The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top History Topics

Things Worth Remembering: When the Earth Shakes

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1674 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
💾 History Philosophy Disasters Human behavior Cultural impact Historical Events
  1. The 1906 San Francisco earthquake led to a lot of chaos, but it also showed how people can come together and create order from disorder.
  2. Philosopher William James found inspiration in the earthquake's aftermath, believing in hope even during tough times.
  3. This history reminds us that even in crisis, there can be opportunities to rebuild and unite as a community.

The Nazis Did Not ‘Weaponize’ Free Speech. They Crushed It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2119 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
💾 History World War Free speech Totalitarianism Media Critique Censorship
  1. The Nazis did not use free speech to their advantage; instead, they suppressed it completely. This shows how dangerous it can be when a government controls speech.
  2. There is a significant amount of historical misunderstanding today, especially in media discussions. This leads to misleading narratives about past events and their implications.
  3. Critiquing historical figures without proper context can lead to false conclusions about their actions and the times they lived in. It’s important to understand history accurately to avoid repeating mistakes.

The decline and fall of the Third British Empire

Wrong Side of History • 322 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
💾 History Empires Politics Culture Ideology Society
  1. Communism was more than just economics; it was a strong way of thinking that people believed was the only true way. When people stopped believing in it, the system began to crumble.
  2. Similar to the past, many people today are losing faith in current ideas that progressives promote, as they feel these ideas don't always work as promised.
  3. When a society lacks a strong vision or belief, it can lead to big changes in politics and culture, like what we're seeing with rising nationalisms.

CONFEDERATE MOUND VISIT

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 819 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History Civil War Memory Monuments Culture Society
  1. Visiting historical sites can help us understand the past better. It's important to learn about different perspectives from history.
  2. Reflecting on events from history allows us to consider their impact on today's society. Understanding our history shapes who we are.
  3. Talking about historical figures and events helps keep the conversation going. It helps us engage with one another about common topics in our shared history.

LECTURE NOTES: Lash, Cash, & Cotton in the Imperial-Commercial & Early SteamPower Age

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 299 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
💾 History Slavery Capitalism Race Civil War Economics
  1. Slavery changed over time, especially after 1500, when it became more about race and capitalism. Before that, people could become slaves due to war or debt, but that changed.
  2. Wealthy societies benefited from slavery, with the middle class enjoying cheap goods thanks to the suffering of enslaved people. This created a system where profit came at a high human cost.
  3. The idea of race was used to justify slavery, making it seem like it was natural for certain groups to be enslaved. The American Civil War, while costly, was part of the struggle to end this brutal system.
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Chartbook 387: What fires burned at Auschwitz? On the place of the Holocaust in uneven and combined development.

Chartbook • 3390 implied HN points • 23 May 25
💾 History World War Holocaust Genocide Industrialization Modernity
  1. The Holocaust involved complex logistics, like using trains to transport many people to death camps. Understanding these details can help us better grasp the scale and organization of these horrific events.
  2. Many comparisons have been drawn between the Holocaust and modern industrial processes, but the reality was much different. The methods used were often crude and poorly managed, far from what we typically associate with industrial efficiency.
  3. The Holocaust wasn't just about technological advancement; it showed a dark side of modernity. It was a combination of ordinary modern elements used in a horrifying way, highlighting the contradictions in how society evolves.

The Punic Paradox: Genetically, Rome's great African rival was startlingly European

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 560 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Cultural Studies Genetics
  1. Carthage, an ancient city in North Africa, was more culturally European than originally thought. Genetic studies show its people were mainly similar to southern Italians and Greeks, not just the Levantine settlers.
  2. Carthage was a major power in the Mediterranean for centuries, excelling in trade and exploration long before Rome's rise. Their navy and commercial spirit allowed them to establish far-reaching trade routes.
  3. Despite its eventual downfall to Rome, Carthage's cultural legacy lived on. Language, religion, and traditions from Carthage continued to influence North Africa well after the city's destruction.

A Multiplicity of George Washingtons

Looking Through the Past • 178 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History American history Cultural impact Symbolism
  1. George Washington inspired a lot of merchandise right after his inauguration and even more after his death, showing how much people admired him. Many products with his image were sold as symbols of respect and inspiration.
  2. Washington's fame led to international production of memorabilia, with items created in countries like France and Germany. This shows that people beyond America were keen to celebrate his legacy.
  3. Over time, the many different images of Washington led to him becoming more of a symbol rather than a real person. While this helped unite Americans around shared values, it also made people lose sight of who he really was.

How Diocletian’s Persecution of Christians Began

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 237 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
💾 History Ancient Rome Christianity Persecution Militarism Legislation
  1. Before Diocletian, Christians in Rome mostly lived without fear of government attack. They experienced a time called 'the little peace of the Church.'
  2. Diocletian's edicts led to a serious crackdown on Christians, starting with public office removals and destroying churches. He aimed to get rid of Christianity but ended up fueling more violence.
  3. The actions of a soldier named Marcellus sparked significant persecution, but many historians think it was part of a larger struggle between old Roman beliefs and the growing Christian faith.

2,000-year-old wine and the uncanny immediacy of the past

Res Obscura • 5287 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
💾 History Archaeology Artifacts Ancient Civilizations Cultural heritage Historical Analysis
  1. Ancient artifacts like the Carmona Wine Urn help us connect with the past. They remind us that people long ago lived lives similar to ours.
  2. Discoveries like the oldest known wine show how well-preserved objects can teach us about history. They tell us more than famous artworks or historical figures.
  3. Historical artifacts like the Pazyryk Rug and the Sword of Goujian highlight everyday life in the past. They help us imagine what it was like for ordinary people back then.

When the Sackler Brothers studied LSD

Res Obscura • 2799 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
💾 History Psychedelics Medical Ethics Pharmaceuticals Mental health Scientific research
  1. The Sackler brothers, known for their later role in the opioid crisis, initially explored the potential of LSD and other psychedelic treatments in the 1950s. They even attended early scientific discussions about LSD.
  2. Despite their good intentions to improve mental health treatments, the Sacklers also recognized the financial gains from pharmaceuticals. This shift in focus highlights how idealistic motives can change when wealth is involved.
  3. The ongoing debate about psychedelics mirrors this historical pattern. As society cautiously opens up to these substances for therapy, there are concerns about commercialization, addiction, and the potential for harm.

Luther and the Spark of the Reformation

Papyrus Rampant • 178 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
💾 History Religion Education Politics Europe
  1. Martin Luther posted his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which wasn't meant to start a movement but turned out to spark the Protestant Reformation.
  2. He challenged the sale of indulgences, emphasizing that faith in God, not money, is what saves people from sin.
  3. Luther's actions led to a push for education and Bible translation, helping more people understand their faith and read scripture in their own language.

Readers Questions

Soviet Space Substack • 79 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History Engineering
  1. The Soviet Space Program had a unique decision-making structure where engineers had a lot of independence, often leading to rivalries among them. This sometimes resulted in substantial projects being undertaken without the main leadership even being aware.
  2. Soviet space art reflected their exploration efforts and has key differences from Western art. It often showcased a more optimistic view of space, while Western art varied greatly in style and representation.
  3. Many Soviet rockets had an open interstage design to ensure proper fuel settling during stage separations. This design choice was simpler compared to methods used in American rockets, allowing for more efficient launches.

How China Is Like the 19th Century U.S.

Construction Physics • 38624 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
💾 History Economic Growth Urbanization Manufacturing Cultural Change Social Dynamics
  1. Both China and the U.S. experienced rapid economic growth during their respective Gilded Ages. This growth transformed them into major manufacturing powers with urbanization and infrastructure development.
  2. As both countries industrialized, they saw a significant shift from farming to manufacturing jobs. This change created vast new opportunities for individuals and fostered a culture of ambition and entrepreneurship.
  3. In both nations, a wave of corruption and scams emerged alongside economic growth, leading to significant social and legal reforms aimed at improving conditions and regulating businesses.

Things Worth Remembering: Winston Churchill’s Christmas Message to America

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3913 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
💾 History World War Speeches Political Leaders
  1. Churchill's Christmas message during a tough time reminded people to find peace in their spirits despite the ongoing war. It's a reminder that hope can exist even in dark times.
  2. The speech shows how powerful words can inspire and unify people, especially during challenging moments in history. Great leaders use their voices to encourage others.
  3. Reflecting on Churchill's ability to lead through words makes us wonder about our current leaders. We often crave charismatic leaders who can guide us through struggles.

The end is nigh and here's why

Experimental History • 23696 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
💾 History Historical Events Psychology
  1. Many people throughout history have believed that the world is ending soon, and this is still common today. It's a way for them to make sense of their fears about death and uncertainty.
  2. People tend to focus on bad news more than good news, which makes it feel like the world is getting worse over time. Our memories also fade bad experiences more quickly, which can lead to a feeling that the past was better.
  3. There's a strange belief that today's problems are new and unprecedented when, in fact, people have complained about the same issues throughout history. This perspective can cause anxiety about the future.

Top Links 751 Thinking of history from my space. The real wage growth gap & measuring infant mortality right.

Chartbook • 443 implied HN points • 27 May 25
💾 History Historical Events Cultural History Art history Economic History Social history
  1. There's a focus on understanding history from different perspectives, which can deepen our knowledge of the past. It's important to think critically about how history is written and shared.
  2. Measuring real wage growth is a complex issue, highlighting inequalities that persist in today's economy. Knowing where wages stand can affect how we view economic progress.
  3. Infant mortality rates serve as a significant indicator of a society's health and well-being. Accurate data and measurement can help us address key social issues effectively.

DRAFT: Do Birds Do It Much Better? (Intelligence, That Is), & Other Topics Related to the Deep Substrate of Economic History

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 146 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
💾 History Economic History Cultural Evolution Intelligence Anthropology
  1. The evolution of human intelligence is tied closely to our ability to learn and communicate as a group, not just the individual brain's development.
  2. Birds and some other animals have developed intelligence in their own ways, showing that complex thinking can exist in brains much smaller than humans.
  3. Different species can reach similar levels of intelligence using different brain structures, which suggests that intelligence can evolve independently in various forms.

🎓 On the origins of the merchant class

Obsidian Iceberg • 59 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
💾 History Trade Commerce Colonization Economics Civilizations
  1. Merchants used to work for kings and leaders, getting luxury goods for them. Over time, trade changed to focus on profit rather than just serving powerful rulers.
  2. As trade expanded, merchants started catering to smaller clients. This shift led to more diverse trading networks and a wider variety of goods available.
  3. Cities grew as places of commerce, not just government. Instead of being mainly for rulers, urban areas became important for trade and economic activity.

The World Travels of a Blood-Soaked Mother Goddess

Looking Through the Past • 198 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
💾 History Religion Mythology Archaeology Civilizations
  1. Cybele was a very ancient mother goddess from Asia Minor, worshipped with wild and intense rituals, including bloodletting and self-castration by her priests.
  2. The Greeks and later Romans adopted and adapted Cybele's worship, blending her with their own deities and transforming her image from a fierce nature goddess to a more subdued Roman matriarch.
  3. Cybele's story reflects the complex views of womanhood in ancient cultures, showcasing everything from wild sexuality to dignified motherhood.

The War Film That Turned Dietrich Bonhoeffer Away From Nationalism

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 237 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
💾 History War Nationalism Theology Cinema
  1. Dietrich Bonhoeffer changed his views on nationalism after watching the antiwar film 'All Quiet on the Western Front.' It made him see the harsh realities of war and question the idea that fighting for one's country is a noble cause.
  2. Alongside a French theologian, Bonhoeffer felt sad and moved by a scene where a German soldier comforts a dying French soldier. This moment helped him understand the deep connections between people, beyond national borders.
  3. Bonhoeffer believed that being a Christian should come before national loyalty. He saw nationalism as a dangerous idea that could harm human values, showing that real bravery means standing up against harmful beliefs, not just fighting in wars.

Bess of Hardwick, mother of dynasties

Wrong Side of History • 299 implied HN points • 23 May 25
💾 History Architecture Biographies
  1. Bess of Hardwick was a powerful figure in Tudor England who built a strong dynasty through her marriages and connections. She became the richest woman of her time and left a notable legacy.
  2. She faced many challenges, including the deaths of her husbands and navigating a risky political environment. Despite this, she skillfully managed her family and properties, like Hardwick Hall and Chatsworth.
  3. Bess's life story showcases her intelligence, resilience, and ability to thrive in a male-dominated society. Her impressive homes stand as a testament to her achievements and enduring influence.

An uncivil civil war

Wood From Eden • 2016 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
💾 History Civil War Political Conflict Cultural History Social movements Nationalism
  1. Civil wars often have deep political or ideological divides. In Finland's case, it was the working class versus the upper class, which led to a very intense conflict over power.
  2. The formation of armed groups was crucial in the lead-up to the Finnish Civil War. Both the workers and the upper class created their own forces, which escalated tensions.
  3. Post-war, Finland struggled with the aftermath of the violence but eventually unified. A process of reflection and an amnesty helped rebuild society despite longstanding divisions.

Age of Invention: How Coal Really Won

Age of Invention, by Anton Howes • 2145 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💾 History Industrial Revolution Inventions Environmental Impact
  1. During the late 1500s, people in England started using coal instead of wood for heating. This change was not just about using a cheaper fuel; it actually transformed how land was used, allowing more space for crops.
  2. The rise of coal in households was influenced by advances in technology like chimneys and coal grates, which made it possible to burn coal more efficiently and with less smoke. These innovations helped shift people's preferences towards coal.
  3. Coal became popular in brewing and other industries because it was cheaper than wood. This increased demand for coal, eventually leading to a significant rise in its use in homes and cities.

A Lawful Insurrection: The Massachusetts Provincial Congress

Papyrus Rampant • 119 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
💾 History American Revolution Governance Political Movements Military History
  1. In 1774, Massachusetts set up its own government, independent from British rule, even before the American Revolution officially started. They did this peacefully and with strong community involvement.
  2. General Gage, the British governor, faced growing resistance from the people of Massachusetts. They were organizing and defying his orders, making it clear they opposed British authority.
  3. The Massachusetts Provincial Congress acted like a government by making decisions, collecting taxes, and preparing for war. Their actions laid the groundwork for the future American government and the fight for independence.

Sorry, Elon: Henry Ford Started a Colony First

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
💾 History Colonialism Economics Agriculture Management Environment
  1. Henry Ford tried to create a city called Fordlandia in the Amazon rainforest to produce rubber. He faced many challenges because the environment was very different from what he knew.
  2. The project suffered from poor living conditions, high worker turnover, and management problems, leading to riots and disease among workers. It was hard to get people to stay and work.
  3. Ultimately, the project failed to produce rubber as intended and Ford lost a lot of money. It shows how difficult it is to impose a new way of life in an unfamiliar place.

The Manhattan Project through the eyes of Fermi

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 671 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Biographies
  1. The Manhattan Project was a huge scientific effort that led to the creation of the atomic bomb during World War II. It was a mix of exciting science and a race against time, shaped by the threat of fascism.
  2. Enrico Fermi, a key figure in this project, was a brilliant yet relatable scientist. He moved from Italy to the U.S. and played a major role in nuclear research while dealing with serious issues like escaping fascism.
  3. Fermi's work led to the first successful nuclear reactor in Chicago. He showed how smart and focused scientists could change the course of history, but his story also cautions us to think about the impact of scientific advancements.

My Mormon Obsession

Castalia • 459 implied HN points • 03 Aug 24
💾 History American history Religious history Cultural Studies Political History Historical Narratives
  1. Nauvoo was a unique place in American history where Mormons created a theocratic community led by Joseph Smith. They had a different approach to politics and society compared to the individualistic American spirit.
  2. Despite facing hardships, the Mormons worked hard and grew in numbers, thanks in part to Joseph Smith's leadership and their strong community spirit. Nauvoo became a symbol of resilience for them.
  3. Joseph Smith's personal life was complex, involving multiple marriages and hidden affairs. He justified his actions through his religious beliefs, demonstrating a mix of idealism and ambition.

The nobleman versus the meritocrat

Archedelia • 4618 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
💾 History
  1. European aristocrats had a moral imperative to uphold standards for the common good.
  2. Standards ennoble all who aspire to meet them, regardless of their capacities.
  3. A French winemaking family demonstrated how the practice of service and education is passed down through generations.

Odds and Ends #56: The awkward truth about Brexit

Odds and Ends of History • 1005 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
💾 History Global events Technology impact Cultural Shifts Social Issues
  1. Brexit is a complicated issue with many underlying problems that need to be addressed. It's not just a simple matter of leave or stay, but involves a lot of factors affecting people's lives.
  2. Local governments have experienced a big change thanks to a small technical adjustment. This shows how little changes can make a huge impact in communities.
  3. The nuclear industry seems to be hesitant and not taking bold steps when needed. This raises questions about their commitment to progress and safety.

A Brief History of American Eugenics

OK Doomer • 134 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
💾 History American history Eugenics Social movements Genocide Political Ideologies
  1. In the early 1920s, there were extreme ideas about eugenics in America, like a proposal to ban marriage for anyone who wore glasses. This shows how some people believed certain traits made others a burden.
  2. The concept of eugenics wasn't just a fringe idea in America; it had support from many educated people, including doctors and lawmakers. This widespread acceptance contributed to harmful beliefs in society.
  3. Eugenics in the U.S. had a significant influence on later ideas in Germany, which ultimately led to tragic events in history. It’s a reminder of how important it is to learn from the past to avoid repeating its mistakes.

The Economist on Mao

David Friedman’s Substack • 476 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Communism Totalitarianism Intellectual history
  1. Mao Zedong is often credited for significant changes in China, but his policies caused massive suffering, including a severe famine that killed millions. It's important to look at the real consequences of his leadership, not just the positive narratives.
  2. There was a strong bias among Western intellectuals towards communism, which led to overlooking the negative impacts of Mao's rule. This shows how personal beliefs can cloud judgment about political regimes.
  3. Even reputable publications like The Economist can misjudge historical figures due to a lack of direct information. It's crucial for media to be critical and accurate, especially concerning totalitarian states.

The day the world didn't end

Experimental History • 1934 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
💾 History American history Cultural Studies Social Impact
  1. On October 22, 1844, many people believed the world would end and gathered to witness it, demonstrating the power of apocalyptic beliefs.
  2. This event led some individuals to make drastic life changes, like quitting their jobs and selling their belongings, reflecting deep faith and hope for a promised event.
  3. Despite the predictions, nothing happened that day, which caused many to feel lost or confused, highlighting the impact of failed prophecies on people's lives.

Why Is Madrid the Capital of Spain?

Uncharted Territories • 2869 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
💾 History City Development
  1. The choice of Madrid as the capital of Spain was influenced by its unique geographical position and strategic advantages.
  2. Madrid's growth as a capital city was propelled by its central location, investment in infrastructure, and well-connected transport network.
  3. Philip II's decision to make Madrid the capital had implications for urban development, political power, and economic prosperity, contributing to its transformation into a major global city.

Swindling Geologist 2 (Pt 2 of 2)

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 319 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
💾 History 19th century Biography Crime Naturalism
  1. A swindler pretended to be a geologist to steal valuable books and fossils. He was caught and went to jail but continued his con artist ways after being released.
  2. The swindler used different names and identities to deceive people and even stole microscopes from a university. His actions led to long prison sentences, but he kept going back to his old ways afterward.
  3. The success of these con artists was partly due to the trust placed in them by local naturalists and scientists. They were often seen as experts, which made their scams easier to pull off.

The US Was Right to Nuke Imperial Japan

American Dreaming • 339 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
💾 History War Politics Atrocities Imperialism Morality
  1. The use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki is often misunderstood. Many see Japan as a victim without considering the violence they inflicted in WWII.
  2. Japan was deeply committed to their imperial ambitions, making surrender unlikely. This created a difficult situation for the US, as any alternative to the bombings could have resulted in far greater loss of life.
  3. Many people are not aware of Japan's brutal wartime actions. Understanding this context can change perceptions about the necessity of the atomic bombings.