History

How Death Valley Got Its Sinister Name

They don’t call it Death Valley for nothing, but anyone who’s been to this arid basin in Southern California will be surprised to learn that the imposing name has nothing to do with the area’s (in)famous heat.

8 of the Newest Countries on Earth

The United Nations recognizes 195 countries across the globe. But geopolitics are always changing, which occasionally results in the creation of new independent states. Here are some of the world’s newest countries and how they came to exist.

History
6 Must-See Battle Sites for U.S. History Buffs

From the great battlefields of the Revolutionary War to the places where the Civil War began and ended, the United States is peppered with historic battle sites. They each have played a pivotal role in the nation’s history and stand as a true testament to the resilience of the soldiers who fought there.

History
What’s Inside the Secret Chamber at Mount Rushmore?

Over 2 million people visit majestic Mount Rushmore every year. But what many visitors don’t realize is that there’s a hidden, inaccessible room built into the rocks behind President Lincoln’s head. Find out why it exists and what’s inside the secret chamber at Mount Rushmore.

History
The Mystery of the Moai Statues and Other Secrets of Easter Island

Isolated in the Pacific Ocean some 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile, Easter Island is perhaps one of the world’s most enigmatic destinations. Its unusual giant Moai statues that dot the island intrigue historians and beguile curious visitors, but they only scratch the surface of the island's fascinating history. Discover seven interesting facts you might not know about Easter Island.

History