Humanities
Critical analysis and thought in the fields of history, law and philosophy
This Picture of Boston, Circa 1860, Is the World’s Oldest Surviving Aerial Photo
A sight from 2,000 feet, a view of 1860s Boston
April 03, 2013 |
By Colin Schultz
When New York City Tamed the Feared Gunslinger Bat Masterson
The lawman had a reputation to protect—but that reputation shifted after he moved East
April 03, 2013 |
By Gilbert King
A Georgia Town Is Requiring Gun Ownership. So Did the Founding Fathers.
A Georgia town may have just mandated gun ownership, but early Americans had the same idea back in 1792
April 02, 2013 |
By Colin Schultz
Dave Brubeck’s Son, Darius, Reflects on His Father’s Legacy
As a global citizen and cultural bridge-builder, Dave Brubeck captivated the world with his music, big heart and a vision of unity
April 02, 2013 |
By Joann Stevens
How Crisco Went From Cryst to Disco
The American History Museum covers all things grease for its April Fool's Day conference open to the public
April 01, 2013 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Kon-Tiki Sails Again
A new film recreates the epic voyage—and revives the controversy over its legendary leader, Thor Heyerdahl
April 2013 |
By Franz Lidz
America’s Got a Case of Souvenir Mania
A new book from a Smithsonian curator looks at the culture and business of memorabilia
April 2013 |
By Paul Bisceglio
Michael Pollan, World War II and More Recent Books Out This Month
Read about the transformation of food and what happens to it once its in the digestive system
April 2013 |
By Chloë Schama
How the DC-3 Revolutionized Air Travel
Before the legendary aircraft took flight, it took 25 hours to fly from New York to Los Angeles
April 2013 |
By Kathleen Burke
The Big Dilemma Facing Doctors Without Borders
The non-governmental organization concedes it sometimes pays a moral price to save lives
April 2013 |
By Guy Gugliotta
Where Was the Birthplace of the American Vacation?
First in rustic tents and later in elaborate resorts, city dwellers took to the Adirondacks to explore the joys of the wilderness
April 2013 |
By Tony Perrottet
Remembering the Last Great Worldwide Sailing Expedition
An 1838 journey pushed back the borders of the unknown
April 2013 |
By Michael Ruane
The United States Isn’t the Only Country Asking the Gay Marriage Question
The U.S. isn't the only nation struggling with the gay marriage issue. Here are where the debate stands in other countries around the world
March 29, 2013 |
By Rose Eveleth
Events March 29-31: Parasitic Wasps, Joseph Henry and Victorian Portraits
This weekend, learn about wasps that live inside their prey, meet Smithsonian's first secretary from 1846 and see living rooms from 150 years ago
March 28, 2013 |
By Paul Bisceglio
Butterflies, Baseball and Blossoms: Tours for Your Spring Vacation
Two custom tours come fully loaded with insider information, digital postcards and step-by-step directions
March 27, 2013 |
By Leah Binkovitz
On the Menu This Easter in Newfoundland: Seal Flipper Pie
This breaded pie made from seals has been consumed during the Lenten season since 1555
March 27, 2013 |
By K. Annabelle Smith
After 195 Years, Georgia Is Still Complaining About Its Border With Tennessee
Georgia, again, wants to move its border a mile to the north
March 26, 2013 |
By Colin Schultz
