News | HISTORY

The 5 Closest Elections in US Presidential History

Some presidential elections have been decided by just a few thousand votes—or even a few hundred.

The Origins of the Five‑Day Work Week in America

A 40‑hour, five‑day work week is now standard for full‑time jobs in America, but that wasn’t true until the 1930s.

From Sinatra to Streisand: 100 Years of Celebrity Political Endorsements

For more than a century, movie stars, famous athletes and musicians have all lent their star power to support presidential campaigns.

How Beachwear Helped Pave the Way for Women Wearing Pants

Some of the earliest versions of socially acceptable women’s pants were worn by women vacationing on the beach.

The 7 Biggest Landslides in US Presidential History

These presidents (including one who later became very unpopular) arrived at the White House with overwhelming margins of victory.

We Were There: The 1968 Democratic Convention

Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin shares intimate—and harrowing—memories of the turmoil she and her husband witnessed that summer in Chicago.

How the Mafia Infiltrated American Labor Unions

Through extortion, bribery and embezzlement, mobsters made labor racketeering a major source of income after Prohibition.

7 Campaign Gimmicks Used by Presidential Candidates

From songs to toys to cigarette packs, presidential candidates have found creative ways to reach the public.

The Female Lawyer Who Ran for President—Before Women Could Vote

Belva Lockwood not only ran for president—twice—she was also the first female lawyer to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Who Were the Mafia’s ‘Five Families’?

In 1931, a Commission of crime families began running New York City rackets, initiating an era of colorful nicknames and violent power struggles.

What Is a Tariff?

Tariffs have been used to bring in revenue, protect domestic industries from foreign competition and cooperate or retaliate against other nations around the world.

The Real‑Life Olympic History Behind ‘Chariots of Fire’

Get the true story behind British track stars Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell winning gold at the 1924 Paris Olympics.