Michael Waters

Jan 17, 2025 | atlasobscura.com | Anika Burgess |Michael Waters |Sarah Laskow |Jessie Guy-Ryan

Presidential pageantry has always been a part of American politics, from the grandeur of Inauguration Day to campaign-trail theatrics to victory celebrations. Through the years, presidents have shown an affinity for flair—whether it’s cheesy campaign logos, over-the-top merchandise, photoshopped portraits, or massive inaugural parade floats. In these five stories, we explore how presidents spare no expense when it comes to making an impression.

Jul 16, 2024 | slate.com | Michael Waters

Outward In 1948 Foekje Dillema seemed to be well on her way to international fame. Born in a poor village in Friesland, in the Netherlands, Dillema grew up in a bed she shared with three of her sisters. To earn money for her family, she began working as a domestic servant before she was even a teenager. By the time she was 22, however, she had set out on a path to bigger things: That year, she shocked sports watchers when she ran the 100-meter sprint in 12.7 seconds.

Mar 8, 2024 | theatlantic.com | Michael Waters

The age gap between children is widening—and altering family dynamics.

Sep 29, 2023 | theatlantic.com | Michael Waters

Nightlife cover charges can be arbitrary and humiliating—yet people still accept them.

Aug 13, 2023 | bigthink.com | Michael Waters

You hear it often: dating today doesn’t work like it used to. Or: apps like Tinder have made flirting more distant. But the process of staring, judging, and messaging potential suitors from afar—hallmarks of modern dating apps—is not new. Beginning in the 1920s, nightclub-goers in Berlin who feared face-to-face encounters could communicate with beautiful strangers from across the room. All they needed to do? Turn to the nearest pneumatic tube.