THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
The Executive Order: A History of Its Rise and Slow Decline
President George Washington was the first to issue proclamations or executive orders. Their use peaked under Franklin Roosevelt, but they have been used fewer times in recent presidencies. Will Biden reverse the trend?
THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
From Washington to Trump: What Is Dereliction of Duty?
When presidents take the oath of office, they are expected to protect America against attack. But what about pandemics and economic depressions? Here’s a brief history of how presidents have handled different threats.
THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
As Trump’s Trial Nears, Here’s a History of Unusual Impeachments
Next week the U.S. Senate will begin its second impeachment trial of President Trump, who has already left office. A look back at what has happened in previous trials sheds some light on what might happen next week.
February 3, 2021
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THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
What History Tells Us about President-Elect Biden’s Cabinet
His appointments are set to break barriers and establish new precedents when it comes to diversity. A look back at past cabinets shows how norms and customs have been slow to change.
January 13, 2021
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Future in Context
The Strange History of the Office of the Vice President
For more than two centuries, the vice president has held little power, despite the position’s prominence. That may be changing, but the story of the No. 2 job in America is full of historical quirks.
December 8, 2020
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THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
History Teaches Us Election Delays Are Nothing New
Worried we may have to wait to find out whether Biden or Trump won? In 1800, election results were delayed for months. And don’t forget 2000, when legal battles prolonged the final results until Dec. 12.
October 28, 2020
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THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
President Washington and the Character of the First Supreme Court
Trump's nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacancy left by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg reflects a long history of presidents' efforts to define the Supreme Court, beginning with George Washington.
October 1, 2020
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THE FUTURE OF What’s Happening Now
James Monroe and the Pandemic You Don’t Know About
Before he was our fifth president, Monroe was Virginia’s governor at a time when yellow fever was deadly and hard to control. Setting aside ideology, he prevented a health crisis despite his disdain for strong government.
September 4, 2020
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