U.S. History

For decades, federal housing policy explicitly favored whites over blacks, likely worsening many of today's enduring wealth disparities.

Chris Calton recounts how the Confederate forces were defeated at Leetown—despite greatly outnumbering their Union opponents. 

After Grant pushes the Confederates back to Fort Donelson, the southern leaders must decide whether to attempt escape or surrender.

When I look back on my experience at the 32nd Precinct I see real “peace officers” at work. No SWAT raids, no armored vehicles. Just cops getting by with their wits, guts, and courage.

Chris Calton details Ulysses S. Grant's attack on Fort Donelson by land and water. 

The professional custodians of American views of history have always named the same presidents as "great." It's always the presidents who abused power frequently, and expanded government power the most.

Many states assumed to be "turning blue" actually get more migrants from red states than from blue states. It's also a bad idea to assume that everyone who moves from Illinois agrees with the median voter from Chicago.

Chris Calton recounts a victory that would give the Union access to the Confederate heartland—the capture of Fort Henry. 

Chris Calton details Ulysses S. Grant's early actions in the Civil War. 

Politicians say they need longer terms in office so they can "do more" while in office. That by itself is an argument for shorter terms and more frequent elections.