Trump touts American "golden age," attacks communism in July 4th speech
In a speech delayed by a two-hour evacuation of the National Mall due to severe weather, President Trump mixed politics with history.
America 250
Weather woes impact July 4th celebrations as National Mall briefly evacuated
Americans celebrated 250 years of independence this Fourth of July, although severe weather put a damper on the proceedings in several parts of the country.
DNA technology leads to identification of Revolutionary War soldier
The remains of a Revolutionary War soldier were identified as a young man from Maryland just before America's 250th anniversary.
Family-owned company prepares to put on the largest fireworks display in history
When the sun goes down on Independence Day, the skies of Washington, D.C., are expected to fill with a record-setting 850,000 individual fireworks for a 40-minute spectacle like no one has seen before.
Trump warns of "communist menace" in speech at Mount Rushmore
The president kicked off America's 250th anniversary celebrations with a speech at Mount Rushmore where he warned of a resurgence in communism.
6 presidential speeches that shaped American history
These six presidential speeches are some that have most reverberated through the ages, and whose impacts are still felt today.
Inside the security operations for July Fourth celebrations in D.C.
The Fourth of July celebrations in Washington, D.C., are deemed a "national special security event," which is the highest possible designation.
The American innovation that made millions of others possible
From the lightbulb to the airplane, to medical breakthroughs and the internet age, the past 250 years have been defined by America's intrepid intellect.
"Vanishingly rare" copy of Declaration of Independence found in U.K.
A volunteer at the National Archives in London found the document among other papers seized from an American ship in 1776.
Kennedy Center selling $25,000 ticket package to watch D.C. July 4th fireworks
The Washington, D.C., fireworks show, which is sponsored by the Trump-backed organization Freedom 250, is not slated to begin until 10:30 p.m. or 11 p.m.
3 futurists predict what America will be like in the centuries ahead
From space to healthcare and artificial intelligence, what could the next 250 years of the United States look like?
How dialects reveal America's history and hint at what's next
Across the United States, the way you speak is filled with cultural authenticity and central to identity.
NYC bar claims founding father history
If you want to party like a Founding Father, Fraunces Tavern in New York City promises that experience this July 4. The owner says the Sons of Liberty drank, argued and celebrated there. Tony Dokoupil has the story.
Why Florida stayed loyal to Britain during the American Revolution
Historians explain why East and West Florida remained loyal to Britain instead of joining the 13 colonies in declaring independence.
American icons reflect on the ideals the U.S. was founded on
Leaders in the arts, science and business, including Sundar Pichai, Jamie Lee Curtis, Katie Ledecky and Ken Burns shared their reflections on America.
D.C.'s July 4th fireworks will have "TSA-style" security
This year's Fourth of July celebrations in D.C. — marking the nation's 250th birthday — will include hours of military flyovers and a massive fireworks display that could stretch late into the night.
CBS News poll on America at 250 — its successes and its challenges
A big majority say the nation has succeeded in achieving its founding ideals, at least a fair amount, if not a great deal. But Americans also see a nation facing challenges today, according to CBS News' most recent poll.
Poll: America at 250 and some of what Americans think is best about U.S.
Americans weighed in on what's best about the U.S., its greatest invention, most representative food and more in latest CBS News poll.
Teaching the Declaration of Independence with hashtags 250 years later
Educators are finding engaging ways to teach the Declaration of Independence on the 250th anniversary of its signing.
Douglas Brinkley on America at 250: History tells us hoping for unity is not futile
In these fiercely-polarized times, the presidential historian reminds us that Americans' freedom has been tested – and has survived – much worse.
The Equal Rights Amendment: A promise unfulfilled
An Equal Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution – guaranteeing rights to all Americans regardless of sex – was first proposed to Congress in 1923. More than a century later, the ERA still has not become a formal part of our nation's bedrock of laws.
Historic Route 66: Americana on the go
Though long bypassed by interstates, the historic "Mother Road," stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, remained a place for drivers to "get their kicks." Today, marking its first 100 years, Route 66 continues to attract travelers searching for an America of yesterday.
The Founding Fathers: Why their radical beliefs continue to shape America
The men who signed the Declaration of Independence were flawed, but what they did in the summer of 1776 changed the world forever – and their fight for equality continues today.
250 essential American songs to mark nation's birthday
What are the essential American songs? To mark the nation's 250th birthday, we asked that question to Sunday Morning's familiar faces, from performers to artists and writers to community leaders.
Historian retraces Underground Railroad to mark America's 250-year journey
Anthony Cohen has spent his life bringing attention to the Underground Railroad, secret routes once used by enslaved people seeking freedom.
U.S.
USS Washington aircraft carrier heads to Middle East to replace USS Lincoln
The USS George Washington aircraft carrier departed Vietnam last week and is headed to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to a U.S. official.
Teen caught on video kicking sea lion pleads guilty, faces prison time
Tyler Muehl, 18, pleaded guilty in federal court after a viral video captured him attacking the sea lion at La Jolla Cove.
American missionary kidnapped in Niger in October is freed, his group says
An American missionary who was kidnapped in Niger in October has been released, his organization says, adding that Kevin Rideout "is in good health in the care of U.S. officials."
Evidence of bird strike on plane where man was nearly sucked out window, NTSB says
A bird strike may have been the cause of an incident in which a passenger was nearly sucked out of a broken window aboard a Ryanair flight in Europe last month, the NTSB found.
3 executions carried out in a single day, first time since 2010
Tennessee and Oklahoma executed inmates within 30 minutes of each other on Thursday, followed by Alabama later in the day.
Flock CEO responds to abuses of its surveillance technology
The CEO of Flock Safety apologized for alleged abuses of its service by law enforcement officers as the company rolled out new changes to how it operates.
AI is driving up consumer prices. That won't stop anytime soon.
Surging AI investment is pushing up the cost of smartphones and other gadgets, according to analysts. Here's why.
Jury selected for Tupac Shakur murder trial, opening statements expected Monday
A jury of six men and 10 women was selected to hear the case against an ex-gang leader accused of orchestrating Tupac Shakur's killing nearly 30 years ago.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (Aug. 16)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
Kennedy Center board votes to restore Trump's name on building
The Kennedy Center's board of trustees voted to add President Trump's name to the facade of the performing arts center, more than two months after a judge ordered its removal, according to a Democrat who sits on the center's board.
Record-breaking heat takes mounting toll on the U.S. economy
Heat waves are dealing a financial blow to businesses and creating hazardous conditions for workers, according to climate experts.
Baby in surrogate dispute now in custody of parents, lawyer says
The baby at the center of a surrogacy dispute was born in Texas Wednesday and has hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a rare heart defect.
Luigi Mangione in talks about possible guilty plea with court date today, sources say
Luigi Mangione, accused in the 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is in discussions about a possible plea deal on federal charges, sources familiar with the matter told CBS News.
Hawaii under a hurricane warning as Tropical Storm Lala takes aim
Tropical Storm Lala could bring heavy rain, high winds and dangerous surf and rip currents to the Hawaiian Islands as a hurricane this weekend, forecasters say.
Can taking weight-loss drugs help you get hired? Yes, if you're a woman.
Going on GLP-1 drugs significantly boosted unemployed women's chances of finding a job, according to a Harvard economist.
DOJ leaves in place ruling that deregulates silencers, shotguns
A Texas judge earlier this month issued a ruling that deregulated silencers, shotguns and certain rifles.
Floodwaters submerge Midwest neighborhoods bracing for more severe storms
Muddy floodwaters seeped into the homes of Indiana and Ohio residents this week, as severe storms struck the Midwest. Now, some areas are bracing for even more rain.
Reese's Halloween pumpkins hit shelves unchanged after lawsuit victory
Hershey said the Halloween-shaped candy, which had sparked a lawsuit over the product's lack of detail, will return in its familiar oval shape.
Robert Gilman was on "death's door" before Russia freed him, advocate says
Robert Gilman, a U.S. Marine veteran, was imprisoned in Russia for over four years and now faces a long road to recovery, says a hostage crisis expert who advocated for Gilman's release.
60 cats rescued from abandoned boat anchored off Washington state
Police in Tacoma, Washington, say they have rescued 60 cats and kittens from an abandoned sailboat that was found anchored off a city beach last week.
Whole Foods recalls some jalapeño products over salmonella risk
Certain salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared jalapeño products at Whole Foods are among the products recalled over possible salmonella risk.
2 killed as Apache helicopter from Fort Hood crashes in Salado, Texas
Two soldiers aboard an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based out of Fort Hood were killed in a crash on Wednesday, according to local authorities and the Army.
U.S. indicts former SPLC executive for her role in alleged fraud scheme
Prosecutors have accused the Southern Poverty Law Center of telling donors and banks it was dismantling white supremacist and extremist groups, while funneling payments to confidential informants in the groups.
Karoline Leavitt exiting as White House press secretary
President Trump said Karoline Leavitt will be leaving her role to focus on her young family.
Maps and charts show record number of measles cases in U.S. this year
CBS News has been tracking a record number of measles cases and outbreaks around the country. The majority of cases are among those who haven't been vaccinated.
U.S.
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USS Washington aircraft carrier heads to Middle East to replace USS Lincoln
The USS George Washington aircraft carrier departed Vietnam last week and is headed to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to a U.S. official.
Teen caught on video kicking sea lion pleads guilty, faces prison time
Tyler Muehl, 18, pleaded guilty in federal court after a viral video captured him attacking the sea lion at La Jolla Cove.
American missionary kidnapped in Niger in October is freed, his group says
An American missionary who was kidnapped in Niger in October has been released, his organization says, adding that Kevin Rideout "is in good health in the care of U.S. officials."
Evidence of bird strike on plane where man was nearly sucked out window, NTSB says
A bird strike may have been the cause of an incident in which a passenger was nearly sucked out of a broken window aboard a Ryanair flight in Europe last month, the NTSB found.
3 executions carried out in a single day, first time since 2010
Tennessee and Oklahoma executed inmates within 30 minutes of each other on Thursday, followed by Alabama later in the day.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
AI is driving up consumer prices. That won't stop anytime soon.
Surging AI investment is pushing up the cost of smartphones and other gadgets, according to analysts. Here's why.
Record-breaking heat takes mounting toll on the U.S. economy
Heat waves are dealing a financial blow to businesses and creating hazardous conditions for workers, according to climate experts.
Can taking weight-loss drugs help you get hired? Yes, if you're a woman.
Going on GLP-1 drugs significantly boosted unemployed women's chances of finding a job, according to a Harvard economist.
Reese's Halloween pumpkins hit shelves unchanged after lawsuit victory
Hershey said the Halloween-shaped candy, which had sparked a lawsuit over the product's lack of detail, will return in its familiar oval shape.
Whole Foods recalls some jalapeño products over salmonella risk
Certain salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared jalapeño products at Whole Foods are among the products recalled over possible salmonella risk.
Politics
More Politics
USS Washington aircraft carrier heads to Middle East to replace USS Lincoln
The USS George Washington aircraft carrier departed Vietnam last week and is headed to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to a U.S. official.
Live
UAE accuses Iran of Hormuz attacks as Vance says cheap gas is "goal number one"
The UAE accuses Iran of attacking two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz as Vance says cheap oil and gas is "goal number one" from the war.
Kennedy Center board votes to restore Trump's name on building
The Kennedy Center's board of trustees voted to add President Trump's name to the facade of the performing arts center, more than two months after a judge ordered its removal, according to a Democrat who sits on the center's board.
Trump administration's antisemitism lawsuit against Harvard dismissed
The lawsuit was one of many steps against Harvard that the Trump administration has taken since President Trump's return to office, in addition to attempting to cancel billions of dollars in federal funds.
DOJ leaves in place ruling that deregulates silencers, shotguns
A Texas judge earlier this month issued a ruling that deregulated silencers, shotguns and certain rifles.
HealthWatch
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My husband was kicked out of hospice. Here's what I learned.
Some seriously ill patients improve on hospice. About 1 in 16 patients enrolled in hospice care lose eligibility as a result. Here's how to get appropriate care.
Texas steps into surrogate fight with parents
California parents wanted to end a surrogate pregnancy when doctors diagnosed the baby with a severe heart defect at 20 weeks. The surrogate refused and went to Texas, where the state has now stepped in. The baby was born on Wednesday. Jason Allen reports.
Whole Foods recalls some jalapeño products over salmonella risk
Certain salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared jalapeño products at Whole Foods are among the products recalled over possible salmonella risk.
Maps and charts show record number of measles cases in U.S. this year
CBS News has been tracking a record number of measles cases and outbreaks around the country. The majority of cases are among those who haven't been vaccinated.
Norah O'Donnell: I take testosterone. Here's why.
Norah O'Donnell sat down with her own doctor, Rachel Rubin, to tackle the important topic of menopause: How your body changes, why women may be needlessly suffering, and what you can actually do about it.
World
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USS Washington aircraft carrier heads to Middle East to replace USS Lincoln
The USS George Washington aircraft carrier departed Vietnam last week and is headed to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to a U.S. official.
Live
UAE accuses Iran of Hormuz attacks as Vance says cheap gas is "goal number one"
The UAE accuses Iran of attacking two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz as Vance says cheap oil and gas is "goal number one" from the war.
American missionary kidnapped in Niger in October is freed, his group says
An American missionary who was kidnapped in Niger in October has been released, his organization says, adding that Kevin Rideout "is in good health in the care of U.S. officials."
Poland says it thwarted Russian plot to kill an American citizen
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the suspect was allegedly recruited by Russia's secret services.
They've survived 2 major earthquakes in Colombia: "A sense of powerlessness"
Colombia earthquake survivors are facing major loss and a yearslong road to recovery filled with grief and uncertainty. Here's what responders say will happen next.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Becky G gives behind-the-scenes look
"CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King went inside a rehearsal with singer Becky G as she gives fans a sneak peek at a new single before her upcoming album's release.
Recipe: Amish Peanut Butter Pie
Lovina Hershberger Zook, who left the Amish faith, today shares recipes of the Amish with her more than six million followers on social media.
"CBS Sunday Morning" launches new series of live events at the 92nd Street Y in NYC, debuting with Sylvester Stallone
America's #1 Sunday morning news program announces a new collaboration beginning Sept. 28 to bring conversations with the biggest newsmakers in the arts, politics and culture to the stage, and streamed online.
Exclusive
Becky G reflects on advocacy in new music, rise to fame
Becky G spoke exclusively with "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King about her rise to fame, being the breadwinner of the family at a young age and her new music.
Becky G on her rise to fame, new music
Singer Becky G was signed to a record label at just 14 years old. She spoke exclusively to "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King about her rise to fame, advocacy in her new music and major collaborations.
Technology
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Technology
Flock CEO on misuse concerns
Flock CEO Garrett Langley sat down with CBS News' Anna Schecter and discussed allegations of the technology's misuse by law enforcement.
Schools curb technology use in classroom
As students across the country head back to the classroom, some schools, educators and parents are rethinking how much they utilize technology and screen time. Nicole Valdes has more.
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.
Flock CEO addresses new safety measures
Flock CEO Garrett Langley apologized in an interview with CBS News amid claims the surveillance company's license plate readers have been misused by some police officers. Langley also addressed new safety measures that were recently announced. Anna Schecter reports.
Tim Cook on new U.S. manufacturing plant
Jo Ling Kent spoke exclusively with outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook about a new manufacturing plant in Houston, what it means for jobs, and what he wants his legacy to be as he prepares to step down as CEO.
Science
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Science
Views of the total solar eclipse in Europe
A total solar eclipse was visible in parts of Europe for the first time since 1912. Rob Marciano reports.
Europe sees total solar eclipse
A total solar eclipse turned day into night across a slice of Europe and North America on Wednesday, and put millions in unique contact with the heavens above. Meteorologist Rob Marciano reports from Spain.
Astronomy professor on how eclipses work
Janna Levin, professor of physics and astronomy at Barnard College, joins CBS News to discuss Wednesday's total solar eclipse.
How a total solar eclipse stopped a war
Columbia University astronomy professor Dr. Janna Levin joins CBS News to discuss Wednesday's total solar eclipse, saying it's a reminder that humans share this Earth together and "we're all part of something larger."
New space object called "black hole star" discovered by astronomers
The newly discovered object looks like a star the size of our solar system, but produces 100 billion times more energy than any star.
Crime
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Crime
Flock CEO on misuse concerns
Flock CEO Garrett Langley sat down with CBS News' Anna Schecter and discussed allegations of the technology's misuse by law enforcement.
News expected in Luigi Mangione case
Luigi Mangione may plead guilty as part of an agreement with federal prosecutors, sources tell CBS News. Katrina Kaufman reports.
Teen caught on video kicking sea lion pleads guilty, faces prison time
Tyler Muehl, 18, pleaded guilty in federal court after a viral video captured him attacking the sea lion at La Jolla Cove.
Flock CEO addresses new safety measures
Flock CEO Garrett Langley apologized in an interview with CBS News amid claims the surveillance company's license plate readers have been misused by some police officers. Langley also addressed new safety measures that were recently announced. Anna Schecter reports.
Lindsay Clancy journal entries read in court
Lindsay Clancy, the Massachusetts woman in court for the alleged murder of her three children, heard parts of her journal being read out as part of the proceedings. This comes after an emotional week that included autopsy images of her children. Abby Patkin, a Boston.com reporter, joins CBS News with more details.
Space
More Space
New space object called "black hole star" discovered by astronomers
The newly discovered object looks like a star the size of our solar system, but produces 100 billion times more energy than any star.
Stunning photos show total solar eclipse over Europe
The only total solar eclipse of 2026 crossed the Northern Hemisphere Wednesday, with a path of totality across parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. See photos and video from the best viewing locations.
Perseid meteor shower reaches peak viewing on Wednesday night
The Perseid meteor shower is the best viewing all year, according to NASA.
Most detailed images taken of sun's surface revealed
Researchers were able to peek at the sun's scorching surface with the help of the National Science Foundation's Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii.
SpaceX rocket booster slams into moon, creating crater that could be 16 feet deep
The impact wasn't visible to the naked eye, but photos are expected to come from a lunar satellite at a later time.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Investigating the death of designer Sylvie Cachay
Sylvie Cachay was found dead in an overflowing bathtub at the exclusive Soho House in New York City on Dec. 9, 2010. A water leak at the hotel gave away a timeline that may have revealed her killer.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Flock CEO on misuse concerns
Flock CEO Garrett Langley sat down with CBS News' Anna Schecter and discussed allegations of the technology's misuse by law enforcement.
Poland on stopped Russian plot to kill
Poland is claiming that it thwarted a Russian plot to kill a Ukrainian-American citizen in Warsaw. "He was inconvenient from the point of view of the Putin regime," Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said. CBS News' Ramy Inocencio reports.
News expected in Luigi Mangione case
Luigi Mangione may plead guilty as part of an agreement with federal prosecutors, sources tell CBS News. Katrina Kaufman reports.
USS Abraham Lincoln faces allegations
Democrats are demanding answers as allegations about the conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln continue to emerge. CBS News' Charlie D'Agata reports.
Extreme weather slams the Midwest
The Midwest is bracing for more extreme weather after flooding inundated entire streets in some areas. CBS News' Ian Lee reports.