This page offers a brief history of Dred Scott’s fight for his family’s freedom. Read the overview of Scott’s case and then explore the rest of the collection to learn more about how and why the Dred Scott decision came to be such a landmark case in American judicial history.
Medgar Evers was a civil rights activist who fought racial discrimination in many forms. His murder in 1963 sparked national outrage that helped increase support for legislation that led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Listen to this short piece about the lasting impact Evers’ life and work has had on his home state of Mississippi.
Pablo Neruda wrote poems about nature, but he his also famous for his poems about love, as well as many other subjects. Read this biography about the renowned poet’s career.
This companion website to a 2005 Library of Congress exhibit provides glimpses of the items that were displayed as well as background information on Whitman’s life, career, and legacy. Take a look at the “Leaves of Grass” section to learn more about the history surrounding one of America’s most influential books of poetry.
When a crisis occurs in a large building, it’s difficult to know what everyone should do and where they should go. This site from the Federal Emergency Management Agency provides guidance that can save lives.
Seeing people mistreat the American flag, whether intentionally or accidentally, evokes strong feelings. But what does U.S. law currently say about how the American flag should be treated? Legislative attorney John R. Luckey sets forth the official rules and applies them to specific situations.
In April 2013, Mars One launched its Astronaut Selection Program, taking the foundation one step closer to its eventual goal of establishing a human settlement on Mars. Explore the official Mars One site to learn more about the organization, its mission, and the risks and challenges involved in such a historic undertaking.
“Love locks” bearing names and messages can be found on bridges and other landmarks in cities across the world. But as this seemingly harmless trend has increased in popularity, it’s become a much bigger issue in cities such as Paris, where the structural integrity of bridges is being threatened by the weight of love.
There’s no question about the appeal of a good monster movie. But what is it about certain movie monsters that makes them such enduring stars? Listen to this story about Godzilla to learn more about one of cinema’s most legendary monsters.
After the recent passing of Maya Angelou, the media was flooded with tributes, personal stories, and other works meant to honor her and her legacy. This tribute comes from Clarence G. Newsome, President of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
