The Territorial Expansion of the United States: A People’s History

a map of the US during the first half of the 19th century illustrates the territorial expansion of the United States

How was the United States able to expand westward during its early history? What was the cost? In his book A People’s History of the United States, historian Howard Zinn discusses the country’s economic and territorial expansion during the first half of the 19th century. He focuses on how it led to the displacement of American Indians and the Mexican-American War. Keep reading to understand the territorial expansion of the United States from Zinn’s perspective.

A People’s History of Reconstruction After the Civil War

freed slaves after the American Civil War illustrate the history of Reconstruction

How did the government originally intend to redistribute land and wealth seized in the South after the Civil War? What role did Northern Republicans play in developing Southern Black communities? What challenges did freed slaves face? After the American Civil War, Reconstruction sought to address issues of wealth, racial equality, and freed slaves’ rights. Initially, Reconstruction showed promise. Ultimately, the progress that was made was undone. Continue reading for a history of Reconstruction after the Civil War, according to historian Howard Zinn.

A People’s History of the Civil War (Howard Zinn)

Union troops and flag on a battlefield illustrate a people's history of the Civil War in America

What contributed to the outbreak of the US Civil War? What role did racism play in both the military and society? With whom did American Indian tribes align themselves? The US Civil War was a devastating conflict. The poor suffered the most, with Free Blacks and escaped slaves playing a pivotal role despite facing racism in the North. American Indian tribes strategically aligned with different sides for territorial security and political advantage. Read more to get a people’s history of the Civil War, according to historian Howard Zinn.

Legislation for Online Safety for Kids Faces Obstacles

A child sitting on her bedroom floor recording a video on her phone for social media

What’s the holdup over legislation to bolster child safety online? What concerns do tech giants have about potential legislation? Despite growing outrage over tech giants’ failure to address child exploitation on social media platforms, federal legislation to tackle the issue has stalled in the US Senate for years. The delay has been caused by tech lobbyists, competing legislative priorities, and the challenge of balancing parental concerns with children’s rights. Below we’ll dive into what the opponents and advocates of legislation for online safety for kids say.

The Socialist Challenge: A History of Socialism in America

woman holding an American (US) flag and a flag with a hammer and sickle illustrates the history of socialism in America

What’s the history of socialism in America? What have socialists aimed to advance, and why haven’t they been more successful? In his book A People’s History of the United States, Howard Zinn delves into American socialism, tracing its growth and impact. The Socialist Party of America promoted workers’ rights and government regulation but faced challenges as it pushed for collective ownership. Keep reading to learn about “the Socialist Challenge” according to Howard Zinn.

China-US Relations Today: Insights From NPR News Now

Flags of the United States and China side by side, representing China-US relations today

What’s the state of China-US relations today? Is there conflict? China-US relations today are characterized by tension and competition, with each country trying to limit the influence of the other. A recent meeting between leaders may be a building block for a more peaceful future, but conflict remains. Here’s more on the relationship between these superpowers, from a recent report on NPR News Now.

Ukraine’s Drone Attacks on Russia (The Daily Podcast)

military drone with missiles flying over a mountainous area representing Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russia

How does Ukraine’s secretive drone program aim to counter Russian aggression? What are the key concerns regarding the potential escalation of conflict resulting from Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russia itself? An episode of The Daily podcast dived into the bold and secretive world of Ukraine’s drone warfare initiative as it ventures into Russian territory. The discussion explored themes of adaptation, psychological impact, and global implications. Continue reading for a summary of the episode, along with important context, perspectives worth considering, and recommendations for further reading.

How Congress Is Working to Avoid a Government Shutdown

Capitol building in Washington DC where the United States Congress works to avoid a government shutdown

How is Congress going to avoid a government shutdown? What are the consequences of a shutdown if it does happen? To avoid a government shutdown, Congress is working on bipartisan funding bills to keep services running and federal employees paid. However, some critics argue that these temporary funding bills are insufficient for addressing the greater issue of overspending. Read this summary of a snippet from NPR News Now on the potential shutdown.

The Great Depression and the New Deal: A People’s History

A poor American family holding a “Job Wanted” in the street sign illustrates history of the Great Depression and the New Deal

What’s the history of the Great Depression and the New Deal? Did the New Deal truly solve the problems caused by the Depression? Howard Zinn analyzes the Great Depression and the New Deal, highlighting the surge in labor unrest and activism. Despite the introduction of social programs, the New Deal ultimately favored elite interests and failed to address racial issues, particularly the ongoing neglect of Black Americans. Read more to learn more about this historical perspective.