The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top History Topics

Ordinary People Do Terrible Things

Perspectives: Past, Present, and Future, by Patrick Wyman • 2535 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
💾 History Empires Genocide Military Conflict Human nature
  1. Evil acts are easily normalized throughout history by ordinary people.
  2. Ambitious rulers and conquerors had ordinary individuals as underlings to enforce their will and commit abhorrent acts.
  3. In various historical campaigns of mass violence, ordinary individuals can become willing participants in horrific acts under certain circumstances.

The Peculiar Institution, pt. 3

The Martyr Made Substack • 2063 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
💾 History
  1. European Christians felt confident in their mission to civilize based on encountering different practices in Africa and the New World.
  2. The rituals of human sacrifice and cannibalism encountered by European explorers profoundly affected them and challenged their beliefs.
  3. The discovery of human sacrifice among different cultures led to a distrustful attitude among the conquistadors and influenced their interactions with indigenous peoples.

The Rise and Fall of the Mail-Order Home

Construction Physics • 12735 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
💾 History American history Economic Impact
  1. In the early 20th century, mail-order homes became popular due to factors like railroad expansion and availability of goods in catalogs.
  2. Mail-order homes were not only limited to houses; they also included gas stations and barns.
  3. The fall of mail-order homes was attributed to competition from other building methods and advancements in construction technology.

American Heroes, 4: Sgt. William H. Carney

Journal of Free Black Thought • 21 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
💾 History U.S. History Military History Civil Rights Black History Heroism
  1. Sgt. William H. Carney was the first black American to receive the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Civil War. He showed incredible courage by holding the American flag high, even when he was wounded.
  2. Carney's actions during the Battle of Fort Wagner inspired his fellow soldiers and demonstrated his commitment to freedom and duty. He believed in not letting the flag touch the ground.
  3. After the war, Carney continued to fight for civil rights and supported other veterans, showing that his dedication went beyond the battlefield.

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.
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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.

The Peculiar Institution, pt. 2

The Martyr Made Substack • 2044 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
💾 History Slavery Religion Civilization Hierarchy Aristotle
  1. People in different eras have accepted practices that we would find morally abhorrent today.
  2. We should approach historical figures with humility, understanding they made decisions based on their limited information and context.
  3. Slavery was integral to many historical societies, viewed as a necessary part of their social and economic structures.

Gaius Marius

Classical Wisdom • 1945 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
💾 History Ancient Rome Civil War Military Leadership
  1. Gaius Marius was a significant figure in ancient Roman history who rose to power through unconventional strategies and populist support.
  2. Marius's actions led to the downfall of the Roman Republic as his rise to power and seizure of dictatorial powers shook the traditional Roman political structure.
  3. The rivalry between Gaius Marius and Sulla, and the subsequent civil wars, disrupted the balance of power in the Roman Republic and ultimately contributed to its demise.

The Peculiar Institution, pt. 4

The Martyr Made Substack • 1375 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
💾 History Colonization Exploration Empires Cultural Exchange
  1. The debate over history being driven by great individuals or impersonal forces reflects the dominant cultural and economic forces of an era.
  2. Spanish and Portuguese states were built for war, with institutions and structures geared towards conquest.
  3. The Spanish conquest of the New World was part of the same campaign as Europe's defense against Ottoman incursion.

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.

The High-Wage Thesis isn’t even wrong!

Something to Consider • 159 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
💾 History Economic History Industrial Revolution Labor Economics Technological Change
  1. The High-Wage Thesis suggests that higher wages encourage investment in technology, but this idea is poorly supported by evidence. It means that just because wages are higher, it doesn't necessarily lead to faster innovation.
  2. Instead of focusing solely on labor costs, we should consider the absolute costs of resources like coal that made certain technologies more practical. This could explain some innovations without relying on the idea of higher labor costs.
  3. The assumptions behind the High-Wage Thesis might not hold true, and questioning these assumptions can lead to a deeper understanding of economic history and industrial innovations. It shows the need for careful examination of widely accepted theories.

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.

Things Worth Remembering: The Woman Who Captured Russia’s Pain

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2949 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
💾 History World War II Cold War
  1. The historiography of World War II has shifted to highlight the significant sacrifice on the Eastern front, bringing a more balanced perspective to the contributions of all parties involved.
  2. The opening and closure of Russian archives in the 1990s, along with the translation of Vasily Grossman's works, helped reveal the full extent of the Russian sacrifice during the war.
  3. Russian artists played a crucial role in recording and reflecting the Soviet experience during the Second World War, preserving a vital part of history.

‘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.

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.

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.

January 24, 2025

Letters from an American • 28 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
💾 History Military World War II Democracy Civil Rights Political Movements
  1. The Battle of the Bulge was a major World War II fight where the German army tried to break through Allied lines. General McAuliffe famously replied 'NUTS!' when asked to surrender, showing strong resistance.
  2. After the war, the Allies worked to promote democracy and prevent fascism, creating institutions like the United Nations and NATO. They also invested in American citizens through programs like the G.I. Bill to support education and employment.
  3. In recent times, there has been concern about the dismantling of democratic principles and civil rights established post-war. Political decisions have raised fears of a shift away from the inclusivity and equality the U.S. fought for during World War II.

Fullbore Friday

CDR Salamander • 1238 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
💾 History Military World War II Awards
  1. The article discusses a submarine mission during World War II targeting a Japanese cruiser.
  2. The crew faced challenges like cramped conditions, faulty equipment, and the risk of being detected by the enemy.
  3. Despite these difficulties, the crew successfully completed the mission, showcasing bravery and teamwork.

Odds and Ends #49: How bat protection regulations broke Britain's planning system

Odds and Ends of History • 536 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
💾 History Historical Events Cultural impact Social Issues Environmental Policy
  1. Bat protection rules in the UK have complicated the planning system, causing delays and issues for construction projects.
  2. Some areas in Europe are actually doing well in terms of economic growth, contrary to common beliefs comparing them to the US.
  3. Many Netflix films are made but quickly forgotten, as the platform produces a lot of content that doesn't stick with viewers.

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.

All the ladies like whiskers

Letters of Note • 2044 implied HN points • 15 Oct 23
💾 History American history
  1. In 1860, an 11-year-old girl named Grace Bedell wrote to Abraham Lincoln suggesting he grow a beard to win votes.
  2. Abraham Lincoln replied to Grace Bedell's letter explaining he did not have any daughters and raising concerns about starting to grow a beard.
  3. Grace Bedell's simple but bold suggestion to Lincoln led to him growing a beard, meeting her, and eventually becoming President of the United States.

Odds and Ends #45: Deliverism, blasphemy and selfies from space

Odds and Ends of History • 670 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Cultural History Historical Events Digital history Social history
  1. There are interesting discussions happening around transport and how it might change in the future. A live event is planned to dive deeper into this topic with an expert.
  2. Digital transformation in government is a big challenge, but there are ways to make it work better. A new newsletter is launching to explore these issues and share helpful insights.
  3. Exploring new places can be fun, and getting travel tips for nerdy activities in New Zealand is a great way to prepare. Sharing suggestions can help make the trip more exciting.

Artemisia of Caria

Classical Wisdom • 2063 implied HN points • 26 May 23
💾 History Ancient Greece Influence
  1. Artemisia of Caria was a fascinating and feared figure in history, known for her cunning tactics and subterfuge in naval battles.
  2. Artemisia's advice to Xerxes before the Battle of Salamis was disregarded, potentially changing the course of history if he had listened.
  3. Artemisia's legacy as a strong-willed queen, conqueror, and commander challenges the norms of her time when women were often encouraged to remain anonymous.

Aeneas: Founder of Rome

Classical Wisdom • 1041 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
💾 History Mythology Ancient Rome Imperialism Morality
  1. Aeneas was a significant figure in Roman mythology, known for being the founder of Rome and embodying Roman virtues.
  2. Aeneas' story was immortalized in Virgil's epic poem, the Aeneid, which is considered one of the greatest works in Classical literature.
  3. The legend of Aeneas and his adventures was used to explain Rome's foundation, justify its empire, and promote Roman moral values.

That Time a Volcano Killed a Third of Londoners

Londonist: Time Machine • 499 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
💾 History
  1. Volcanoes have killed more people in London than in Pompeii, with a huge loss of population due to an eruption that happened far away.
  2. Medieval London suffered a significant impact from a volcanic eruption that caused a major portion of its residents to perish.
  3. The impact of historical volcanic events on populations, even those far away, can be substantial and have long-lasting consequences.

The Two Trojan Wars

Classical Wisdom • 1985 implied HN points • 19 May 23
💾 History Mythology Literature
  1. There were two Trojan Wars, with the more famous one being the second.
  2. The first Trojan War was led by Hercules and had different origins than the second.
  3. Zeus played a significant role in the root causes of the second Trojan War, manipulating events to rid the world of his potential threats.

Fullbore Friday

CDR Salamander • 1002 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
💾 History War Military World War II Navy
  1. USS Arkansas (BB-33) had a remarkable service history through two World Wars with only one casualty.
  2. Arkansas provided important gunfire support during key events like the invasion of Normandy and Operation 'Anvil'.
  3. The pilots of VCS-7, a US Navy Spotter Squadron, transitioned from float planes to flying Supermarine Spitfires during combat operations.

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.

Mongol Storms and Asian Ruins

The Oswald Spengler Project • 379 implied HN points • 13 May 24
💾 History Translation Civilizations Maps Asia
  1. Spengler's work on Ancient Asia was a significant focus of his, but much of it remains untranslated into English, limiting its accessibility.
  2. Spengler had a deep interest in cartography and envisioned a new approach to universal history through the interaction of civilizations, highlighted in his sketch 'Altasien'.
  3. Spengler's plans for a series of articles on prehistory, including 'Ancient Asia', were cut short by his premature death, leaving many of his works and ideas unfinished.

The Lost Stones of London

Londonist: Time Machine • 399 implied HN points • 08 May 24
💾 History Historical Events Archaeology Local government
  1. London's geography is linked to ancient stones like Oswald's Stone, which has been almost forgotten, highlighting the city's rich history.
  2. Historic stones in London served various purposes like marking boundaries or council meeting spots, adding unique character to the city's landscape.
  3. Despite being forgotten, remnants of ancient stones like London Stone and Wealdstone can still be found around London, connecting the modern city to its past.

How To Collect The Lost Churches Of London

Londonist: Time Machine • 359 implied HN points • 15 May 24
💾 History London Collectibles Maps Urban Development
  1. The Lost London Churches project offers 110 collectable cards depicting City of London churches, encouraging exploration of historic buildings and supporting maintenance through donations.
  2. Collectors can visit surviving churches to pick up packs of five random church cards for free, promoting a sense of discovery and community engagement.
  3. In addition to the cards, a Collector's Booklet provides detailed information about the churches and includes a beautifully reworked version of the 1677 Ogilby and Morgan map, offering a rich experience for London history enthusiasts.

The Mountains of the Moon

Cosmographia • 499 implied HN points • 11 Apr 24
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Exploration Geography
  1. Terra Phantasma is a new series exploring mysterious 'phantom lands' on ancient maps.
  2. The origin of the River Nile has puzzled great figures throughout history, with different theories and stories.
  3. Historical figures like Herodotus and Claudius Ptolemy have contributed differing explanations about the source of the River Nile.