Was Andrew Jackson Really a States’ Rights Champion?
On the 250 anniversary of Andrew Jackson's birth, a look at his squashing of the first great nullification crisis in American history.
The History of Outlawing Abortion in America
Abortion was first criminalized in the U.S. in the mid-19th century. A key argument was that too many white women were ending their pregnancies.
What Do Ex-Presidents Do? Ask John Quincy Adams.
Many are speculating about what former president Barack Obama will do in his retirement. Perhaps he will stay as politically involved as John Quincy Adams.
America’s State Secrets and the Freedom of Information Act
The Freedom of Information Act of 1966 (or FOIA) was the result of a struggle by Congress and private business for information from the executive branch.
The Constitution Most Americans Have Forgotten About
The Articles of Confederation set off the long-running feud between states' rights and Washington, a debate that still rages today.
The Bitter Controversy Over Nebraska’s State Capital
Lincoln or Omaha or... Neapolis? The fight over where to put the capital of Nebraska was much more heated than you may have imagined.
WWII and the First Ethical Hacker
Rene Carmille has been called the first ethical hacker for sabotaging the computerization of data about French Jews during World War II.
Bring Your Own Applause: What Donald Trump and Roman Emperor Nero Have in Common
A claque is a centuries-old showmanship technique that has been used by entertainers and politicians since the Roman Empire.
What Are Executive Orders Anyway?
Donald Trump's executive orders are coming fast and furious, but what exactly are they? And why are they the Presidential go-to tactic now?
What’s With All The Petitions?
The last clause of the First Amendment guarantees the right to "petition the Government for a redress of grievances." Where did this idea come from?