Head-Tilting History

Did you know that many of your classic childhood songs have historical roots? Nostalgic tunes such as “Yankee Doodle” and “Home on the Range” are not only catchy but reflect national attitudes during significant events in American history.

Against the Royal Navy's dominance, the United States turned to privateers who, though often criticized, wreaked havoc on the high seas, contributing significantly to the War of 1812.

If you’ve seen the movie Glory, you probably think you know the story of the 54th Massachusetts and its gallant assault against Fort Wagner in July 1863. Hollywood and history, however, don’t always match, especially when condensing such a complicated story to two hours on the silver screen.

Explore famed author Louisa May Alcott's life as a passionate Civil War nurse in Washington, D.C. and learn how her experiences shaped "Hospital Sketches," which laid the foundation for her later literary triumphs.

Who were the steeds carried those larger-than-life figures that history books will never forget, from Ulysses S. Grant to Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson?

Not all Civil War letters and photographs met the hands of their target recipients, but the Dead Letter Office offered a second-chance of uniting these materials with their intended.