history
Author explores gratitude’s dark side — and how being grateful might still rescue us
For the author of a book on gratitude Diana Butler Bass has what might be a surprising admission: Gratitude didn’t come naturally to her. Bass published “Grateful,” her 12th book, five years ago. But before writing it, “I would not have considered myself a naturally grateful person,” she says. “I always struggled with cultivating gratitude, […]
National museum of LGBTQI+ history and culture proposed by Wisconsin congressman
WASHINGTON — Proposed federal legislation could add LGBTQI+ history and culture to the Smithsonian Institution’s museum tapestry. U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, a Wisconsin Democrat, introduced two bills in late October that would begin the process of creating a National Museum of American LGBTQI+ History and Culture. Both bills would need to be signed into law […]
WRAL TV sports anchor Chris Lea discusses the new documentary “Ghosts in the Stadium”
A fascinating new documentary from WRAL TV looks at the hidden and troubling histories of some iconic sports venues in the Carolinas. “Ghosts in the Stadium” explores the sobering legacy of white supremacy at Kenan Stadium at UNC Chapel Hill, Carter-Finely Stadium at NC State, Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte and Memorial Stadium at […]
Weekend humor from Celia Rivenbark: How often do you think of the Roman Empire?
I asked Duh Hubby the other day how often he thinks of the Roman Empire, and he said, “I dunno. Never?” Which is exactly the response I predicted. But turns out he’s the exception. TikTok’s latest stunt isn’t dumb or deadly. All you have to do, ladies, is ask the man in your life that […]
Teacher has passion for democracy, historical markers and students
Outspoken social studies teacher and historian Rodney Pierce has successfully submitted five applications to the state for historical markers commemorating Black historical figures, events and organizations. Pierce has opposed efforts by the state’s Republican-led General Assembly and others to restrict what he and his colleagues teach students about the nation’s history of racism. Pierce, who […]
Weekend humor from Celia Rivenbark: Are you smarter than an 8th grader? Not if you’re MTG
Quit picking on U.S. eighth graders for having the lowest scores in history and civics ever. Give ‘em a break. Heck, some of them are working late nights at McDonald’s in Kentucky WITH THEIR YOUNGER SIBLINGS. The recent handwringing about how little eighth graders know about history and civics is understandable, but the kids still […]
Bill would mandate history course, prescribe curriculum at UNC universities, community colleges
Should students at UNC System Schools and community colleges be required to take a course on history and government, irrespective of their majors? Should lawmakers be able to prescribe the curriculum for such a course, rather than campus leaders and faculty? Those are a couple of the thorny questions sparked by House Bill 96, one […]
NCSU Prof.Michael Schwalbe on efforts to stifle discussions of race and privilege in our schools
One of the top agenda items for Republican leaders at the General Assembly this year is legislation that would micromanage the teaching of U.S. history and discussions of race – mostly for the purpose of limiting discussion and assuring that white students in particular, aren’t made to feel guilty or uncomfortable. Unfortunately, as North Carolina […]
GOP bill to limit topics of discussion in public schools wins state House approval
Parents, Democratic lawmakers decry censorship and "chilling effect on education" A controversial bill that would restrict how the state’s public school teachers discuss race, gender and sexuality was approved by the state House by a 68-49 party line vote on Wednesday, and is now headed to the state Senate.
New book, panel at Duke University explore the politics of the Marvel film phenomenon
Like so many things, for good or ill, it started on Twitter. A whole host of political scientists from across the country had just seen 2019’s Avengers: Endgame and were discussing it online. But then, much of the world was. Upon release the film, a climactic point in the phenomenally successful Marvel Cinematic Universe of interconnected superhero films, had a worldwide opening of more than $1 billion. It would go on to become the then-highest grossing film of all time, making nearly $2.8 billion worldwide.
UNC Chapel Hill history professor William Sturkey
UNC Chapel Hill history professor William Sturkey on his deep concerns about the plans of university trustees to establish a new school on the campus devoted to advancing conservative ideology. Read Sturkey’s latest commentary: UNC Chapel Hill trustees misfire with rushed and ill-conceived plan to launch conservative school