American Essence

How a Holocaust survivor’s memoir, "All but My Life," replaces bitterness with a legacy of love, gratitude, and American patriotism.

From patriotic poems to our Founding Father's thoughts, we can glean what it means to be a true American.

In ‘This Week in History,’ two young filmmakers met in Hawaii and began a collaboration to create one of America’s greatest film heroes.

Alfred’s youngest brother adds to the Newman dynasty with connections to the movies of Marilyn Monroe.

An elusive St. Louis entrepreneur and a revolutionary partnership transformed a crude hand accessory into baseball's most sentimental tool.

Researchers are exploring a ghostly realm hidden beneath the rippling surface of Seattle’s busy Lake Union. Using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), a team lead by ocean engineer and robotics specialist Phil Parisi has begun exploring and documenting dozens of ...

In this installment of “The Art of Liberty,’ we visit the patriot who gave us our first flag.

Some thrilling stories leave you filled with joy instead of dread, as these sisters-turned-co-hosts found out.

In this installment of ‘Profiles in History,’ a war hero turned mailman becomes the face of fighting early 20th-century crime.

The world's most beloved crayon has inspired creativity since the first box of eight rolled off the production line.

Lucy M. Long deliciously recalls the beloved fruit’s impact on the regional culture and economy.

In this installment of ‘Larger Than Life: Architecture Through the Ages,’ we visit a New York City cultural hub with outstanding 19th-century interiors.

In ‘This Week in History,’ personal tragedy and national compromise motivated an Ohio writer to pen the classic ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin.’

An eclectic array of instruments offers a glimpse into the musical life in a rising Republic.

In this installment of “The Art of Liberty,” we meet a daughter who followed in her mother’s footsteps.

Author and relationship coach Laura Doyle gives tips on how couples can stay connected for a long, healthy marriage.

Although little-known, Curtis's rise to power to the country’s second-highest executive office is a source of inspiration.

From learning barbecue to incorporating global flavors into her latest creations, barbecue champion Melissa Cookston is charting her own path.

I will say it: I love short ribs more than I like brisket. Each bite brings an explosion of unctuous beef goodness to the palate. Short ribs are an excellent dish to braise, and they seem to meld effortlessly with ...

Many people don’t like grilling fish as it’s very easy to over- or undercook it, have it stick to the grill, or cook unevenly. Most of these issues are easily handled, and with some preparation, you’ll love the extra flavor ...

I love a good saucy wing. This version takes some inspiration from south of the border and uses my adobo seasoning blend on the chicken wings. I don’t care for burn-your-mouth hot sauces, so I use a relatively mild one ...

In this installment of ‘Profiles in History,’ an American pilot becomes an ace in two theaters of war and earns the revered Medal of Honor.

A volunteer dog trainer shares inspiring stories of how her pups have become heroic service animals to those in need—and offered her healing in the process.

Benedict Arnold displayed remarkable grit in Quebec against a resurgent British army determined to crush America’s hopes for a 14th colony.

An orphan from Liberia found comfort in song, and, today, feels blessed to have a loving family in the American South.

Though later overshadowed by Mark Twain, Bret Harte helped establish the American West as fertile ground for literature.