The spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama, has turned 90. He celebrated his birthday on Sunday.

Black Americans’, our’ relationship to this annual holiday has always been fraught. In 1852, nearly a century after the ...

For many, the American flag represents freedom and national pride — but some argue it’s taken on a role more like a religious ...

They are caricatures, symbols of the European-American narrative that ignores the genocide, disease, and cultural devastation brought to our communities.

The Long and Fascinating History of Raccoons in North American Culture, From Symbols to Pets to Dinner In the relationship between humans and raccoons, the black-masked mammals have played many roles ...

The Long and Fascinating History of Raccoons in North American Culture, From Symbols to Pets to Dinner In the relationship between humans and raccoons, the black-masked mammals have played many roles ...

New ‘Golden Age’ We can expect President Trump to use cultural symbols that echo the goals of his presidency and, not coincidentally, boost his business brand.

Native Pop!, a new exhibit that explores the role of Indigenous people have played in pop culture, opened at the Newberry Library on March 20, 2025. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune) ...

Uncover the fascinating history of how the Pentagon rose from paper to power in record time during World War II. Born out of urgency and vision, it’s now a symbol of American military might ...

Explore 15 American cultural traits that unite citizens across political divides, from tipping practices to sports fanaticism and the enduring American optimism ...

Can solar power avoid Trump’s culture wars? The industry is rebranding itself as a symbol of American "energy dominance." Susan Walsh / AP Photo Kate Yoder Senior Staff Writer Published Feb 25, 2025 ...

More by Max Springer This article was originally published with the title “What’s in a + Sign?” in Scientific American Magazine Vol. 332 No. 5 (May 2025), p. 83 ...