U.S. Congressional Serial Set

The United States has a dark history regarding its immigration policies, including a spate of outright racist immigration restrictions that curtailed—or completely eliminated—influx of immigrants from certain countries around the world. One example of these laws was the Chinese Exclusion Act,[1] which restricted immigration from China for decades after its passage in 1882.

In the early 1800s, the United States was a lot smaller, and Mexico was a lot larger. But when America’s pursuit of Manifest Destiny collided with Mexican interest, all out war broke out, leading to the Mexican-American War. The conflict only lasted two years, but it would shape the future of both of these neighbor nations.

Today, one can easily get from New York City to Los Angeles in the span of a few hours. So it’s hard to imagine the days when traveling across the country didn’t take hours, or days, but rather months. Horses and boats are not the most efficient means of travel, but they are all Americans had—until the railroads. One particular railroad, the first transcontinental railroad, transformed America forever. In this edition of Secrets of the Serial Set, we look at how this feat was accomplished—and what it meant for the country—especially in light of the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

We all know the story of the famous sinking of the Titanic, but it was the sinking of a different ship, the U.S.S. Maine, that helped to spur an all-out war between two nations: the United States and Spain. The who, how, and why of the sinking of the Maine remains debated among historians and scientists, but one thing is for sure: it was a catalyst for the Spanish-American war.

November is National Native American Heritage Month, and with Thanksgiving quickly approaching, we are reminded of the rich history and culture of the indigenous peoples of North America, as well as of the often brutal and destructive treatment they have received from the white people who have overtaken their land.

Aaron Burr, vice president to Thomas Jefferson and infamously known as the man who killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel, was charged with treason in 1807. Though found not guilty, Burr’s actions and the subsequent trial ruined his political career and reputation. Let’s dive into the drama in this month’s Secrets of the Serial Set edition.

An exploration of the Battle of Wounded Knee, which is now widely referred to as the Wounded Knee Massacre to acknowledge the gunning down of more than 150 indigenous people, including women and children.

Discover how the Lincoln-Douglas debates became public attractions that drew crowds of thousands of people and helped shape politics for decades to come.

Uncover the story behind one of the most famous gifts ever given to the United States of America: the Statue of Liberty. Perhaps one of the most recognized and celebrated symbols of freedom, the Statue of Liberty has spent nearly 150 years gracing what is now called Liberty Island in New York City.

A consideration of the origins and evolution of the American flag, beginning with the Colonial Era and Revolution and ending with the two World Wars.

A dive into the great debate about Puerto Rico’s legal status. Featuring the discovery of the island during the Exploration Age, fight over the island during the Spanish-American War, and ultimate U.S. rule.