History

The Supreme Court: the 'least dangerous' branch of government?
Today is the opening day of the Supreme Court's fall term. Harvard law and history professor Annette Gordon-Reed is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and this hour in a Chautauqua Lecture she explores the origins, and the evolution, of the nation's highest court.
What lasting impact has the Vietnam War had on neighboring countries of Cambodia and Laos?
Truth, Politics and Power: The United States and Iran
Some historical context for the troubled relationship between the United States and Iran. Former NPR host Neal Conan and several experts explore the conflict in this "Truth Politics and Power" feature.
George Washington's warning to future generations
Some warnings from President George Washington's "Farewell Address," about the forces that could destroy our democracy. In September 1796, as he became a private citizen, he worried about hyper-partisanship, excessive debt and entanglements in foreign wars.
Recipe for success at Al's Breakfast included pancakes and good humor
Al's Breakfast in Dinkytown has been in operation since 1950. After over three decades of consistent success, MPR reporter Dan Olson adventured into the crowded diner in 1986 to see what all the fuss was about.
Aspen Ideas Festival: The legacy of James Madison
"Constitution Day," marks the anniversary of the adoption of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787. James Madison is considered the "father of the Constitution," and Harvard Law professor Noah Feldman spoke about Madison's legacy at the 2017 Aspen Ideas Festival.
Whalen's return to the Lynx isn't the first comeback of her career
Guard Lindsay Whalen is back on the court after a hand injury had her sitting out several games. And it's not the first time that's happened to her.
An ex-Viking's second life in the schools
For this week's highlight from the archive, an interview with Randall McDaniel, the former Minnesota Viking.
Aspen Ideas Festival: When colorblindness renders me invisible to you
Former NPR host Michele Norris moderated a discussion about race, inequality and the future of democracy at this summer's Aspen Ideas Festival. Is opportunity and social mobility still possible in America?