Tag: Cuba News

Cuba hit with nationwide blackout as US pressure continues

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Cuba suffered a nationwide blackout on Monday as it faces an ongoing energy crisis, worsened by an effective US blockade on fuel shipments. Cuba’s energy ministry said the national electrical grid had suffered a total collapse. The country’s grid operator said it is investigating the cause. Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy said officials were working to restore energy and that they’ve already activated emergency “microsystems” that power vital services. Cuba has experienced several nationwide blackouts over the past few years, as the country’s aging electricity infrastructure struggles to meet demand. The country’s power crisis worsened this year after the US forced Cuba’s main suppliers to stop oil shipments. In March, it had at least two total blackouts within a week. On Monday, Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel criticized the US for blocking fuel imports on X, claiming Washington is trying to induce “a social explosion through asphyxiation.”

The island’s energy crunch has strained essential services, including education, transportation and medicine. Fresh sanctions by the US have also further deteriorated the Cuban economy and prevented many tourists from visiting the island. The US says the economic stranglehold is meant to force the Cuban government to pry open the island’s hermetic political system and allow direct foreign investment. Last month, Cuba’s National Assembly approved a broad set of reforms aimed at opening its economy. The foreign trade minister told CNN that the measures were not passed in response to external pressure. A spokesperson for the US State Department described the reforms as “modest, long overdue and ultimately superficial smoke signals” from the government. US and Cuban officials have held multiple talks over the past few weeks. In May, CIA Director John Ratcliffe met Cuba’s spy chiefs in Havana, and the commander of US Southern Command met with senior Cuban military officials on the perimeter of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay.

The US has accused Cuban officials of hosting Russian and Chinese listening posts on the island and thwarting US interests in the region. Cuba denies the claims and has pushed back against the US. When CNN asked Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Oscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga about the island’s humanitarian crisis, he accused the US of collective punishment, saying: “What is happening today against our people is a genocide.”

Source: Cuba hit with nationwide blackout as US pressure continues | CNN

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
Ephesians 1:7

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China Is About To Lose Its Cuban Military Bases

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Friends of Havana blame the U.S., but the Trump administration had to act before China turned the island into a military bastion. Declassified intelligence showed that Chinese signals-intelligence collection facilities had been operating in Cuba since at least 2019. “China and Cuba are negotiating to establish a new joint military training facility on the island, sparking alarm in Washington that it could lead to the stationing of Chinese troops and other security and intelligence operations just 100 miles off Florida’s coast.” —The Wall Street Journal, June 20, 2023. President Donald Trump acted before the Chinese could base missiles in Cuba.

Source: China Is About To Lose Its Cuban Military Bases | CDN

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD.
Isaiah 55:8

Cuba signals possible compensation for seized U.S. properties, but Cuban Americans remain skeptical

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Havana may pay billions in claims tied to properties seized after the 1959 revolution — but questions remain over who qualifies and whether payments would ever materialize.

Source: Cuba signals possible compensation for seized U.S. properties, but Cuban Americans remain skeptical – CBS Miami

“Can anyone hide himself in secret places, So I shall not see him?” says the LORD; “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the LORD.
Jeremiah 23:24

Why Many Cuban Exiles Support Trump and the Extreme Right?

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In the heart of Miami’s Little Havana, the echoes of a painful past still shape the political beliefs of a fanatically loyal voting bloc.

Having lived through the trauma of a socialist revolution that stripped some of them of property, freedom, and homeland, many see any hint of leftist ideology as anathema. While Democrats promote social programs and progressive policies… 

Source: Why Many Cuban Exiles Support Trump and the Extreme Right? – Havana Times

But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises.
Hebrews 8:6

In Cuba, all-night lines for 5 gallons of gas as residents grapple with shortages

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Lines to get some fuel or to buy potatoes — for those who can afford it — are scenes of daily life in Havana.

Source: In Cuba, all-night lines for 5 gallons of gas as residents grapple with shortages

For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?
Mark 8:36

Cuba holds pastor’s 16-year-old son captive amid crackdown

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A 16-year-old boy whose father leads an independent Christian church in Cuba remains in state custody after security authorities detained him during a wave of unrest and arrests

Source: Cuba holds pastor’s 16-year-old son captive amid crackdown | World

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Luke 19:10

Pastor arrested in Cuba after uploading Bible teaching to YouTube

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Police arrested an Evangelical pastor in the Matanzas region of Cuba after recording and uploading a Bible teaching video to his YouTube channel He said the arrest was part of a pattern of

Source: Pastor arrested in Cuba after uploading Bible teaching to YouTube | World

And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
1 Peter 4:8

Chinese firm markets lifelike humanoid robots as remedy for loneliness

A Chinese robotics company has introduced a line of lifelike humanoid robots built as personal companions, presenting the machines as an answer to loneliness among single adults and older people, according to a video report from news agency Agence France-Presse. UBTech unveiled the U1 series and describes it as the world’s first full-size humanoid robot…

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‘A choice to die will become a duty to die’: Churches challenge assisted dying plan for the Isle of Man

Churches on the Isle of Man are urging members of parliament to reject an assisted dying bill they say is rushed and fails to protect vulnerable people. Churches Alive in Mann represents the Church of England, Methodist Church, Catholic Church, United Reformed Church, Living Hope, Elim Onchan, Salvation Army, and Broadway Baptist. The bill is…

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Georgia Secretary of State opens investigation into voter registration mailers sent to deceased residents

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced Thursday that his office has opened an investigation into Ready to Register and other third-party organizations after reports that voter registration mailers were sent to deceased Georgians and other ineligible recipients. According to the Secretary of State’s Office, election officials have received numerous complaints about voter registration solicitations…

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Shepherd Center makes hiking accessible for all, encouraging outdoor activities for better brain health

The Shepherd Center offered a free hiking and bird watching clinic at Panola Mountain State Park to encourage people with cognitive and physical impairments to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. The clinic is one of many events the neurorehabilitation hospital offers throughout the year. “We do biking, water, skiing, ski shooting, riflery, art, horticulture,…

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Fetterman and McCormick form bipartisan joint fundraising committee

Pennsylvania’s two U.S. senators have teamed up to form a joint fundraising committee to raise money for their campaigns in an unusual display of bipartisanship — and one that may not actually be meant to generate funds. Common Ground PA filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission on Monday. The joint fundraising committee lists both…

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Meals on Wheels pleads for volunteers to assist North Texas seniors

Under the clearest, brightest blue skies– Meals on Wheels staffers are navigating a perfect summer storm: more demand and rising gas prices that could discourage potential volunteers. And in both Dallas and Tarrant County, the agencies are desperate for more helping hands. “The need is great,” shares Inga Wilson, Vice President of Meals on Wheels…

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Recent News on Christian Persecution (March 11 – March 18, 2026)

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Advocacy groups including International Christian Concern (ICC), Open Doors, and Persecution Relief released multiple reports this week documenting fresh incidents of violence, arrests, and systemic discrimination. The global picture remains unchanged: roughly 388 million Christians (about 1 in 7 worldwide) continue to face high or extreme levels of persecution according to the 2026 World Watch List.

1. India – Mob Assault on 28 Christian Families in Chhattisgarh

  • On March 10 (reported March 16), a mob in Millampalli village, Sukma district, attacked 28 Christian families with wooden rods and sticks. The families had been denied government food rations since November 2025 solely because of their faith; when they complained, a local food inspector allegedly incited the violence and issued threats. Police complaints were filed, but witnesses claim authorities showed bias or inaction.

2. Nigeria – Fulani Militia Attacks Continue in Plateau State

  • A March 17 ICC report highlighted ongoing raids by Fulani militants and bandits on Christian farming communities in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Bokkos areas. Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo of the Church of Christ in Nations publicly stated that repeated appeals for protection, including direct outreach to the U.S. administration, have gone unanswered, leaving Middle Belt Christians exposed despite broader U.S. military operations elsewhere in the country. Churches and homes remain primary targets.

3. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Weekly ADF/ISIS-Linked Violence

  • ICC’s March 13 briefing detailed near-weekly attacks by the ISIS-affiliated Allied Democratic Forces in eastern provinces. Christians are being murdered, abducted, and displaced, with churches deliberately destroyed as militants seek to impose stricter Islamic rule. The situation has worsened in recent months, with hundreds killed or kidnapped in targeted Christian villages.

4. Cuba – Pastor Arrested for Posting Bible Teaching Online

  • On March 15, Pastor Rolando Pérez Lora was arrested after uploading a simple Bible teaching video to YouTube. The arrest drew international attention March 16–18, underscoring growing restrictions on online Christian expression in Cuba. Local believers and advocacy groups are calling for his immediate release.

5. Iran & China – Heightened Pressure Amid Conflict and Surveillance

  • Open Doors issued updated “Dispatches from Iran” (March 17) noting that at least 48 Christians remain imprisoned amid regional chaos, communication blackouts, and economic hardship affecting underground churches. In China, ICC’s new feature “Persecution Has No Borders” detailed intensified domestic surveillance plus overseas harassment of Chinese Christians abroad through “police stations” and digital monitoring.

6. China – “Persecution Has No Borders”

  • ICC’s March 17 feature emphasized the Chinese Communist Party’s expanding reach: intensified surveillance, church demolitions, and “Sinicization” campaigns inside China, alongside overseas “police stations” harassing Chinese Christians abroad. Long-term prisoners and families of detainees continue to suffer, with authorities tightening controls on online Bible studies and house churches.

7. Iran – Christians Endure War Chaos and Imprisonment

  • Open Doors issued a March 17 dispatch on the situation inside Iran amid regional conflict. At least 48 Christians remain imprisoned, many in the overcrowded and chaotic Evin Prison, while others are missing. Communication blackouts, economic collapse, and forced conscription have hit underground churches particularly hard. Believers have been actively supporting displaced families, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite the risks of arrest for “apostasy” or “propaganda against the regime.”

8. Broader Regional Warnings

  • Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) reiterated that escalating violence in the Middle East threatens the very survival of ancient Christian communities. The Vatican and UN statements this week again described anti-Christian persecution as the most widespread form of religious oppression globally.
  • The Vatican and several UN statements this week reiterated warnings about the scale of anti-Christian violence, especially in conflict zones. European commentators also discussed “polite persecution” , subtle legal and cultural pressures in Western societies, alongside the more violent incidents in the Global South. No major new policy shifts were announced, but advocacy groups continue pressing Western governments for stronger diplomatic action.

These reports emphasize both sudden violence and long-term systemic pressures. Relief organizations are actively providing emergency aid, legal assistance, and documentation. For ongoing monitoring, the primary sources remain ICC (persecution.org), Open Doors, and ACN.

Source: Grok on X

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
Galatians 6:1

Flash flooding, stormy weather returning to NYC, New Jersey

Stormy weather and flash flooding are expected to return to the New York City and New Jersey area on Friday. It’s a First Alert Weather Day for isolated downpours, scattered flash flooding and isolated severe thunderstorms across the region. The day starts off partly cloudy and muggy with temperatures around 70 degrees. Showers and storms…

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Supreme Court expands presidential firing power, overturning 90-year-old ruling

The Supreme Court on Monday ruled that removal protections for members of the Federal Trade Commission are unconstitutional and overturned a 90-year-old decision that allowed Congress to shield members of certain independent agencies from being fired by the president at will. The decision from the high court expands the president’s power over many independent boards…

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What to know about cyclospora parasite and how to avoid it

Got a nasty stomach bug that won’t go away? It could be cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that causes weeks of debilitating diarrhea, cramps and bloating. This infection tends to occur during the warm summer months, but several states are reporting increases in cases beyond what they would normally expect at this point in the year.…

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7 more women arrested at southwest Miami-Dade massage parlors, accused of prostitution in undercover sting

Seven more women have been arrested at massage parlors across Miami-Dade, following a wave of arrests in an undercover prostitution sting operation run by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.  All seven women appeared in bond court facing prostitution charges as well as running a massage business without a license. The arrests come a day after seven…

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Platner leaves Democrats with egg on their faces

Democrats have a number of Graham Platner-related problems even after his exit from the Maine Senate race amid a rape allegation he denies. But high on that list is the sheer amount of egg some of them now have on their faces. Amid his drip, drip, drip of controversies, Platner repeatedly put the party in…

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Van Fire burns 1,100 acres in Mariposa County, is 20% contained

A wildfire burning in rural Mariposa County has grown to 1,108 acres and was 20% contained, officials said Wednesday evening. The Van Fire was reported Wednesday northeast of White Rock Road in Cathey’s Valley, and north of Eastman Lake. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection…

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Hero Husky Saves Boy from Possible Bear Attack by Charging Wild Animal

Hero Husky Saves Boy from Possible Bear Attack by Charging Wild Animal Getty ALANA MASTRANGELO8 Jul 202627 A Husky is being hailed as a hero after saving a 6-year-old boy from a possible bear attack in Torrington, Connecticut. Video footage shows the boy standing in his driveway when a bear suddenly comes within a few…

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Cuba faces crisis as activist Rosa María Payá urges US pressure

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As Cuba faces rolling blackouts, food shortages and renewed protests, Cuban human rights activist Rosa María Payá is warning in an interview to Fox News Digital that the island’s deepening crisis cannot be solved with economic reforms alone and is urging the United States to maintain pressure on the communist government in Havana.

Source: Cuba faces crisis as activist Rosa María Payá urges US pressure | Fox News

For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Romans 13:9

RFK Jr. launches voluntary pledge for hospitals to serve healthier food

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Wednesday launched the “Make Hospital Food Healthier Pledge.”  The voluntary pledge asks hospitals to serve healthier meals that reduce “highly processed foods and prioritize nutrient-dense options” that align with federal dietary guidelines.  “Patients recovering from serious medical conditions…

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Associated Press Dislikes Trump Remarks on Communism at Mount Rushmore

Communism is an evil philosophy. Communist regimes have killed hundreds of millions of people, and made millions more live in a police state. But somehow, speaking ill of communism alarms the same journalists that constantly suggest democracy is in peril under Donald Trump. Authoritarianism is bad – unless it’s communist. Trump denounced communism in a…

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Lightning strike ignites vehicle over gas leak in Miramar neighborhood, alarming residents: “I could feel the heat at my house”

A lightning strike set a vehicle on fire in a Miramar neighborhood Monday afternoon, creating a dangerous situation after firefighters discovered the car was parked above a natural gas leak. The fire happened around 1 p.m. in the 6600 block of Dahlia Drive. Multiple agencies, including Miramar Fire Rescue, Hollywood Fire Rescue and the Broward…

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Severe flooding damages New Jersey communities after strong storms

Homeowners in New Jersey couldn’t catch a break after severe storms inundated their neighborhoods with rain.  Some were still waiting for power to be restored from Saturday night’s storm, when they were hit by flash flooding. Many families were pumping water out of their backyards and basements Monday night. They said floodwaters reached several feet deep…

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Saharan dust to bring drier, hotter conditions to South Florida by midweek

Another heat advisory will be in effect for Broward and Miami-Dade counties as “feels like” temperatures soar to around 105 Tuesday afternoon. The advisory will be in effect from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday as these areas could experience these elevated heat index values for at least two hours. This graphic shows the heat…

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Cuba hit with nationwide blackout as US pressure continues

Cuba suffered a nationwide blackout on Monday as it faces an ongoing energy crisis, worsened by an effective US blockade on fuel shipments. Cuba’s energy ministry said the national electrical grid had suffered a total collapse. The country’s grid operator said it is investigating the cause. Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy said officials…

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As Trump Focuses on Cuba, DOJ Seeks Charges Against Its Leaders

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The order could set the stage for a drive for regime change in Cuba, a goal President Trump has expressed.

Source: As Trump Focuses on Cuba, DOJ Seeks Charges Against Its Leaders – The New York Times

For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.
Luke 9:24

Strong to severe storms possible as North Texas stays hot, humid

It’s warm and muggy Tuesday morning, with most waking up to dry conditions. A few areas in Northeast Texas near Paris and Sulphur Springs have seen storms, with very isolated showers across other areas. A First Alert Weather Day has been issued for Tuesday afternoon due to the threat of strong-to-severe storms. There is a…

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Scattered afternoon storms could bring more flood risks to the Pittsburgh area

Scattered afternoon storms could bring more flood risks to the Pittsburgh area. Any Alert Days Ahead? None for now. Today could become one, depending on afternoon storm coverage and intensity. Thursday and Friday have a chance to become First Alert Weather Days. The chance is high that Friday will become one. Aware: Significant parts of our…

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China test-launches ballistic missile from sub in South Pacific, drawing protests

China’s military test-launched a long-range ballistic missile Monday from one of its nuclear-powered submarines in the South Pacific, drawing protest and concern from countries in the region. The missile was launched at 12:01 p.m. and carried a dummy warhead, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.  China last conducted a missile test in the Pacific…

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McKean Fire southwest of San Jose burns just over 10 acres

Fire crews have stopped the forward progression of the McKean Fire in Santa Clara County Sunday afternoon.  Cal Fire said aviation and ground resources were at the scene of the fire off Alamden Road and Mountain Drive, trying to establish containment lines.   Crews said the fire was burning at a moderate rate, but said…

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Maryland’s weekend storms knock down trees, leave residents in the dark

Maryland residents are feeling the impacts of severe storms that rumbled through the state this weekend, and more storms are possible on Monday. Heavy rain and strong wind gusts knocked down trees and power lines, leaving thousands without power on Saturday and Sunday. Storms could cause more issues, including potential flooding, on Monday. Power outages…

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Robin Williams as the American Flag

Robin Williams portrays the American flag in “I Love Liberty,” a two-hour television special created by Norman Lear and presented by People For the American Way. Source: (630) Robin Williams as the American Flag – YouTube

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Red Skelton’s Pledge of Allegiance

When is the last time you heard the pledge of Allegiance recited like the great late Christian comedian red Skelton? Give it a listen ! Source: (630) Red Skelton’s Pledge of Allegiance – YouTube

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Cuba: Millions plunged into darkness as fuel crisis deepens

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Fuel shortages have been exacerbated by a US oil blockade since the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Source: Cuba: Millions plunged into darkness as fuel crisis deepens

And the LORD will be king over all the earth. On that day the LORD will be one and his name one.
Zechariah 14:9

Lee Greenwood – God Bless The USA (Lyrics)

Lee Greenwood singing, God Bless The USA with on-screen lyrics. 4th of July (Independence Day) is right around the corner and this song will bless you because God will bless the USA. Enjoy and God bless. Source: Lee Greenwood – God Bless The USA (Lyrics) – YouTube

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The Story of America: The Kings Call to Arms

The White House Salute to America 250 Task Force has partnered with Hillsdale College to provide a history series that tells the remarkable story of American Independence. It will highlight the stories of the crucial characters and events that resulted in a small rag-tag army defeating the mightiest empire in the world and establishing the…

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The Story of America: John Adams

The White House Salute to America 250 Task Force has partnered with Hillsdale College to provide a history series that tells the remarkable story of American Independence. It will highlight the stories of the crucial characters and events that resulted in a small rag-tag army defeating the mightiest empire in the world and establishing the…

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The Story of America: Declaration of Independence

The White House Salute to America 250 Task Force has partnered with Hillsdale College to provide a history series that tells the remarkable story of American Independence. It will highlight the stories of the crucial characters and events that resulted in a small rag-tag army defeating the mightiest empire in the world and establishing the…

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The Story of America: The Battle of Bunker Hill

The White House Salute to America 250 Task Force has partnered with Hillsdale College to provide a history series that tells the remarkable story of American Independence. It will highlight the stories of the crucial characters and events that resulted in a small rag-tag army defeating the mightiest empire in the world and establishing the…

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George Washington on Freedom of Speech

George Washington never wrote a single famous statement that exactly says “freedom of speech” in the way many internet memes claim. However, throughout his writings and public addresses, he strongly supported the principles of free expression, a free press (while also emphasizing responsibility), and the right of citizens to discuss public affairs. Here are some…

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