Issue


Featured Articles

Have We Found the “Lost Colony”?

Author: Scott Dawson

What happened to the first English colonists in North America, who supposedly disappeared without a trace? Our recent archaeological discoveries may have solved the riddle.

The Enigma of Jimmy Carter

Author: Jonathan Alter

Critics saw him as weak, but in his one term in office Carter had significant achievements in foreign affairs and environmental and energy policy.

Marquette and Jolliet's Excellent Adventure

Author: Mark Walczynski

In 1673, a Jesuit missionary, a fur trader, and a small group of canoe men traveled two thousand miles from what is now upper Michigan down to Arkansas and back. 

The O'Learys and the Great Chicago Fire

Author: Carl Smith

People who know nothing else about Chicago’s Great Conflagration have heard of Mrs. O’Leary and her famous cow. But the disaster's real origins are more complicated. 

"This Is London": Murrow During the Blitz

Author: Bob Edwards

Edward R. Murrow’s radio broadcasts from London, aired live while Nazi bombs fell around him, are classics of journalism – and literature. 

Laura Ingalls Wilder, Pioneer Girl

Author: John E. Miller

A historian looks at the distinctive Midwestern identity of Wilder and her "Little House on the Prairie" books.

The ”Holy Grail” of Broadcast Journalism

Author: Gil Klein

Historic microphone used by Edward Murrow for London broadcasts to be loaned to the National Press Club 

Upon Starved Rock

Author: Mark Walczynski

Now a popular state park, the unassuming geological feature along the Illinois River has served as the site of centuries of human habitation and discovery.  

Thanksgiving Dinner During The Revolution

Author: The Editors

A menu for a 1779 New England Thanksgiving included dishes from turkey and venison to pumpkin pie.