The Biggest Lie: The Prehistory of American Fascism, 1818-1915

Turns out, the pernicious ideology was homegrown.

Born Equal

By Akhil Reed Amar

Born Equal

Can an “originalist” view of birthright citizenship go either way?

Great American Presidents: The Twelve Who Transformed the Nation

A convincing scorecard for the Oval Office’s key inhabitants.

Deadwood

By Peter Cozzens

Deadwood

A rip-roaring read about that most iconic frontier town.

Tower Hill: A Plantation on the Edge of Rebellion

The seeds of revolt were sprouting before Nat Turner ever made a move.

A Glorious Fate: The Life and Legacy of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw

Recalling a Union officer fueled (at least partly) by a belief in abolition.

The Midnight Special: The Secret Prison History of American Music

A virtuoso account of jailhouse artistry and the pernicious racism behind it.