U.S. History
All the major chapters in the American story, from Indigenous beginnings to the present day.
World History
History from countries and communities across the globe, including the world’s major wars.
Eras & Ages
From prehistory, though antiquity and into the 21st century, all of history’s biggest chapters.
Culture & Tradition
The stories behind the faiths, food, entertainment and holidays that shape our world.
Science & Innovation
The pivotal discoveries, visionary inventors and natural phenomena that impacted history.
Find out why Christmas is celebrated on December 25.
The U.S. Air Force tracks Santa each year—a tradition born from a child’s misdialed call to the Continental Air Defense Command.
From millions of homes worldwide to the White House, the Christmas tree is a tradition that owes its popularity in part to a popular British queen.
Though Christmas happens once a year, candy canes are manufactured all year long.
In this video, learn about the history of Santa Claus and his real-life inspiration, St. Nicholas.
Get the facts on the tradition of Christmas carols, and find out how "Jingle Bells" came about.
The celebration of Christmas as we know it today stems from the traditions of several different cultures.
From Star Wars action figures to the iPhone, every decade has had a "must have" Christmas gift.
Today's Christmas celebrations combine secular and religious traditions.
In some parts of Europe, people still celebrate Christmas customs based on long-standing folk legends.
How one misplaced phone call led to the military keeping close tabs on Santa and his reindeer.
