The Slow Vanishing of Mao Zedong

Today’s post comes from Callie Belback from the National Archives History Office. Among the 20th century’s most famous political leaders, Mao Zedong still fascinates fellow politicians, scholars, historians, and students. He was the founder of the People’s Republic of China, ideological leader of Maoism, revolutionary, and Chairman of the Chinese Communist Party.  Exterior view of … Continue reading The Slow Vanishing of Mao Zedong

Facial Hair Friday: Fidel Castro

Famous for his long and bushy beard he grew during his time as a guerrilla rebel fighter, Fidel Castro’s beard became a badge of honor and later a symbol of the triumph of the revolution. Today’s post comes from Callie Belback from the National Archives History Office. Russian Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin and Cuban Prime Minister … Continue reading Facial Hair Friday: Fidel Castro

JFK’s Cold War Calculations

On April 20, 1961, exactly three months after his inauguration, President John F. Kennedy addressed the American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE) regarding the Bay of Pigs invasion. In his speech, Kennedy addressed one of the most crucial decisions of his presidency—his choice not to provide air cover for the 1,400 men of the Cuban … Continue reading JFK’s Cold War Calculations