Uncategorized
New Course: 101 Failed Inventions of History!
From flying tanks and the Segway to LaserDisks and New Coke, learn all about the inventions that might have changed the world… then didn’t. […]
Uncategorized
American History
The Pentagon Building’s 9/11 Memorials
The Pentagon is one of the most iconic buildings in the Washington, D.C. area. On September 11, 2001, this grand military complex—the headquarters of the Department of Defense—was the site of a devastating terrorist attack. How did the Pentagon memorialize this traumatic national event? […]
American History
Who Designed and Built the U.S. Capitol Building?
The L’Enfant Plan put Congress on the tallest hill in the federal core of the city. The came the hard part: designing the Capitol Building itself. […]
Interactive Course Guides
The White House and the Presidency
Track the history and the dramatic fortunes of the White House, from its building, expansion, burning, reconstruction, and further expansions down to the present. Then visit the White House, beginning with the Oval Office and Cabinet Room and following the route of a White House tour. Also visit the parks adjoining the White House, and the Jefferson and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorials on the National Mall. […]
American History
Who Built the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.?
Today, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a landmark feature of the nation’s capital and a must-see spot for visitors from around the world wishing to honor the fallen soldiers from a contentious 20th-century war. But the story of how this iconic Washington, D.C. memorial came to be is a tale of trauma, solidarity—and controversy. […]
American History
What Happens Inside the U.S. Supreme Court?
For those of us outside the legal profession, the judicial branch may be the most opaque branch of the U.S. government—and the least understood. But it is by no means the least important. Here’s why it’s worth your time to come see the Supreme Court in action. […]
Interactive Course Guides
The Supreme Court and the Law of the Land
Study the founding and history of the Supreme Court, from its early era as an itinerant legal body to the completion of the Court building in 1935 under William Howard Taft. Tour this extraordinary monument, its interior features, court facilities, and artistic decoration. Then explore the Court in action, encompassing courtroom procedure and how cases are selected, adjudicated, and ruled upon. […]
Interactive Course Guides
The Nation’s Knowledge: Library of Congress
Visit the stunning premises of the world’s largest library, starting with the story of the library’s creation in the 18th century. Begin your tour with the monumental Jefferson Building, with its glorious Beaux Arts décor, followed by the remarkable facilities of the Adams and Madison Buildings. Also, visit the extraordinary Folger Shakespeare Library, and D.C.’s beloved Eastern Market. […]
Interactive Course Guides
The State, Treasury, and Justice Departments
Look into the origins and functions of the State Department, and visit the United States Diplomacy Center, as well as the stellar Diplomatic Reception Rooms. Continue with the Treasury Department’s Federal Reserve buildings, the beautiful Treasury Building, and the operations of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Then take in the fascinating history and headquarters of the FBI. […]
Interactive Course Guides
Veterans Memorials on the Mall
At the first of three iconic war memorials, learn the poignant story behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, and how this once controversial monument is now considered a masterpiece. From there, take account of the artistically conceived Korean War Veterans Memorial, and finally the World War II Memorial, and its moving tribute to the “greatest generation.” […]