A musician performs at a celebration marking 50 years of Alaska statehood. He stands in front of a mock-up of the Anchorage Times front page from July 1958 announcing the success of Alaska's bid for statehood. Alaska formally became the 49th U.S. state January 3, 1959.
As he prepares to assume office, President-elect Obama is busy selecting his key advisers and conferring with Bush Administration officials. The result is an orderly transfer of power from one presidential administration to another - a hallmark of U.S. democracy.
Each year, U.S. high school students spend thousands of hours helping others. For example, in the Key Club, active at 5,000 schools, students plan and carry out volunteer projects. In 2008, Virginia’s Harrisonburg High School collected 1,200 pairs of shoes for people in need.
The United States congratulates Bangladesh on its December 28 elections that show “the people’s desire to see democracy restored as well to have a voice in their future.”
As Burma marks its 61st anniversary of independence from British rule January 4, the Bush administration hopes the Burmese soon will enjoy freedom and democracy.
President-elect Barack Obama will not take office until January 2009, but his work already has begun.
Addressing the world's health challenges requires coordination across many areas.
Americans recount the paths they took to find their life’s work and what they learned along the way.
Students at Maine’s College of the Atlantic strive to ensure a healthy planet for future generations.
Many people have fought against unjust policies, often at personal risk.
Agricultural development boosts economic growth and reduces poverty all over the world.
The 1948 U.N. declaration has improved the lives of individuals worldwide.
America.gov's resident scientist blogs about leading-edge discoveries in science.
Learn more: World Economy Turns on U.S. Consumer Behavior, and It Is Changing
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