The passing of former South African president Nelson Mandela on Thursday was not enough to calm the political ire from the far-right–particularly that of Sen. Ted Cruz’s most ardent supporters. read story

The November jobs numbers show continuing–but slow–improvement. read story

Yet the canonization of King and Mandela inevitably seeks to expunge from history the memory of the radicals they once were. read story

The economy added 203,000 jobs in November, pushing the unemployment rate down to 7.0%—the lowest level in five years. read story

Tributes poured in on Friday for South Africa’s first black president, who in passing–as in life–remains a symbol of unity and hope. read story

President Barack Obama spoke candidly to msnbc’s Chris Matthews about the challenges of being commander in chief and the legacy he will leave behind. read story

Women are helping start businesses in the war-torn Middle East, especially in Jordan where Syrian refugees are trying to survive. read story