On January first, Americans may relax at home or visit friends, relatives, and neigh­bors. New Year’s Day get-togethers are often informal, but generally there is plenty to eat and drink as loved ones and friends wish each other the best for the year ahead. Many families and friends watch television to­gether enjoying the Tournament of […]

George Washington, the first president of the United States of America, is often referred to as the “Father of Our Country.” Born February 22, 1732, in Virginia, he grew to be a natural leader—instru­mental in winning American inde­pendence from Britain in the Revo­lutionary War and creating a united nation out of a conglomeration of struggling […]

HRISTMAS is a joyful holiday that is celebrated by most people in the United States. Even though its origins are Chris­tian, it has become a holiday season that is celebrated in various ways by people of many faiths. The Christmas story comes from the Bible. In the story an angel ap­peared to shepherds and told […]

Of all the presidents in the history of the United States, Abraham Lincoln is probably the one that Americans remember with deepest affection. His child­hood experiences set the course for his character and motivation later in life. He brought a new level of hon­esty and integrity to the White House, living up to his nickname, […]

Decorations In preparation for Christmas, many people decorate their houses with colored lights and hang a wreath of ev­ergreen branches, or other Christmas decorations on the door. Inside the house people often decorate with bright red poinsettia plants. Most families also put up Christmas trees. In some parts of the USA there are Christ­mas tree […]