American stage actress and director Antoinette Perry. (Credit: CSU Archives / Everett Collection)

The rumble scene from the stage production of 'West Side Story,' 1957. (Credit: Hank Walker/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)

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HISTORY

In the early 20th century, America was flexing its economic and political muscle on the international stage. The era was defined by the temperance movement, Progressive-era activism, the sinking of the Titanic and World War I.

Early 20th Century U.S.

Art history tells the complex story of human civilization through art, literature and design. It ranges from prehistoric art of the Neolithic period through Renaissance masterpieces, Impressionism, Modernism, the Bauhaus and contemporary art.

Art, Literature and Film History

1957

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1886

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Explore the wars, battles, leaders, civilizations, regimes, prominent figures and major events from the continent that encompasses 2 percent of the Earth’s surface. From Stonehenge to the Great Awakening to the French Revolution to the rise and fall of Communism in Russia, see how Europe’s often tumultuous history unfolded.

Theater

Stories

‘West Side Story’ Was Originally About Jews and Catholics

Who Are the Tonys Named After?

Where did the phrase “in the limelight” come from?

This Day in History

Sydney Opera House opens

Verdi’s first opera opens

“West Side Story” opens on Broadway

Radio City Music Hall opens

“Madame Butterfly” premieres

Folies Bergère stages first revue