Open House: Archives

I've always been way too left-wing to be much of a flag-waving patriot. Not that Democrats don't love America, but - if I had to over simplify - there is just more of a culture of humility than pride on the left side. I always thought "Thankful to be an American" made a more sensible slogan than "Proud to be an American" - and I still think there is some merit to that. But this Memorial Day weekend I received an infusion of good old fashioned, star-spangled pride when, up late nights in a hotel, I watched the History Channel's new mini series "America, The Story of Us."

American History is not a topic that seems to appeal to most audiences. In school I'd go as far as to say that it was painful. Too bad. The way it was presented in this new production was interesting, informative and even inspiring. If you think you've heard more than enough about the Boston Tea party, Paul Revere or the Trans-Continental railroad - give this program a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised, certainly entertained, and you will probably learn a few interesting facts that you hadn't heard before.