. Tenements http://www.history.com/topics/tenements Throughout the 19th century, as America’s urban population exploded, immigrants and other poor residents were forced to live in tenement housing that was cramped, unsanitary and often unsafe. The Trinity Test http://www.history.com/topics/trinity-test On July 16, 1945, scientists from the top-secret nuclear development program known as the Manhattan Project exploded the first atomic bomb at the Trinity test site at Alamogordo, New Mexico. The Art of War http://www.history.com/topics/the-art-of-war Military leaders and heads of state have long relied on the 2,500-year-old Chinese book The Art of War for inspiration and advice. Discover how this meditation on the rules of war has caught the attention of a wider audience today. The 13 Colonies http://www.history.com/topics/thirteen-colonies In 1776, the Declaration of Independence announced that the 13 English colonies in North America were a sovereign nation: the United States of America. testpheroza http://www.history.com/topics/testpheroza test meta The Taj Mahal http://www.history.com/topics/taj-mahal The Taj Mahal, a magnificent 17th-century mausoleum in Agra, India, is one of the most famous structures in the world. Take A Veteran to School http://www.history.com/take-a-veteran-to-school Explore the Take a Vet to School program, and find out how you can get involved. Thank A Veteran at Work http://www.history.com/thank-a-veteran-at-work Explore the Take a Vet to School program, and find out how you can get involved. Take A Veteran To School Videos http://www.history.com/take-a-veteran-to-school-videos Explore the Take a Vet to School program, and find out how you can get involved. Thank A Vet Videos http://www.history.com/thank-a-veteran-at-work-videos Explore the Take a Vet to School program, and find out how you can get involved. U-2 Spy Incident http://www.history.com/topics/u2-spy-incident On May 1, 1960, an American U-2 spy plane was shot down over the Soviet Union, deepening the Cold War antagonism between the two superpowers. UFOs and Alien Invasions in Film http://www.history.com/topics/ufos-and-alien-invasions-in-film Friend or foe? Hollywood portrayals of aliens and UFOs change with each generation, and reflect contemporary cultural anxieties. Ulysses S. Grant http://www.history.com/topics/ulysses-s-grant Explore the legacy of Ulysses Grant, who commanded the Union army during the Civil War and later served as the 18th U.S. president from 1869 to 1877. Underground Railroad http://www.history.com/topics/underground-railroad The Underground Railroad was the term used to describe a network of persons who helped escaped slaves on their way to freedom in the northern states or Canada. United States Immigration Before 1965 http://www.history.com/topics/united-states-immigration-to-1965 Find out about immigration to the United States in the years before 1965, when America received large waves of Europeans seeking better lives. The U.S. Home Front During World War II http://www.history.com/topics/us-home-front-during-world-war-ii During World War II every aspect of American life was impacted, from ordinary daily routines to the role and content of popular entertainment. U.S. Immigration Since 1965 http://www.history.com/topics/us-immigration-since-1965 In the decades following the passage of the Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965, new immigration policies made an immediate and lasting impact on the demographic makeup of the United States. Utah http://www.history.com/topics/utah The 45th member of the Union, Utah has an economy based on manufacturing, tourism, services, agriculture and mining. Victory in Japan (V-J) Day http://www.history.com/topics/v-j-day Explore the history of Victory in Japan Day, also known as V-J Day, which commemorates Japan's surrender to the Allies at the end of World War II. Valentine's Day http://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day Explore the history of Valentine's Day, a holiday that celebrates love and is observed by exchanging candy & gifts. Find out why love is in the air on February 14. Valentine's Day Facts http://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day-facts Did you know that nearly 150 million cards are exchanged each Valentine's Day? Or that more than 40,000 American are employed at chocolate companies? Explore these and dozens more Valentine's Day facts about cards, chocolate, flowers and candy, the hallmarks of St. Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day Movie Guide http://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day-movie-guide These 15 romantic movies capture the spirit of Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day Quotations http://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day-quotations From Aristotle to Pablo Neruda, quotations about love are just the thing for Valentine's Day. Vasco da Gama http://www.history.com/topics/vasco-da-gama In the late 15th century, Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama (1460-1524) became the first person to sail directly from Europe to India. Vasco Núñez de Balboa http://www.history.com/topics/vasco-nunez-de-balboa In 1513, Spanish conquistador and explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa became the first European to catch sight of the eastern shore of the Pacific Ocean. Veracruz http://www.history.com/topics/veracruz Hernán Cortés founded the city of Veracruz while searching for gold in the region. Today, the state is famous for its beautiful beaches and Carnaval, an annual celebration featuring music, dance and spectacular parades. Vermont http://www.history.com/topics/vermont Despite recent changes, Vermont has retained much of its earlier character and a strong independent streak. Veterans Hub http://www.history.com/veterans Despite recent changes, Vermont has retained much of its earlier character and a strong independent streak. Veterans Day Facts http://www.history.com/topics/veterans-day-facts There are 23.2 million veterans in the United States. Find out more about the vets who have defended the U.S. in war and peacetime. Veterans Resources http://www.history.com/veterans-resources There are 23.2 million veterans in the United States. Find out more about the vets who have defended the U.S. in war and peacetime. Vicksburg Campaign http://www.history.com/topics/vicksburg-campaign In one of the most brilliant campaigns of the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant captured Vicksburg, Mississippi, splitting the Confederacy in two. Vietnam Veterans Memorial http://www.history.com/topics/vietnam-veterans-memorial Dedicated in 1982, this memorial, commonly called 'The Wall,' honors the members of the U.S. armed forces who served in the Vietnam War (1954-75). Vietnam War http://www.history.com/topics/vietnam-war Get the history of the Vietnam War, during which South Vietnam, aided by the United States, battled North Vietnam and its communist allies. Vietnam War Protests http://www.history.com/topics/vietnam-war-protests Opposition to American involvement in the Vietnam War grew steadily during the second half of the 1960s. Vietnamization http://www.history.com/topics/vietnamization In 1969, U.S. President Richard Nixon (1913-94) introduced a new strategy called Vietnamization aimed at ending American involvement in the Vietnam War (1954-75) by transferring all military responsibilities to South Vietnam. Vikings http://www.history.com/topics/vikings-history From around 800 to 1100 A.D., bands of Scandinavian seafaring warriors known as the Vikings raided and settled in vast areas of eastern and western Europe. Battle of Vimy Ridge http://www.history.com/topics/vimy-ridge-battle For the first time in World War I, the four Canadian divisions attacked together as the Canadian Corps, at Vimy in northern France. Virginia http://www.history.com/topics/virginia One of the 13 original U.S. states, Virginia is a hub of government and technology activity. Vladimir Ilich Lenin http://www.history.com/topics/vladimir-ilich-lenin Lenin was the founder of the Russian Communist Party, leader of the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution, and the architect, builder, and first head of the Soviet state. Vladimir Putin http://www.history.com/topics/vladimir-putin (born October 7, 1952, Leningrad, U.S.S.R. [now St. Petersburg, Russia]) Russian intelligence officer and politician who served as president (1999–2008) of Russia; he also was the country's prime minister in 1999 and again from 2008. Voices of D-Day http://www.history.com/topics/voices-of-d-day Discover the personal stories of American World War II veterans who participated in the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. Voting Rights Act http://www.history.com/topics/voting-rights-act The 1965 Voting Rights Act aimed to overcome legal barriers at the state and local levels that prevented African Americans from exercising their right to vote. W. E. B. Du Bois http://www.history.com/topics/w-e-b-du-bois (1868-1963), historian, sociologist, writer, and civil rights activist. Wade Hampton http://www.history.com/topics/wade-hampton Explore the life of Wade Hampton III, a South Carolina plantation owner and politician who served as a Confederate general during the Civil War. Raoul Wallenberg http://www.history.com/topics/wallenberg-raoul During World War II (1939-45), Raoul Wallenberg (1912-c. 1947), a Swedish businessman-turned-diplomat, saved thousands of Hungarian Jews from deportation to Nazi death camps. War http://www.history.com/topics/war In essence it is possible to think of war as an instrument in the hands of policy, as an end in itself, and as both a negation and a combination of the two. War of 1812 http://www.history.com/topics/war-of-1812 Get all the facts on the War of 1812, otherwise known as America's "second war of independence." Warren Commission http://www.history.com/topics/warren-commission Get the facts about the Warren Commission, appointed by U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson to investigate the assassination of John F. Kennedy in November 1963. Warren G. Harding http://www.history.com/topics/warren-g-harding The 29th U.S. president, Warren Harding (1865-1923) served in office from 1921 to 1923 before dying of an apparent heart attack. Harding's administration was marked by government corruption, including the Teapot Dome Scandal. Wars of the Roses http://www.history.com/topics/wars-of-the-roses (1455–85), in English history, the series of dynastic civil wars whose violence and civil strife preceded the strong government of the Tudors. Warsaw Ghetto Uprising http://www.history.com/topics/warsaw-ghetto-uprising The Warsaw Ghetto uprising was a resistance by Polish Jews under Nazi occupation in 1943 to the deportations from Warsaw to the Treblinka extermination camp. Washington http://www.history.com/topics/washington Lying at the northwestern corner of the 48 coterminous states, Washington is the country's leading producer of apples. Washington http://www.history.com/topics/washington city and capital of the United States of America. It is coextensive with the District of Columbia (the city is often referred to as simply D. Washington, D.C. http://www.history.com/topics/washington-dc Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States, is home to the federal government and many notable monuments. Water and Air Pollution http://www.history.com/topics/water-and-air-pollution Air and water pollution can damage ecosystems and be harmful to human health. Watergate Scandal http://www.history.com/topics/watergate Get the history behind Watergate, the scandal involving President Richard Nixon’s reelection campaign that forever changed American politics. Weapons of the Vietnam War http://www.history.com/topics/weapons-of-the-vietnam-war Find out more about the massively powerful and destructive weapons that were first used during the Vietnam War. Weather in War http://www.history.com/topics/weather-in-war For countless generations, weather has influenced the planning and conduct of military and naval campaigns. West Virginia http://www.history.com/topics/west-virginia West Virginia is tied economically and socially to the mountains that span its length and breadth and to the rivers that enclose it. Westward Expansion http://www.history.com/topics/westward-expansion Get the full story of the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century. What Happened to Amelia Earhart? http://www.history.com/topics/what-happened-to-amelia-earhart In the seven decades since Amelia Earhart's disappearance, a number of theories have emerged about how and where she died. What Is Genocide? http://www.history.com/topics/what-is-genocide The term genocide, defined as violence against a national, ethnic, racial or religious group with the intent to destroy it, entered common usage after World War II. Whig Party http://www.history.com/topics/whig-party in U.S. history, major political party active in the period 1834–54 that espoused a program of national development but foundered on the rising tide of sectional antagonism. Who Was St. Patrick? http://www.history.com/topics/who-was-saint-patrick Get to know the history of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Find out why he is one of Christianity's most widely known figures on History.com. Why Did the Dinosaurs Die Out? http://www.history.com/topics/why-did-the-dinosaurs-die-out Most paleontologists believe a comet, meteor or asteroid crashed into the earth some 65.5 million years ago, resulting in the sudden extinction of the dinosaurs and many other animal species. The Wilderness Road http://www.history.com/topics/wilderness-road The Wilderness Road, blazed by Daniel Boone, served as the main westward route for countless 18th- and 19th-century settlers. William Bradford http://www.history.com/topics/william-bradford William Bradford was a signer of the Mayflower Compact, and a founder and long-term governor of Plymouth colony. William Henry Harrison http://www.history.com/topics/william-henry-harrison William Henry Harrison (1773-1841), America’s ninth president, had the shortest presidency in U.S. history. One month after his 1841 inauguration, Harrison, a former Ohio politician and military officer who fought American Indians on the U.S. frontier, died of pneumonia. William Howard Taft http://www.history.com/topics/william-howard-taft Get the full story of William Howard Taft, the 27th U.S. president. William Jennings Bryan http://www.history.com/topics/william-jennings-bryan (born March 19, 1860, Salem, Ill., U.S.—died July 26, 1925, Dayton, Tenn.) Democratic and Populist leader and a magnetic orator who ran unsuccessfully three times for the U.S. presidency (1896, 1900, 1908). William McKinley http://www.history.com/topics/william-mckinley Get the full story of William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States. William Randolph Hearst http://www.history.com/topics/william-randolph-hearst (born April 29, 1863, San Francisco, California, U.S.—died August 14, 1951, Beverly Hills, California) American newspaper publisher who built up the nation's largest newspaper chain and whose methods profoundly influenced American journalism. William Seward http://www.history.com/topics/william-seward Find out more about William Seward, who served as governor of New York, as a U.S. senator and as secretary of state during the Civil War. William Shakespeare http://www.history.com/topics/william-shakespeare Find out about the life and work of William Shakespeare, the famous English playwright and poet. Get facts, a biography and more. William Tecumseh Sherman http://www.history.com/topics/william-t-sherman Discover the history of William Tecumseh Sherman, a Union Army leader during the Civil War. Find out why many consider him the most successful Union general. William Westmoreland http://www.history.com/topics/william-westmoreland General William Westmoreland commanded U.S. military operations during the Vietnam War from mid-1964 to mid-1968. Wilmot Proviso http://www.history.com/topics/wilmot-proviso in U.S. history, important congressional proposal in the 1840s to prohibit the extension of slavery into the territories, a basic plank upon which the Republican Party was subsequently built. Winfield Scott http://www.history.com/topics/winfield-scott During his fifty-three years of service, General Winfield Scott made a significant impact on the professionalization of the army. Winfield Scott Hancock http://www.history.com/topics/winfield-scott-hancock Explore the life of Winfield Scott Hancock, a U.S. Army officer and politician who served as a Union general during the Civil War. Winston S. Churchill http://www.history.com/topics/winston-churchill British statesman Winston Churchill was a writer, orator and formidable military strategist. He is best known for leading the Allies to victory in World War II. Winter Olympics Technology http://www.history.com/topics/winter-olympics-technology Discover the technology behind some of the greatest feats at the Winter Olympics. Wisconsin http://www.history.com/topics/wisconsin The 30th U.S. state, Wisconsin is the nation's leading dairy producer. Discover more facts about the Badger State. Woman's Christian Temperance Union http://www.history.com/topics/womans-christian-temperance-union- The WCTU became one of the largest and most influential women's groups of the 19th century, leading the fight in favor of Prohibition. Women in the Civil War http://www.history.com/topics/women-in-the-civil-war The coming of the Civil War challenged the ideology of Victorian domesticity that had defined the lives of men and women in the antebellum era. Women in the Vietnam War http://www.history.com/topics/women-in-the-vietnam-war Did you know that approximately 11,000 women served in the U.S. military in Vietnam? Women Who Fought for the Vote http://www.history.com/topics/women-who-fought-for-the-vote In 1920, American women voted for the first time, thanks to activists such as Susan B. Anthony, Alice Paul and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Women's History http://www.history.com/topics/womens-history Explore the achievements of women throughout history. Women's History Month http://www.history.com/topics/womens-history-month Explore Women's History Month, which recognizes women's contributions. Find out how it grew from a small event to a celebration across the U.S. and elsewhere. Woodrow Wilson http://www.history.com/topics/woodrow-wilson Get the facts on Woodrow Wilson, the 28th U.S. president, who led America during World War I and was an advocate for democracy and world peace. Woolworth Building http://www.history.com/topics/woolworth-building Completed in 1913, the Woolworth Building was once the tallest building in the world, and became a model for later skyscrapers. World Trade Center http://www.history.com/topics/world-trade-center New York City's World Trade Center was a complex of buildings that was destroyed during the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. World War I http://www.history.com/topics/world-war-i From 1914 to 1918, the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary and Turkey) faced off against the Allied Powers (Great Britain, France, Russia, Italy, Japan and the United States) in a devastating international conflict that would later become known as World War I. World War I Officially Ends http://www.history.com/topics/world-war-i-officially-ends World War I officially came to an end on October 3, 2010, more than 90 years after an armistice ended the fighting, when Germany finally submitted the final payment of reparations that were required by the terms of the Versailles Treaty. World War II http://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii Discover the history of World War II, a global conflict that resulted in more deaths than any other war. Explore WWII facts, battles, photos, videos and more. World War II Memo Cracked by Allies Found http://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii-memo-that-duped-germans-found Volunteers at the former codebreaking center Bletchley Park have found a memo proving the success of the Allies' game-changing deception campaign during World War II. Wounded Knee http://www.history.com/topics/wounded-knee Wounded Knee, South Dakota was the site of two conflicts between Native Americans and the United States government, including an 1890 massacre of nearly 150 Sioux. Wilbur Wright http://www.history.com/topics/wright-brothers The Wright Brothers were American inventors and aviation pioneers who achieved the first powered, sustained and controlled airplane flight. Discover more about Wilbur and Orville Wright and the history of flight. Wyatt Earp http://www.history.com/topics/wyatt-earp Wyatt Earp was a frontier lawman and gambler whose feud with a local rancher in Tombstone, Arizona, led to the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral in 1881. Wyoming http://www.history.com/topics/wyoming The 44th U.S. state, Wyoming is known for its natural environment and national parks. Xian Tombs of Qin Dynasty http://www.history.com/topics/xian-tombs Discovered in 1974, the burial complex of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang (259 B.C.-210 B.C.), near the city of Xian, contained thousands of life-size, terracotta soldier figures likely intended to guard the emperor in the afterlife. Yalta Conference http://www.history.com/topics/yalta-conference The Yalta Conference called for Germany's unconditional surrender at the end of World War II. Yangtze River floods http://www.history.com/topics/yangtze-river-floods In August of 1931, torrential rains in southern China caused the Yangtze River to flood, killing 3.7 million people directly and indirectly over the next several months. Yellowstone National Park http://www.history.com/topics/yellowstone-national-park Yellowstone National Park, established by the U.S. Congress in 1872, was the first national park in the United States. Yellowstone National Park http://www.history.com/topics/yellowstone-national-park the oldest, one of the largest, and probably the best-known national park in the United States. It is situated in northwestern Wyoming and partly in southern Montana and eastern Idaho and includes the greatest concentration of geothermal features in the world. Yom Kippur http://www.history.com/topics/yom-kippur-history Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, is considered the most important holiday in the Jewish faith. Yom Kippur War http://www.history.com/topics/yom-kippur-war On October 6, 1973, hoping to win back territory lost to Israel during the third Arab-Israeli war, Egyptian and Syrian forces launched a coordinated attack against Israel on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Yosemite National Park http://www.history.com/topics/yosemite-national-park Yosemite National Park hosts around 3.7 million visitors a year and is known for its wide range of intact natural habitats and high biodiversity. Yosemite National Park http://www.history.com/topics/yosemite-national-park scenic mountain region in east-central California, U.S. It is situated about 140 miles (225 km) east of the city of San Francisco; Devils Postpile National Monument lies about 15 miles (25 km) to the east and Kings Canyon National Park about 40 miles (65 km) to the southeast. Yucatán http://www.history.com/topics/yucatan Mayans flourished and established one of their greatest cities, Chichén Itzá, in what is now Yucatán. Because it was relatively isolated from the rest of Mexico until recently, the state developed its own unique culture. Zacatecas http://www.history.com/topics/zacatecas La Toma de Zacatecas (The Taking of Zacatecas) was the largest and bloodiest battle of the Mexican Revolution. Once a center for silver mining, Zacatecas has earned a reputation as an agricultural center noted for its grains and sugar cane. It’s also a big producer of beverages, like rum, pulque and Zachary Taylor http://www.history.com/topics/zachary-taylor A hero of the Mexican War, Zachary Taylor was the nation's 12th president (1849-1850) and the last to represent the Whig Party; he died after barely a year in office.