History

Ask a 'sotan: How did George Hormel, grandfather of Spam, get to Minnesota?
Hormel, the company that brought the world Spam (the eating kind) and other meaty meals, makes its home in Austin, Minn. The writings of a young George Hormel reveal just why this international food giant ended up here.
African American Studies celebrates 50 years at the U of M
This year marks the 50-year anniversary of the start of the African American Studies department at the University of Minnesota. The University established the department in 1969, but only after pressure and protests from black student activists.
On Pearl Harbor Day, a documentary about patriotism
What makes us loyal to a nation? What motivates people to serve their country and make sacrifices for something bigger than ourselves?
Steven Pinker on the importance of science and reason
Steven Pinker speaks about his newest book, "Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism and Progress."
What educators need to know about teaching Thanksgiving
Potlucks and school plays are fun ways to learn about the first Thanksgiving. But the holiday isn't a celebration for everyone and navigating that nuance can be difficult for some educators.
Obama chief of staff Denis McDonough on values learned at St. John's
Stillwater, Minnesota native Denis McDonough was President Barack Obama's chief of staff and said a good chief of staff needs to know history, have some perspective and tell the president the hard truth.
Doris Kearns Goodwin on 'Leadership in Turbulent Times'
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of "Leadership in Turbulent Times."
Durenberger and Sturdevant: 'When Republicans Were Progressive'
An event hosted by longtime MPR host Gary Eichten. His guests were former Republican U.S. Senator Dave Durenberger and writer Lori Sturdevant, who've co-written a new book titled, "When Republicans Were Progressive."
Heather Cox Richardson on the history of the Republican Party
Heather Cox Richardson says the principles, and the contradictions, of the Republican Party reflect the principles of America: equality of opportunity, equality under the law, and protection of property.