Lauren Monsen

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Vice President Harris interacting with children in classroom (© Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

The United States is rich in languages

U.S. households speaking languages other than English are growing. Learn why this trend enriches both America and the English language.
Jessie Montgomery playing violin on stage (© Hiroyuki Ito/Getty Images)

Black composers: Shaping America’s music

A renowned pianist explores the contributions of Black American composers in the rarefied world of classical music.
Girl looking at valentine card (© Spencer Weiner/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images)

What do Americans give their valentines?

Love is in the air! Learn which Valentine's Day tokens are most popular in the U.S., and why they're given to those held dear.
Diptych of two women (Left: © Kim Van Oosten/Catholic Health Association. Right: Courtesy of Tanya Gould)

Survivors work to prevent human trafficking, aid victims

Increasingly, trafficking survivors' input is shaping public policies to combat human trafficking. Meet two survivors who are leading the way.
Antony Blinken wearing headphones and seated in front of microphone (State Dept.)

U.S. secretary of state’s favorite songs for ‘on the road’ or...

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is a music fan who loves both classic rock and newer sounds. Check out what he's been listening to in 2022.
Children along parade route reach up to touch puppet giraffe (© Sarah Reingewirtz/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News/Getty Images)

How Americans welcome the new year [photo gallery]

All across the United States, Americans greet the new year with parties, parades and other festivities, signaling a joyful, fresh start.
Illustration of baby wearing top hat and holding flowers (State Dept./D. Thompson)

Americans we lost in 2022

In 2022, we said farewell to many Americans whose contributions shaped our world. Here are a few of these notable figures.
Painting of seated and standing men looking at papers (© Shutterstock)

What does January 1 signify in Lincoln’s legacy?

Learn how the Emancipation Proclamation paved the way for abolishing slavery and why President Lincoln considered it his finest achievement.
Large White House Christmas tree on display in the Blue Room (© Patrick Semansky/AP Images)

First lady Jill Biden decorates White House ‘for the people’ [photo...

The White House's 2022 winter holiday theme is "We the People," with decorations reflecting hope, optimism and unity.