History lessons is a grouping of historical stories and tidbits. The topics range from the American Civil War through interesting items from around the world. Please use the comments area to ask questions and make suggestions for future topics.
After Norman Rockwell, James Montgomery Flagg might be the best-known popular painter of the 20th century. Given his name, it’s no surprise that his artwork contained so many images of bright stars and broad stripes. If you can picture Uncle Sam pointing his finger at you, you know Flagg’s most famous work – and maybe… continue
Most Americans know that Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Many would be able to cite Irving Berlin as the composer of “God Bless America.” But few citizens can identify the author of “The Pledge of Allegiance,” which will be recited often on Flag Day, June 14, and on the Fourth… continue
If every American sings loudly enough, Canadians and Mexicans might be able to hear “The Star-Spangled Banner” on Flag Day. That’s because every American is being invited to sing the National Anthem at 4 p.m. EDT on June 14. In addition, “The Star-Spangled Banner” — both the original manuscript of the words and the original… continue
Seventy years ago, perhaps the most significant invasion in world history took place – and flags went along. The event was D-Day, June 6, 1944, when Allied forces hit beaches on the coast of France with the intention of not stopping their progress until they ended Nazi Germany’s reign over Europe. Newspapers of June 6… continue
This weekend, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, military personnel will place more than 275,000 flags in front of grave markers. The ceremony, known as “flags in,” will be imitated throughout the United States. Memorial Day, May 26 this year, is a chance to remember lost veterans, especially those who died in combat, as… continue