From High Country News, the idea of a "nation's park" was first conceived by artist and ethnographer George Catlin; and socialism and the West: This region was built on government subsidies and aid. Preserving America and a few secrets: The John Birch Society is passionate about following the Constitution, but not so much about divulging information. A review of Bath Massacre: America's First School Bombing by Arnie Bernstein. From Tradition, Family, and Property, a look at the cult of ugliness in America. The militarization of America: William Polk on how the Pentagon came to run Washington. Who were the Anasazi? The Navajo stake a controversial claim to an ancient legacy. What after all do Americans mean when they say they love "liberty"? A review of Cheerful Money: Me, My Family, and the Last Days of Wasp Splendor by Tad Friend. A review of The Death of "Why?": The Decline of Questioning and the Future of Democracy by Andrea Batista Schlesinger. Isabel Sawhill and Ron Haskins on 5 myths about our land of opportunity. For many people "rural" is synonymous with low incomes, limited economic opportunity, and poor schools; however, a recent study found that much of rural America is actually prosperous. Green acres is the place to be: The recession is inspiring more young families and singles to head back to the country. There’s no place like hme: Fewer Americans are relocating than at any time since 1962 — that's good news for families, communities and even the environment. From Vermont Commons, a look at how with secession timing is everything (and it's all about money).
