Historic Figures

Casual Perfection

Source: Slate

Critic Meghan O’Rourke argues that publishing drafts of Elizabeth Bishop’s work reveals more of the American poet’s brilliance.

Why the Colonies Most Galvanizing Leader Never Became a Founding Father

Source: Smithsonian

Learn how James Otis, Jr., inpsired early revolutionary thinking with fiery speeches against British rule.

Double-Bind: Three Women of the Harlem Renaissance

Source: Academy of American Poets

Among the more well-known male writers and artists of the Harlem Renaissance existed women who also deserve to be recognized. Read about three writers whose work reflected being both black and female.

Dads who do chores bolster daughters’ aspirations

Source: The University of British Columbia

In a recent study, researchers at the University of British Columbia found that daughters who see their fathers contribute to household chores are more likely to have higher career aspirations.

Edward Curtis: Photographing the North American Indian

Source: Smithsonian Magazine

Nineteenth-century photographer Edward Curtis was known for his images of Native Americans. Watch this video that details the Smithsonian Institute’s recent acquisition of more than 700 of Curtis’s images.

In Search of Shakespeare: Timeline

Source: PBS

Shakespeare is possibly the most famous playwright of all time, but much of his life is shrouded in mystery. Explore the timeline of events that shaped Shakespeare’s world. Then, explore the “In Search of Shakespeare” site to learn more about the man and his works.

Sojourner Truth

Source: Biography.com

A former slave, Sojourner Truth was an ally of Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison in the fight for the abolition of slavery. Watch a mini-biography and read about this brave abolitionist and women’s rights advocate.