Chris Hedges: Requiem for America on the 4th of July

From Johnny Appleseed to Claudette Colvin: 5 surprisingly true American history facts

Five surprisingly true American history facts

Great Cinematic Odysseys to Prepare You for The Odyssey

From Preston Sturges and the Coen brothers to Martin Scorsese and John Ford, the Criterion Channel’s “Odysseys” series traces the enduring appeal of Homer’s epic in American cinema.

Is ‘Young Washington’ Historically Accurate?

The new movie Young Washington stunned Hollywood over the weekend, finishing in third place at the box office and proving that millions of Americans still have an appetite for patriotic dramas.Of course, many moviegoers left the theater not only inspired but also wondering: How much of the story was true? For sticklers of historical accuracy, Young Washington (PG-13) delivers, as its major plot points are firmly rooted in history.Here's a look at seven of the film's biggest historical moments – and how they compare to the historical record:Photo Credit: ©Angel/Wonder Project

Newton Emerson: Sinn Féin Irish unity Bill was a misjudgment, not a masterstroke

Our Saturday columnist offers his inimitable take on the stories making the news this week

Hollywood Movies Have Always Been About America. On the 250th July 4, Are They Still?

A few days ago, the New York Times ran a provocative listicle entitled “What Is the Definitive Movie About America?” Their writers came up with a couple of inspired choices, like “Dazed and Confused,” along with a handful of head-scratchers (“Disclosure Day”? “The Florida Project”?). Since no one asked, I thought I would offer five []