How romance novels—despite their decided lack of cultural clout—became big business for the publishing industry.

In a moment when scientists were working to fashion a credible identity for themselves, they had to decide how much showmanship was too much.

Rebellious teenagers thumbed their noses at Hitler with jazz music, wild dancing, and the greeting “Swing Heil.” But how serious was their resistance?

In the early 20th century, African American artists created work that expressed solidarity with Haiti--whether they had been there or not.

Why were there so many coups in Latin America?

We call futile victories "pyrrhic," after an ancient Roman battle. But that battle may have been misinterpreted--or had a different conclusion altogether.

Why did Pope Stephen VI go to such great lengths to destroy an enemy who was already dead?

An unexpected day off work and school can take on the trappings of a religious ritual.

The legacy of Kimpa Vita, a Kongolese Catholic mystic, was felt from the U.S. to Haiti.

Historians traditionally point to economic and social conditions as the primary causes for the Great Migration, but racist hate crimes played a role as well.