This week marks the birthday of Martha Graham, the most influential American dancer of the 20th century and mother of modern dance. Graham’s pioneering career had a monumental impact on American dance and performance that is still felt today and her legacy reminds us of how critical art is to the human experience.

March Madness: The Improbable Making Of An American Icon

On this day forty years ago, President Ronald Reagan was shot by would be assassin John Hinkley, Jr. after delivering a routine speech. While some blamed the “20-Year Presidential Curse” for the attempt on President Reagan’s life, the real circumstances surrounding the lead up to and aftermath of the event itself are perhaps more bizarre than an alleged presidential curse.

The Challenger Explosion

On this day, 29 years ago, the space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds after liftoff from Cape Canaveral, Florida, killing all seven crew members.