Mauritius is certainly a paradise on earth, with its turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks and lush gardens. October is one of ...

Republicans and Democrats are pointing the finger at the other as the first government shutdown in more than six years seems almost certain to begin.

See everything from the ancient (Venus of Willendorf) to the quirky (the earliest known depiction of a waffle, by Pieter Bruegle) to the cutting edge.