Barbara Maranzani is a NY-based writer and editor, focusing on American and European history.
The first lady and activist came from drastically different backgrounds but bonded over their mutual belief in the power of education and desire to champion civil rights causes.
The vice president, primarily raised by her Indian mother, was taught to embrace her diverse heritage, creating values that paved the way for the boundary-breaking politician.
The 1961 Kennedy soiree, filled with Hollywood elite like Frank Sinatra, mirrored the racial tensions that plagued the nation.
The "Mother of Blues" takes center stage in August Wilson's tale about the African American experience in 1927.
While the queen welcomed her future daughter-in-law with open arms, their relationship quickly soured, thanks, in part, to Diana's crumbling marriage to Prince Charles.
The writer found constant inspiration from his hometown of Hannibal and the people he met along the way.
Many believe the Celtic hero was a real person, while others think his origin story is just a legendary tale that has evolved over time.
Putting their differences aside, the politicians worked together on the defense team for Levi Weeks, who was accused of murdering Elma Sands in 1799.
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The actor was beloved by millions, but he had to live a double life, concealing his sexuality to secure his career.
The pair's contentious relationship began in the early days of American politics and ended in a duel that took Hamilton's life.
From “Honest Abe” and “Tricky Dick” to the “Great Sphinx," these monikers revealed what the people really thought about these United States leaders.
Loveless since the start of their arranged union, the Russian rulers were ultimately torn apart by a coup that brought Catherine to the throne.
After the end of World War I, the collection writers and critics met at New York City’s Algonquin Hotel for a “10-year lunch” that epitomized the glamour and excitement of the decade.
As the second World War raged, then-Princess Elizabeth rallied to the cause and enlisted in the military, helping boost the morale of the British people.
One of the most famous figures in medical history, the nurse's groundbreaking achievements in handwashing, hygiene and sanitation helped revolutionize medicine.
For centuries, generations of royals have endured many ups and downs with their children.
The Italian dictator described "The Cardinal's Mistress" as “a novel for seamstresses and scandal.”
The writer helped the former president develop his best-selling memoirs before Grant's 1885 death.
The French Revolution tore the queen apart from her two surviving offspring.
Many believe the former British king lived an erratic existence due to ongoing, and sometimes undiscovered, health issues.
The musician's fluctuating financial status led many to believe he died a pauper.
'Ever thine. Ever mine. Ever ours.' Two centuries later, historians still haven't agreed on the identity of the woman who inspired the composer's famed lines.
Theories suggest the writer did not compose his famous works like 'Hamlet' and 'Julius Caesar.'
Having a friendly relationship with Adolf Hitler, many speculated that the Duke and Duchess of Windsor were involved in a plot to overthrow the British crown during World War II.