Letters from an American $5 / month

'Letters from an American' is a newsletter by Heather Cox Richardson that delves into the historical context behind current political events and societal changes. It emphasizes the importance of community, democracy, and personal reflections on nature, peace, and heroism, while also documenting the author's personal experiences and thoughts amidst the political landscape.

Political History Democracy and Society Personal Reflections Community Engagement Historical Perspectives on Current Events

Top posts of the year

And their main takeaways

Unauthorized Use of my Name

44 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Opinion Media Ethics Activism Political Identity
  1. The author has not supported or endorsed any events using their name. They want to make it clear that they do not know the event organizers.
  2. If the author decides to support something, they will personally announce it through their own social media or posts.
  3. The author is addressing confusion among people who are reaching out and clarifying their stance on the unauthorized use of their name.

January 19, 2025

40 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights History Social justice Leadership Activism
  1. Heroism isn't about being perfect or doing grand things; it's about regular people choosing to help others, even when it's hard.
  2. Great figures in history, like Martin Luther King Jr. and Anne Frank, acted bravely in dangerous situations without seeking fame.
  3. We still have heroes today who quietly do the right thing in their everyday lives, even if we don't always see them.

December 28, 2024

33 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
💾 History U.S. History Indigenous Peoples Historical Events
  1. The Wounded Knee Massacre was a tragic event where many Lakota people were killed by soldiers after a tense situation escalated. It all started over a fight for a gun that symbolized survival for the Lakota.
  2. On the day before the massacre, the Lakota leader Sitanka urged his people to surrender for their safety. This moment was crucial and could have led to a peaceful resolution instead of violence.
  3. Reflection on history shows that while we can't change the past, we always have the power to shape a better future and learn from our mistakes.

November 8, 2024

30 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Policy Immigration Economy History
  1. Many Trump voters are surprised to find out that tariffs will increase prices, like gaming consoles going up significantly in cost. This raises questions about the effectiveness of Trump's policies.
  2. Voters who chose Trump for economic relief are unhappy with his harsh immigration policies that threaten their undocumented friends and family. This highlights a disconnect between voter expectations and the reality of Trump's agenda.
  3. Right-wing media plays a major role in shaping how voters perceive issues, often spreading misinformation. It's important to understand how this affects political choices and voter awareness.

December 31, 2024

30 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Current Events Public Opinion Political History Civic engagement
  1. The best part of the year was meeting many people while traveling across the country. Connecting with others made the year feel special and meaningful.
  2. Gratitude is important, and the support from others is deeply appreciated. It highlights the value of community and shared experiences.
  3. The red skies at sunset can be seen as a sign of hope. Looking forward, it's good to stay positive and hopeful for the future.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

February 23, 2025

29 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Political parties Political Analysis
  1. People are starting to see through the lies of powerful figures like Trump and Musk, realizing their true goal is personal gain over the public good.
  2. Despite public backlash, Trump and his allies are intensifying their actions, showing a disregard for the law and popular opinion.
  3. Senators and historians warn that we are facing a serious threat to democracy and the Constitution, urging Congress to act to protect our government from becoming an unchecked power.

November 3, 2024

29 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections History Democracy Political parties Social movements
  1. History shows that small groups can seize power, but ordinary people can rise up and reclaim democracy. We need to remember that average citizens have the strength to push back against injustice.
  2. The fight for democracy is ongoing. Just like in the past, it's important to unite and defend our rights, creating coalitions to stand against those who want to take away our freedoms.
  3. We have a choice in shaping the future of our democracy. It's up to each of us to decide whether we will support those who believe in equality or those who want to rule over others.

November 6, 2024

29 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Government Public Opinion Political Campaigns
  1. Donald Trump was reelected as president over Kamala Harris, surprising many since he has faced serious legal issues. The election showed a strong shift back to Trump's leadership despite concerns about his past actions.
  2. Voters seemed to connect their economic frustrations to the Democrats, leading many to support Trump. Issues like inflation played a big role in this decision, highlighting dissatisfaction with the current administration.
  3. The rise of misinformation and right-wing media has significantly influenced public perception. Many voters may not realize the full implications of their choice, leading to potential surprises about the policies Trump is likely to pursue.

January 26, 2025

28 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Public Policy Political Rhetoric Civil Rights
  1. Abraham Lincoln warned that the biggest threat to the U.S. comes from within, not from outside forces. He believed that if we let the rule of law slip away, we might end up destroying our own democracy.
  2. Lincoln emphasized the importance of respecting the law and said that while some laws may be bad, the overall structure of law is essential for a functioning society. He called for Americans to protect the rule of law as if it were a sacred duty.
  3. He also noted that success can lead to complacency. Ambitious individuals might seek fame through destruction instead of building, making it vital for everyone to use reason and moral judgment to maintain democracy.

February 8, 2025

28 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Funding Government Efficiency Political Accountability Public Health
  1. The NIH has changed its funding policy, now limiting indirect costs to 15%, which could hurt research universities.
  2. States heavily reliant on federal grants, especially Republican states, might face large funding losses due to these new caps.
  3. Federal workers emphasize their significant roles in society, sharing personal stories that highlight their contributions to public safety and welfare.

January 24, 2025

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.

January 31, 2025

28 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Social movements History Legislation Government actions
  1. Julia Ward Howe wrote the 'Battle Hymn of the Republic' during the Civil War, capturing the fight for freedom and defining it as a holy cause. It became an anthem for the Union troops.
  2. On February 1, 1960, students protested against segregation at a Woolworth's lunch counter, sparking the sit-in movement that led to desegregation in public spaces.
  3. February 1 was later recognized as the first day of Black History Month, but by 2025, the U.S. government's stance on diversity and inclusion programs showed the ongoing struggles for equality.

February 3, 2025

27 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Elections Billionaires Federal Agencies Constitution
  1. Elon Musk is gaining unprecedented control over U.S. government functions, bypassing Congress and making cuts to important programs. This raises concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of a private citizen.
  2. Recent actions by Musk's team have compromised security in various government departments and accessed sensitive information about citizens and businesses. This could threaten both privacy and national security.
  3. Trump’s announcement of tariffs has caused economic turmoil, with market reactions showing significant concern. This has led to uneasy agreements with neighboring countries to avoid immediate crisis, highlighting the unpredictable nature of his economic strategies.

February 11, 2025

27 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Elections Political parties Social Issues
  1. Abraham Lincoln believed that government should help people do things they can't do alone, like building roads and schools. He thought a strong government could support democracy and protect everyone's rights.
  2. Progressive leaders, like Theodore Roosevelt, expanded government roles to protect people from big businesses that harmed them. They aimed to ensure individuals had access to education, health care, and a clean environment.
  3. Over time, some people began to reject the idea of an active government, claiming it was un-American. Today, there are ongoing debates about how much the government should help everyday people versus the interests of the wealthy.

February 7, 2025

26 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Constitution Elections Political parties Legislation
  1. People are really upset and making a lot of calls to their representatives about how Trump and Musk are changing government rules and invading privacy. The number of calls has skyrocketed from 40 to 1,600 per minute.
  2. Senator Angus King is worried that the current government actions are damaging the U.S. Constitution. He believes the system was designed to prevent too much power from being in one place, and right now, that balance is at risk.
  3. A federal judge blocked the Trump administration from putting thousands of USAID workers on leave, which highlights concerns about the legitimacy of claims against that agency. There are fears about data security and oversight in the government.

February 21, 2025

26 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Polls Public Opinion Policy
  1. Elon Musk's influence in Trump's administration seems to be unpopular with many Americans. A lot of people think he's overstepping and worried about privacy issues.
  2. Trump's approval ratings are low, with many Americans disapproving of his actions, like budget cuts and treatment of immigrants. Even some Republicans oppose his pardons for Capitol riot offenders.
  3. State governors are pushing back against Trump's approach, asserting the need for rule of law and refusing to comply with his directives like those affecting transgender athletes.

February 1, 2025

26 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Elections Legislation Civil Rights Political parties
  1. Donald Trump's supporters are trying to dismantle the federal government. They want revenge on anyone who held him accountable, making it hard for him and his allies to face the law.
  2. There's a group that wants to change how the U.S. government treats its citizens, favoring certain groups while discriminating against others. This includes targeting transgender individuals and limiting rights based on race and gender.
  3. Elon Musk and other wealthy backers aim to control government resources for their own needs. They're pushing for big cuts to federal aid and trying to access sensitive government systems, which raises concerns about security and legality.

December 27, 2024

26 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Election Dynamics Cultural Issues
  1. There is a split among MAGA Republicans. Traditional MAGAs focus on anti-immigrant views, while new MAGAs, led by tech billionaires, want less government regulation, especially in business.
  2. Elon Musk is facing backlash from traditional MAGA supporters for hiring immigrants and foreign workers for tech jobs. They believe these positions should go to American workers instead.
  3. The friction between these two MAGA factions indicates trouble for Trump’s administration. Their conflicting interests show that the coalition may not hold together once he takes office.

December 24, 2024

25 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Social Issues Public Policy Community
  1. Holidays can be a time for gratitude. It's nice to appreciate what we have, like a warm home and good food.
  2. Not everyone feels the joy of the season. Some people struggle during the holidays, and that's important to remember.
  3. Christmas symbolizes hope and renewal. It's a time when the days start getting longer, reminding us that brighter times are ahead.

February 2, 2025

25 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Public Policy Elections Political parties International relations
  1. Elon Musk's team has taken control of the U.S. Treasury's payment system, which manages a lot of money and financial info. This raises serious questions about security and who has access to sensitive government data.
  2. Musk's group, made up of young engineers with little experience, seems to have bypassed legal authority to take over government functions. This situation feels like a serious threat to democracy and government integrity.
  3. Trump has initiated a trade war by imposing hefty tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, which is causing a backlash from those countries. This could lead to higher prices and job losses for Americans due to retaliatory measures.

February 15, 2025

25 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Regulation Elections Public Opinion
  1. After WWII, most Americans wanted more government involvement to support businesses and civil rights, but some groups pushed against this idea. They argued that helping minorities was unfair to hardworking white taxpayers.
  2. Many voters still support government programs like Social Security and education, despite claims of government waste and inefficiency. Polls show a majority believe the U.S. should spend more on these services.
  3. Recent federal job cuts, ordered by Trump and Musk, are impacting vital programs, including those that help farmers and healthcare. This could hurt many supporters, especially in Republican areas that rely on these services.

November 16, 2024

25 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Political History Civil Rights Federal Funding Public Opinion
  1. The Department of Education mainly collects statistics and provides funding, but it does not create school curriculums. It helps disadvantaged schools and oversees student loans.
  2. Many conservatives want to eliminate the Department of Education because they believe it promotes ideologies they oppose, especially around race and gender. This push is also linked to a broader movement against perceived government control over education.
  3. Education is seen as critical for democracy, meaning an educated public can better understand and evaluate government policies. Historical figures like Thomas Jefferson emphasized the importance of educating the masses to safeguard freedom.

February 4, 2025

25 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Elections Political parties Civil Rights
  1. A young engineer gained access to crucial U.S. government systems, which could allow him to disrupt major government payments. This raised serious concerns about security and control over federal funds.
  2. Elon Musk's team is planning to use AI to change government software, which might lead to security risks. There are worries that using AI could unintentionally create vulnerabilities in sensitive systems.
  3. There is increasing tension over Musk's influence on government programs and potential illegal actions. Protests and legal efforts are rising to push back against what many see as an overreach of power.

November 19, 2024 (Tuesday)

25 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil War American history Political Legacy National Identity
  1. The Battle of Gettysburg was a major event in the American Civil War, involving around 150,000 soldiers and resulting in thousands of deaths.
  2. President Lincoln gave a short but powerful speech at the dedication of a national cemetery, emphasizing equality and the need for a 'new birth of freedom.'
  3. Lincoln's address highlighted the importance of honoring those who died and urged the living to continue fighting for democracy and equality.

February 9, 2025

25 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive Power Constitution Legislation Judiciary Political parties
  1. The Second Amendment is seen by some as essential for protecting all rights, but the right to vote for lawmakers is really the foundation of our freedoms.
  2. Despite having the power to change laws, some leaders are choosing to make decisions without involving Congress, which undermines democratic processes.
  3. There's a growing concern that certain individuals, like Elon Musk and political leaders, are trying to consolidate power for their own interests, which could harm public services and protections for citizens.

January 25, 2025

25 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Political Analysis Political parties
  1. Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host with questionable background, has become the Secretary of Defense. His confirmation shows how politics may override qualifications in important government roles.
  2. Trump's actions of firing multiple inspectors general raise legal concerns. These watchdogs help keep departments accountable, and their removal could signify a dangerous trend in political power use.
  3. A recent poll indicates that many people, even some Republicans, think relying on billionaires for advice is bad. This suggests that concerns about class influence in politics are becoming relevant again.

February 14, 2025

25 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Justice Elections Corruption Public Policy
  1. There are serious issues in the Department of Justice about whether to follow the law or support Trump. Many lawyers have resigned due to pressure to drop federal charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
  2. The chaos in the DOJ is similar to a past event where officials resisted orders from the president to protect the law. It shows the tension between doing what is right and protecting political interests.
  3. Protests are happening because the Trump administration removed certain references to LGBTQ+ rights from a historic monument's website. Activists are standing up to keep the history and contributions of LGBTQ+ persons recognized.

January 30, 2025

24 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Government Elections Public Safety Trump administration
  1. An American Airlines jet collided with a military helicopter over Washington, D.C., leading to a tragic crash with no survivors. It's a reminder of how quickly life can change.
  2. President Trump blamed others for the crash instead of taking responsibility, saying it was due to poor decisions made by previous administrations. This reflects his ongoing criticism of government regulations.
  3. The Trump administration has made significant changes to federal positions and safety protocols, with reports indicating that critical air traffic control operations were understaffed at the time of the accident.

November 22, 2024

24 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Presidency Political History Social movements Legislation
  1. President Kennedy's visit to Texas in 1963 was meant to unite the Democratic Party amidst tensions regarding civil rights. He faced strong opposition from white supremacists for supporting Black rights.
  2. The violent protests at the University of Mississippi highlighted the intense backlash against federal support for civil rights, which many equated with communism at the time.
  3. The tragic events of November 22, 1963, not only marked Kennedy's assassination but also revealed the personal pain of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who insisted on showing the world the brutality of the attack.

February 16, 2025

24 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies International relations Government Policy Political Commentary
  1. JD Vance delivered a strong critique of European values at the Munich Security Conference, claiming they're under threat not from outside forces, but from within.
  2. There are rising concerns about the push towards far-right ideologies in the U.S. and abroad, with influential figures like Elon Musk supporting these movements.
  3. The current U.S. administration's stance on Ukraine is unclear, with some leaders expressing support for Ukraine while others seem to align with Russian interests.

February 20, 2025

24 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Public Policy Health care
  1. The current stability in America has allowed extreme views to grow. Some people don't realize how bad life could be without the freedoms and health protections we have.
  2. Cuts to government jobs under the Trump administration are affecting many, including veterans. These cuts contradict the claims that the government is wasting money.
  3. Recent actions in politics show that some lawmakers are not recognizing the dangers of authoritarianism. This could lead to serious issues if people aren't aware of the past mistakes made regarding freedom and democracy.

January 28, 2025

24 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Electoral Politics Civil Service Executive Power Foreign Aid
  1. Trump's Project 2025 aims to turn federal agencies into places with loyal supporters instead of nonpartisan civil servants. This plan seeks to expand presidential power and promote a strong executive control over the government.
  2. The new rules from Trump's administration allow him to remove civil service protections for many federal workers, forcing them to follow his orders or risk losing their jobs. This is seen as a significant threat to the independence of federal agencies like the Department of Justice.
  3. The Trump administration has paused federal grants and loans, creating uncertainty for many programs that aid communities. Critics argue this move undermines important services and threatens lives, showing a blatant disregard for laws established by Congress.

January 22, 2025

23 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Civil Rights Political Commentary Law enforcement Legislation Government actions
  1. Trump recently pardoned many people involved in the January 6 riots. This has caused fear in victims, like Jackson Reffitt, whose father is now free and made threats against him.
  2. The Trump administration has shut down programs aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in the federal government. Some long-standing civil rights efforts are being paused, affecting many communities.
  3. Trump's plans for the future involve a mix of pulling back existing programs and vague promises. He seems focused on making changes quickly, but it will be tough to actually enforce these plans.

December 14, 2024

23 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis History Current Events Government Social Commentary
  1. Spending time with family and friends is valuable and can make for a lovely day. It's important to prioritize connections with loved ones.
  2. Winter sunrises can be incredibly beautiful and are worth appreciating. Nature has a way of providing stunning views that can lift spirits.
  3. An early bedtime can be refreshing and a good way to end a nice day. Taking care of yourself is important for wellbeing.

January 23, 2025

23 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Judiciary Political parties
  1. President Trump recently defended his pardons for January 6 rioters, but many judges and reports reveal the violence at the Capitol was severe, with numerous officers injured. This has raised concerns about the legitimacy of these pardons.
  2. Trump's pardons seem to encourage January 6 rioters to pursue political positions, showcasing how loyalty to Trump may be used as a badge of honor in upcoming elections.
  3. There are ongoing legal challenges against Trump's executive orders, including attempts to end birthright citizenship. Many judges and states are pushing back against policies they view as unconstitutional.

December 6, 2024

23 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History War history Democracy Fascism Civil Rights
  1. Doris Miller showed incredible courage during the Pearl Harbor attack, stepping up to serve and protect others despite his lack of training in combat. He became a symbol of bravery and equality.
  2. The fight during World War II was not just against fascism but also for democracy and equality as stated in the Declaration of Independence. Many diverse groups fought together to defend these ideals.
  3. Today, there are concerns that democracy is once again under threat by leaders who aim to impose their will and suppress others. It's important to recognize the value of equality and stand against such actions.

January 20, 2025

23 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Corruption Public Policy Presidency
  1. Trump launched his own cryptocurrency right before his inauguration, making billions almost overnight. This raised big questions about ethics and how money can flow directly to a sitting president.
  2. During his inaugural speech, Trump repeated many of his campaign's false claims and made promises to take drastic actions like pulling the U.S. out of international agreements. This showed he plans to stick with his original agenda.
  3. Biden granted pardons to several individuals caught up in political controversies, emphasizing the importance of protecting reputations during investigations. This was a notable move right before leaving office.

November 27, 2024

22 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Historical Analysis American history Political Events
  1. Thanksgiving started as a shared celebration between Pilgrims and Indigenous people, but many stories about its origins have been forgotten over time.
  2. The holiday took on new meaning during the Civil War as President Lincoln encouraged Americans to give thanks while acknowledging the struggles of the country.
  3. Lincoln's thanksgivings were about uniting the nation and celebrating progress, including the end of slavery and a growing economy, even amid war.

November 23, 2024

22 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Current Events American history Political culture Election Analysis
  1. Every season brings a unique vibe. Autumn, for example, mixes a sense of fun with simplicity and beauty.
  2. There’s an ongoing cycle of work and rest in life. After the busy months, it’s important to take quiet moments to recharge.
  3. Nature and daily life are closely connected. As the seasons change, so do the activities and experiences we encounter.

February 19, 2025

22 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government International relations Defense
  1. The U.S. is shifting its support away from Ukraine and leaning towards Russia, which is causing concerns about international alliances. This change in support reflects the interests of former President Trump rather than the American people's wishes.
  2. Negotiations between the U.S. and Russia have started, but Ukraine is being excluded from these talks. This raises questions about Ukraine's future sovereignty and whether peace can be achieved without their involvement.
  3. American military and political leaders are worried that Trump's approach is weakening NATO and could lead to further Russian aggression in Europe. There is a call for stronger unity among European nations to counter this threat.