The White House's history with Thanksgiving, and how the turkey pardon came to be
The history of White House Thanksgiving traditions date back more than 160 years to President Abraham Lincoln, who established the national holiday.
Abraham Lincoln
Reporter's Notebook: Confronting slavery's horrors
An 1862 letter to President Abraham Lincoln offers a reminder that greatness comes from confronting, not avoiding, uncomfortable truths about America's past. "CBS Evening News" co-anchor John Dickerson explains.
Union Pacific and Norfolk seek merger to create first transcontinental railroad
Union Pacific is seeking to buy Norfolk Southern in a $85 billion deal that would create the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S.
The history of presidential fashion
From Abraham Lincoln's top hat to President Trump's signature red tie, presidential fashion historian Summer Anne Lee joins "The Takeout" to discuss the evolution of Oval Office style.
Doris Kearns Goodwin on effective leaders
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin has researched American presidents for 50 years. Over her career, she’s written extensively about the lives of Presidents Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Goodwin joins "CBS This Morning" to discuss her new online Master Class course where she teaches how leadership qualities can define a commander-in-chief.
Almanac: Lincoln's whiskers
On October 15, 1860, an 11-year-old girl's letter urged presidential candidate Abraham Lincoln to "let your whiskers grow" - and he did! Jane Pauley reports on the first (but not the last) bearded president.
The strange story of Lincoln's cabins
In Kentucky you can visit the cabin where Honest Abe grew up ... or is it? CBS News contributor Brook Silva-Braga investigates the unusual tale of log cabins at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park in Hodgenville, Kentucky.
Almanac: Yosemite Valley Grant Act
The act was signed by Abraham Lincoln 155 years ago on June 30, 1864. Yosemite became a national park in 1890.
State Department wants staff to report alleged anti-Christian bias during Biden's term
President Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio is asking staff to report allegations of anti-Christian bias during the Biden era, including actions taken for opposition to vaccines or personal pronoun choice.
Reporter's Notebook: The day Lincoln reframed his image
A photograph and a speech changed the course of American history on this day in 1860. In a studio in New York City, aspiring presidential candidate Abe Lincoln stood for a portrait to prove he wasn't, as one newspaper called him, "the leanest, lankiest, most ungainly mass of legs, arms and hatchet face ever strung upon a single frame." John Dickerson explains.
Abraham Lincoln on peaceful transfer of power
On Election Day 160 years ago, the Civil War wasn’t going well, and it looked like Abraham Lincoln would not be reelected. So, Lincoln wrote a secret memo and sealed it. Inside, he vowed a peaceful transfer of power.
Navy oil ship damaged off coast of Oman
Officials confirm a U.S. Navy oil replenishment ship that supports the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group ran aground on Monday. CBS News senior national security correspondent Charlie D'Agata has more on the Big Horn.
What history can teach about this U.S. moment
In the past two weeks, former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt and President Biden ended his reelection campaign. Has there ever been two weeks in American history like this? The answer: Yes and no. CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett explains.
Looking back at the history of the GOP
Milwaukee is hosting the 2024 Republican National Convention this week. It's just about 90 minutes away from where the party was born 170 years ago. CBS News Sunday Morning correspondent Mo Rocca looks at the GOP's history.
Author explores what holds U.S. together
Francis Barry and his wife traveled coast to coast in a 2017 Winnebago RV in the fall of 2020, heading West along the Lincoln Highway and returning through the South. Along the way, he had many conversations about the state of the U.S., captured in the book "Back Roads and Better Angels: a Journey into the Heart of American Democracy." Barry joins CBS News to discuss what he learned.
The story of Timbuctoo, home for free Black Americans decades before Juneteenth
Decades before Juneteenth, free Black Americans thrived in the South Jersey community of Timbuctoo. Meet the native son trying to preserve its history.
Major Garrett reflects on grand jury service
For five weeks, CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett served on a grand jury in the District of Columbia. On Wednesday, Garrett returned to "America Decides" and reflected on what he took from the experience.
Abraham Lincoln pardoned Biden's great-great-granddad, documents show
President Biden's great-great-grandfather, Moses Robinette, was charged with attempted murder after a fight in 1864.
Live
Senate passes spending package ahead of shutdown deadline, but funding will still lapse
The Senate passed a deal on a package of spending bills Friday, sending it to the House, though funding for dozens of government agencies is still set to lapse Saturday.
Live
Live updates as 3 million Epstein files released by DOJ
The Justice Department released more new documents today from the Jeffrey Epstein files, more than a month after DOJ's original deadline to do so.
Catherine O'Hara, "Beetlejuice" and "Home Alone" star, dies at 71
Catherine O'Hara was best known for her comic performances in projects including "Home Alone," "Beetlejuice," and "Schitt's Creek."
Journalist Don Lemon appears in court following arrest over protest at Minnesota church
Don Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents in Los Angeles, where he had been covering the Grammy Awards, his attorney said.
Venezuela's Machado: "I will be president when the time comes"
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado weighs in on her political future in a new interview with "Face the Nation."
"Dances With Wolves" actor Nathan Chasing Horse convicted of sexual assault
A Nevada jury convicted "Dances With Wolves" actor Nathan Chasing Horse of multiple charges of sexually assaulting a minor.
Greg Biffle wasn't flying plane before crash that killed him and 6 others, NTSB says
Federal safety officials have concluded that retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was not flying his jet when it crashed last month in North Carolina, killing him and six others.
FBI now leading investigation into fatal shooting of Alex Pretti
The FBI is now leading the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minnesota.
President Trump dominates red carpet chatter at "Melania" premiere
For those wondered if President Trump would give up the spotlight and let the first lady field all reporter questions at the premiere of her film "Melania" Thursday night, the answer was no.
U.S.
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"Dances With Wolves" actor Nathan Chasing Horse convicted of sexual assault
A Nevada jury convicted "Dances With Wolves" actor Nathan Chasing Horse of multiple charges of sexually assaulting a minor.
Greg Biffle wasn't flying plane before crash that killed him and 6 others, NTSB says
Federal safety officials have concluded that retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was not flying his jet when it crashed last month in North Carolina, killing him and six others.
3 key questions for investors about Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh
Kevin Warsh, a former Fed governor, is in line to replace Fed Chair Jerome Powell in May. Here's what Wall Street wants to know.
Patients are being hit with this surprise fee just for seeing their doc
One patient reports getting stuck with a $2,418 "facility fee" after seeing her doctor. "I didn't even know such a thing existed," she said.
Exclusive
Nevada's first-in-the-nation primary bid gets boost from Latino Victory
Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina are vying to be the first state to vote in the 2028 Democratic presidential primaries.
MoneyWatch
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3 key questions for investors about Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh
Kevin Warsh, a former Fed governor, is in line to replace Fed Chair Jerome Powell in May. Here's what Wall Street wants to know.
Patients are being hit with this surprise fee just for seeing their doc
One patient reports getting stuck with a $2,418 "facility fee" after seeing her doctor. "I didn't even know such a thing existed," she said.
A new $45 fee for travelers without Real IDs goes into effect Feb. 1
Passengers without Real IDs can still fly if they pay a $45 fee, which covers the cost of additional identity verification screening.
Saks to shutter most Saks Off 5th stores as bankrupt retailer cuts costs
Saks, which declared bankruptcy on Jan. 14, is set to hold going-out-of-business sales as it closes dozens of retail outlets.
What Kevin Warsh as new Federal Reserve chair could mean for the economy
The president is turning to a former Fed official as his nominee to replace outgoing Chair Jerome Powell.
Politics
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Venezuela's Machado: "I will be president when the time comes"
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado weighs in on her political future in a new interview with "Face the Nation."
Exclusive
Nevada's first-in-the-nation primary bid gets boost from Latino Victory
Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina are vying to be the first state to vote in the 2028 Democratic presidential primaries.
Live
Live updates as 3 million Epstein files released by DOJ
The Justice Department released more new documents today from the Jeffrey Epstein files, more than a month after DOJ's original deadline to do so.
President Trump dominates red carpet chatter at "Melania" premiere
For those wondered if President Trump would give up the spotlight and let the first lady field all reporter questions at the premiere of her film "Melania" Thursday night, the answer was no.
Justice Department will probe Alex Pretti's killing in civil rights investigation
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche says the Department of Justice is participating in a civil rights investigation into the death of Alex Pretti, who was shot and killed by two Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis amid a federal immigration crackdown.
HealthWatch
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Patients are being hit with this surprise fee just for seeing their doc
One patient reports getting stuck with a $2,418 "facility fee" after seeing her doctor. "I didn't even know such a thing existed," she said.
Carter Center reaches major milestone in quest to eradicate Guinea worm
Jimmy Carter made eradicating the Guinea worm a top mission of The Carter Center. Now it could soon become the second disease eradicated in history.
Life expectancy in U.S. hit record high of 79 years in 2024, CDC says
U.S. life expectancy rose to 79 years in 2024 - the highest mark in American history. But the U.S. still ranks below dozens of other countries.
Gerber recalls some arrowroot biscuits over potential plastic, paper pieces
The recall affects several batches of the 5.5-ounce Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, the FDA said.
South Carolina measles outbreak now larger than Texas' in 2025, new data shows
South Carolina's measles outbreak has grown to include 789 cases. A West Texas outbreak last year sickened 762 people.
World
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Iranians are anxious, but some hope Trump will "fulfill his promise"
Many people in Tehran and Tel Aviv are worried that Trump will make good on his threats to attack Iran again, but for some, it's fear laced with hope.
Son of Norway crown princess to stand trial for allegedly raping 4 women
Marius Borg Hoiby, the 29-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been charged with a total of 38 counts.
Shark kills 13-year-old boy at popular beach in Brazil
Dozens of beaches along the turquoise coastlines of Pernambuco have been issued with shark warnings, authorities said.
Quieter night in Ukraine as Trump says Putin agreed to pause strikes
Zelenskyy says Ukraine will "take corresponding steps" as Trump says Putin agreed to stop bombing Ukrainian cities for a week.
Remains, jacket found over 2 years after woman vanished in wilderness
Human remains and clothing were found while searching for Belgian national Celine Cremer, who went missing in 2023 in Tasmania, police said.
Entertainment
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Catherine O'Hara, "Beetlejuice" and "Home Alone" star, dies at 71
Catherine O'Hara was best known for her comic performances in projects including "Home Alone," "Beetlejuice," and "Schitt's Creek."
UFC 325 fights go down tomorrow night. See when it starts, who's on the card and where to watch.
Alexander Volkanovski faces Diego Lopes in the UFC 325 main event on what's expected to be an action-packed fight card.
KATSEYE reflects on success and what's next
In just two years, KATSEYE has gone from a Netflix reality competition show to top of the charts, collecting a VMA and two Grammy nominations along the way. The group talks about their journey together in the music industry and what they hope for in the future.
Designer brings life to Grammy red carpet
The nominees and performers for the Grammy Awards will walk the red carpet on Sunday - with flashing camera lights, celebrity interviews and floral designs. Botanical artist Tu Bloom has been the designer behind the red carpet flowers for nearly two decades. He speaks to "CBS Mornings" about his design for this year's red carpet and what drew him to his profession.
Behind-the-scenes look ahead of the Grammys
Final preparations are underway for the Grammys, which air on Sunday on CBS. Music's biggest night could be historic for multiple artists. Anthony Mason got an inside look.
Technology
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Uber looks to cash in on self-driving cars — but not by driving them
The rideshare company is getting into the business of providing real-world driving data to autonomous vehicle developers. Here's why.
New AI features for Gmail users
This month, Google launched a suite of new features for Gmail. Google's AI assistant, Gemini, can now filter through junk, summarize an inbox and even help users write emails. Blake Barnes, Gmail vice president of product, joins CBS News to discuss.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Analysts say Starlink may have guided Russian drones into a Ukrainian train
As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with a deadly strike on a train, some defense analysts believe Elon Musk's Starlink may have guided the killer drones.
TikTok's new privacy policy is sparking a backlash. Here's what to know.
Some TikTok users are raising questions about the app's new terms and conditions after the social media platform's split from its China-based parent.
Science
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Scientists "quite surprised" to find one polar bear population thriving
After decades monitoring polar bears in Norway's far north, researchers say the animals have proven incredibly adaptable, but there are no guarantees for the future.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Crime
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Crime
Why judge dropped 2 charges against Mangione
Luigi Mangione, the accused killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, will not face the death penalty after a judge on Friday dismissed two counts that could have carried a death sentence. CBS News legal contributor Caroline Polisi joins to take a look at the new ruling and what it means for the high-profile murder case.
DOJ releases new batch of Epstein files
The Justice Department is releasing more than 3 million pages related to its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday. CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe reports. Then, journalist Barry Levine, who has covered Epstein for years, joins with analysis.
Don Lemon's attorney reacts to his arrest
Independent journalist Don Lemon has been arrested in Los Angeles and faces two federal charges, a source tells CBS News. Anna Schecter has more.
DOJ releases more Epstein files
The Justice Department released more than 3 million pages from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation files. CBS News' Jake Rosen reports.
Judge on Luigi Mangione facing death penalty
A federal judge has ruled on evidence that can be used in Luigi Mangione's case and determined he will not face the death penalty if convicted. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman reports.
Space
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NASA delays Artemis mission to moon due to cold weather
The first Artemis moonshot with a crew is now targeted for no earlier than Feb. 8, two days later than planned.
Artemis II crew undergoes intense training for rare moon mission
For months, the Artemis II crew and flight controllers have been simulating malfunctions to prepare for their upcoming trip around the Moon.
Inside Artemis II astronauts' training
NASA is preparing for its first crewed mission around the moon in more than 50 years. The Artemis II astronauts include three Americans and one Canadian on a 10-day flight. Mark Strassmann got a look at how they're training.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
More on Virgin Galactic all-female space crew
Virgin Galactic is sending an all-female research team to space. Kellie Gerardi, who is leading the crew, joins "CBS News 24/7 Mornings" to discuss the goals of the mission.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Don Lemon arrested after covering church protest
Journalist Don Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles, his attorney and multiple sources with direct knowledge told CBS News. The arrest comes nearly two weeks after Lemon was at an anti-ICE protest that disrupted a service at a church in Minnesota. Matt Gutman reports.
What's holding up the funding bill?
Senate Democrats struck a deal with the White House late Thursday on a funding deal ahead of the government shutdown deadline, but the upper chamber has yet to hold a vote to pass the package. CBS News' Nikole Killion has the latest.
He saved a snowball for 50 years after a snow day
As snow days sweep the country, one man's fond memories of one in 1976 led to a frozen heirloom decades in the making. Steve Hartman has the story in "On the Road."
Rookie cop saves 2 choking babies within months
A rookie cop in New York City faced not one, but two life or death tests of his police academy training. As Tony Dokoupil reports, he passed them both.
Breaking down latest Epstein files release
The Justice Department on Friday began releasing more than 3 million records related to the investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Jake Rosen has more.