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.

VFYW: Through A Window Darkly

The Weekly Dish • 7 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
💾 History World War II Military History Historical Events Cultural impact Historical Sites
  1. The Battle of the Bulge was a significant WWII conflict that took place in Luxembourg, marking an important turning point for the Allied forces.
  2. Luxembourg's strategic location during the war resulted in heavy fighting and notable sacrifices, with a cemetery dedicated to fallen American soldiers from that battle.
  3. The ongoing contest encourages participants to guess locations based on photos, showcasing the diversity and clever detective work of its players.

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.

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.

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.
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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.

Rome’s miserable fate

Wrong Side of History • 242 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Epidemics Cultural analysis
  1. Farming led to more people living close together, which made it easier for diseases to spread. When humans and animals are close, they can share illnesses, causing epidemics.
  2. Rome had big cities that were perfect for outbreaks of disease. These epidemics were a major reason why the Roman Empire eventually fell apart.
  3. The fall of Rome was a complicated topic with many reasons given, but one strong argument is that a number of deadly diseases wiped out a large part of its population.

The beautiful rebirth of Dresden (1)

Wrong Side of History • 356 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
💾 History War Architecture Culture Reconstruction Society
  1. Dresden experienced devastating bombing in February 1945, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of its beautiful architecture. It was once called the 'Florence on the Elbe' due to its stunning structures.
  2. The city's recovery after the war was slow, with many buildings left in ruins rather than rebuilt immediately. Some important landmarks were saved, but much of the city's true charm faded during this time.
  3. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, efforts began to restore Dresden, including the famous Frauenkirche. This restoration symbolized healing and reconciliation between nations, showcasing the enduring spirit of the city.

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.

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.

‘I say the Americans really won the war’

Wrong Side of History • 417 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
💾 History War Politics Economics Society Culture
  1. Many people in Vietnam felt that the U.S. helped them realize they preferred American presence over communism after the war. This shows how complex feelings about the war can be.
  2. After the war, Vietnam faced many issues due to communist policies that hurt its economy, leading to hunger and poverty for many years. The country struggled with efficiency and food shortages at that time.
  3. Vietnam saw a big change when it shifted towards a market-based economy in the 1980s. This led to significant economic growth and lifted many people out of poverty.

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.

When civilization control-alt-deletes: prehistoric Europe’s false dawn and long reboot

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 955 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Archaeology Cultural History Demographics
  1. History often gets viewed through a lens that says the present is better than the past. Many believe we are moving towards a brighter future, but this ignores how societies have often declined over time.
  2. Civilizations can experience drastic collapses followed by long periods of recovery, like how the Mycenaean Greeks fell into a 'Dark Age' before slowly rebuilding their culture.
  3. Ancient Europeans saw significant demographic changes, and early farmers and foragers were very different from each other. Over time, these distinct groups began to blend, showing how migration and cultural shifts shaped Europe.

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.

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.

Wealth, war and worse: plague’s ubiquity across millennia of human conquest

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 343 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
💾 History Economic History Human Evolution
  1. Plagues have played a big role in shaping human history, affecting everything from wars to economies. The Black Death, for example, changed Europe's structure and pushed it towards the Renaissance.
  2. Diseases have not only influenced cultures but also human genetics. They have forced our bodies to adapt, showing that sickness can drive evolution.
  3. Just like in the past, new diseases can lead to major shifts in society. When Europeans brought diseases like smallpox to the Americas, it weakened local populations and made them vulnerable to conquest.

Rats!

Wrong Side of History • 527 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
💾 History Epidemics Medieval Society Health Science
  1. The Black Death, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, spread through fleas that lived on black rats. These rats were common in medieval cities and facilitated the disease's transmission to humans.
  2. Symptoms of the plague could vary, with bubonic plague being the most common form, marked by painful swellings or buboes in the body. Other forms like pneumonic and septicaemic plague had even higher fatality rates.
  3. The historical records show that the plague has struck multiple times through history, leading to massive fatalities and changes in society due to the horrors it inflicted.

We are what we speak: Indo-European phylogenetic and linguistic trees concur

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 800 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
💾 History Linguistics Genetics Cultural Studies Anthropology
  1. Recent ancient DNA research has greatly advanced our understanding of the origins and evolution of Indo-European languages. This includes finding connections between ancient peoples and the languages we speak today.
  2. Studies reveal that the Yamnaya people from the Pontic steppe played a key role in spreading Indo-European languages across Eurasia. They replaced many indigenous populations, showing a significant impact on the genetics of modern Europeans.
  3. The genetic findings confirm a close relationship between our linguistic history and biological roots. This means the languages we speak can reflect our ancestral heritage.

🎓 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 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.

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.

To be young, perchance to dream

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 951 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Cultural History Economic History Social movements Nationalism
  1. The historical view of the assassination in Sarajevo changed over time depending on political climates. Initially, it was seen as justified but later viewed negatively as political perspectives shifted.
  2. The Young Bosnia movement was driven by a mix of national unity desires and social injustices. Many members came from impoverished backgrounds and sought change, inspired by various revolutionary ideas.
  3. Literature and poetry significantly influenced the Young Bosnia activists. They saw themselves as heroes and believed in dramatic actions because they felt the political system was against them.

The Worst Year Ever

Wrong Side of History • 261 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
💾 History Pandemics Epidemics Societal Impact Public Health
  1. The Black Death was a huge historical event that many people don't like to talk about because it was so depressing. Unlike wars, pandemics don't usually have inspiring stories attached to them.
  2. Most pandemics, including the Black Death, tend to be forgotten over time. This happens because, unlike wars, they don't create heroic narratives or national pride.
  3. The author originally wanted to write a book about the Plague, but felt that no one really wanted to read about pandemics due to their grim nature. Instead, they decided to share their findings as a series of posts.

The Modernity Machine

Breaking Smart • 161 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
💾 History Modernity Society Psychology Political History Cultural History
  1. Modernity may have started in the 13th century instead of the 16th, linked to global shifts in culture and politics rather than just Western advances.
  2. Technological changes affected societies worldwide, creating different modern experiences that aren't just Western but globally diverse.
  3. The relationships between classes, like monarchs and workers, have changed over centuries toward more equality, suggesting that trends towards decentralization and empowerment will continue.

Truth in the old myths

Wrong Side of History • 408 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Archaeology Mythology Cultural Studies Historical Figures
  1. Ancient myths, like those of Troy and Agamemnon, might have some truths behind them. Archaeological discoveries are showing that these stories could be based on real events.
  2. Visiting historical sites like Mycenae can inspire strong feelings about the past. It makes you think about the legends and heroes that might have lived there.
  3. New findings in DNA and archaeology challenge our view of old myths as just stories. They suggest that some of these legendary tales might have a basis in reality.

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.

Nelson in the Arctic. Polar bears, geese, and filled breeches.

The Common Reader • 744 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
💾 History Exploration Biography Maritime Science Natural History
  1. Young Nelson went to the Arctic at just 15 years old, which was unusual for boys his age. His strong desire and connections helped him join the expedition.
  2. The journey was filled with challenges, like navigating thick fog and ice that could crush their ships. Weather changed constantly, making it tough to travel.
  3. Despite the harsh conditions and dangers, the crew encountered wildlife and gathered supplies. They had to work hard and cooperate to survive in the icy environment.

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.

Influences in Nelson's early career

The Common Reader • 956 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
💾 History Biographies Military History Cultural Influences
  1. Horatio Nelson had a strong connection to the sea from a young age, inspired by the sights and sounds of ships passing by his home. This led him to start his naval career at just twelve years old.
  2. Nelson's family had a significant influence on his life and ambitions. His father's poetic nature and his mother's strong feelings, especially against the French, shaped his worldview and determination.
  3. Despite facing challenges, including illness, Nelson remained ambitious and aimed for glory throughout his career. He recognized the passage of time and worked hard to achieve his dreams.

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.