America Explained

Exploring America’s history and how it impacts today’s society – from the Founding Mothers to what marijuana tells us about States’ rights

Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, carved into South Dakota’s Black Hills, features Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. It symbolizes pivotal moments in American history and leadership.

Citizenship: World War II

Those who take the U.S. Citizenship Test must understand the reasons behind the United States’ involvement in World War II, why the U.S. was initially neutral, and what happened as a result of Imperial Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

First Ladies

The role of the First Lady of the United States has changed over the years. These women have shaped the White House as well as the nation.

Separation of Powers

The U.S. federal government consists of three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial. Each one has a distinct role, ensuring a balance of power that protects the institution.

Immoderation: Huey Long

Huey Long’s rise from rural Louisiana to U.S. Senator was marked by immoderation, as promises turned to power grabs and corruption, ultimately leading to his downfall.

The Emancipation Proclamation

Issued by U.S. President Abraham Lincoln almost three years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation played a crucial role in ending slavery across the United States and defining the principles that still govern the country today.

Hubris: Aaron Burr

Aaron Burr’s ambition led him from political prominence to infamy. Fueled by hubris, he dueled Hamilton and plotted treason, showcasing the perils of unchecked pride.

Daily Life in the Colonies

From bustling cities to quiet farms, colonial life was filled with the diverse experiences of European settlers, Indigenous communities, and the enslaved.

Prudence: Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson’s prudence in orchestrating the Louisiana Purchase, despite constitutional concerns, doubled the size of the U.S., securing its position on the global stage.

Federal and State Powers

The U.S. Constitution divides power between the federal government and states, granting specific national powers and reserving others to states via the 10th Amendment, with federal laws generally overriding state laws.