The hottest American history Substack posts right now

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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.

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.

What We’re Grateful For

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2926 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Gratitude Family Traditions American history
  1. Thanksgiving is a unique American holiday where people take a moment to express gratitude for what they have. It's a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the love and connections in our lives.
  2. Even amid political divides, it’s important to remember the value of family gatherings and shared meals. Coming together can help bridge differences and create lasting memories.
  3. Gratitude comes from various sources - from simple pleasures like good health, family, and friends, to shared experiences and creative innovations that improve our lives.

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.

READING: Hamilton's Constitutional Convention Speech

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 153 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Constitutional Law American history Government Structure Democracy issues
  1. Hamilton believed that weak state governments could harm a strong federal government. He thought a perfect government needed clear powers and strong institutions.
  2. He was worried that pure democracy could lead to chaos and tyranny. Instead, he preferred a system where some leaders held power for a longer time to ensure stability.
  3. Hamilton highlighted that the interests of states often clash with the needs of the entire nation. He suggested a government structure that aligns individual and national interests better.
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More Adorno; Trump's Paleocon Foreign Policy; Christopher Hitchens on Ross Perot

Unpopular Front • 47 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Fascism Propaganda Foreign Policy American history
  1. Adorno's ideas from his essay still resonate today. He suggests that leaders often present themselves as both powerful figures and relatable people.
  2. Fascist propaganda targets emotions rather than reason. It thrives by exploiting people's frustrations and existing beliefs without trying to change them.
  3. The concept of the 'great little man' is vital in fascist imagery, representing a leader who appears both ordinary and extraordinary, fulfilling followers' desires for authority.

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 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.

MY ANNOUNCEMENT!

TRANSFORM with Marianne Williamson • 4658 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Government Social Issues Presidential campaign American history
  1. It's time for Americans to unite and initiate a season of repair for the country.
  2. We need to understand the historical struggles and principles that define America to create a positive vision for the future.
  3. It's crucial for the people to lead and push for systemic change to address economic injustices and reinvigorate democracy.

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.

America Is a Normal Country

KERFUFFLE • 55 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy American history Political Philosophy National Identity Global relations
  1. America is no longer viewed as a unique or exceptional country compared to others. Instead, it shares many common challenges with other nations.
  2. The U.S. has a history of military interventions that often led to problems rather than solutions, making some wonder if inaction might have been better.
  3. Despite past dominance after World War II, America is now seen as an empire in decline, and it's important to recognize and adapt to this reality.

A DRAFT Syllabus for Econ 113: American Economic History :: Spring 2025 :: UC Berkeley

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 76 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🚌 Education Economic History American history Higher education Social Issues
  1. American exceptionalism is a key theme in understanding the country's economic history, exploring what makes it unique compared to other nations.
  2. The course examines significant historical events, like the rise of manufacturing and the impact of immigration, which shaped the American economy over the centuries.
  3. Inequality and economic mobility are crucial topics, focusing on how these issues have evolved from the 1940s to the present day.

Abraham Lincoln as Messiah

Something to Consider • 59 implied HN points • 04 Aug 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Mythology Historical Figures Cultural Identity American history
  1. America is often seen as a secular nation, but it actually has deep divine roots. The founding of the nation is tied to the idea of liberty, which is seen as sacred.
  2. Abraham Lincoln is viewed as a key figure for America's redemption. He is likened to a messianic figure who freed the slaves and is remembered for his ideals of equality.
  3. The National Mall symbolizes the body politic of America, with various monuments representing different aspects of governance and justice. It illustrates the connection between the nation's legacy and its core values.

Making America, Part 2

KERFUFFLE • 23 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
💾 History Cultural Studies Immigration Identity American history Political culture
  1. The term 'Scotch-Irish' was created in the mid-1800s to distinguish earlier Irish immigrants from a later wave that faced backlash. Many who identified as Scotch-Irish didn't even see themselves as Scottish, having roots in Ireland for generations.
  2. Scotch-Irish people were often Presbyterians and not as poor as the later Irish immigrants. They had jobs in industries like wool and linen in their home area of Ulster before coming to America.
  3. Over time, the Scotch-Irish began to identify more with their new American states rather than Ireland or Scotland. Their experiences reflect the idea of America as a place where people seek a better life, shedding old identities.

Photo of the Day

Photo of the Day • 235 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
💾 History World War II American history Aviation
  1. Charles Lindbergh's fame led him to live in Europe and gather intelligence on Germany's military air power.
  2. Lindbergh faced criticism for accepting an award from Herman Goring in light of increasing antisemitism and Nazi actions in Germany.
  3. Some believed Lindbergh had Nazi sympathies due to his speeches and writings upon returning to the US.

November 27, 2024

Letters from an American • 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 19, 2024 (Tuesday)

Letters from an American • 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.

The Other 9/11: Movies, Militarism, and What's Missing from Popular American Consciousness

Humanities in Revolt • 259 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics American history Government actions Media influence
  1. The Department of Defense has been involved in movie making for over 100 years, ensuring accurate depictions of military rituals but paying less attention to ethical complexities and personal suffering.
  2. Blockbuster Hollywood movies often present idyllic visions of U.S. military policies and warfare, obscuring the nation's global role and historical interventions in other governments.
  3. The movie 'Missing' is a rare exception in Hollywood, shedding light on governmental and military abuses of power, highlighting the power of film in revealing truth and challenging prevailing representations.

Lincoln's Birthday.

News Items • 255 implied HN points • 12 Feb 23
💾 History American history
  1. President Abraham Lincoln focused on healing a divided nation in his second inaugural address.
  2. Lincoln's second inauguration was only 41 days before his assassination.
  3. The speech is engraved on the north interior wall of the Lincoln Memorial.

November 23, 2024

Letters from an American • 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.

Mongols of North America

Wood From Eden • 528 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
💾 History American history Colonialism
  1. The Comanche people used the arrival of horses on the plains to develop a new way of life centered around horses and hunting bison from horseback.
  2. The Spanish colony of New Mexico had to resort to cooperation and appeasement with the Comanche, offering lavish gifts in exchange for peace and stopping raiding.
  3. The decline of the bison population due to hunting by commercial buffalo hunters in the 1870s was a decisive blow to the Comanche economy, leading to their ultimate decline and confinement to reservations.

November 17, 2024

Letters from an American • 21 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
💾 History American history Industrialization Modernization
  1. In 1883, the U.S. switched to a standard time system with five time zones to simplify train schedules. Before this, there were 53 different time schedules, which caused a lot of confusion.
  2. The change was controversial because many people were used to following the sun for their daily routines. They felt that the new system was too modern and even went against traditional timekeeping customs.
  3. On the day of the switch, people expected chaos but were surprised when the transition happened quietly without major issues. The newspapers simply noted how the new time would align different cities with standard time.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 10.01.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Geopolitics Military American history
  1. Trump is pushing for the U.S. to take control of Greenland, seeing it as important for national security and resources. Greenland has valuable minerals and is strategically located for trade routes.
  2. There is a serious conflict between U.S.-backed groups and Turkey-backed groups in Syria. This fighting is causing many casualties, highlighting the area's ongoing struggles and the importance of water resources.
  3. Concerns are growing in Europe about their influence, especially if the U.S. threatens allies like Denmark. This situation makes European nations feel vulnerable, as they rely heavily on the U.S. for security.

The North African Campaign

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
💾 History Military History World War II American history International relations Political strategy
  1. The US rapidly expanded its military during World War II, increasing defense spending significantly. This level of spending set a trend that still affects American politics today.
  2. US commanders realized that prior peacetime training was not enough, which led to the idea of 'limited war' for better preparation. They believed that past peace movements partly caused the need for total war.
  3. During the North African Campaign, the US learned the importance of intelligence operations and made some questionable alliances for strategic benefits. They also recognized the formidable capabilities of the German military and the challenges they posed.

McClellan of the Cascades

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 359 implied HN points • 02 Feb 23
💾 History American history Civil War Exploration Geography Naturalism
  1. George McClellan was a Civil War general sent to scout a railroad route through the Cascade Mountains, but he ended up getting lost and misidentifying key passes.
  2. Despite his errors, McClellan was a keen observer of nature, documenting plants and geological features, and he had some interesting insights about the local environment.
  3. His journey reveals the importance of local knowledge, as his Indigenous guides warned him about deep snow, which he failed to appreciate, leading to his mistaken conclusions.

An alternate American political spectrum

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Spectrum American history
  1. The American political spectrum can be viewed in terms of economic policies benefiting the Haves (Right) versus the Have Nots (Left) and cultural divisions between Red and Blue regions.
  2. Historical figures like Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton represent the rural, traditionalist Red America, and urban, progressive Blue America, respectively, shaping the early political landscape.
  3. Over time, political parties shifted positions on economic and cultural axes, leading to the evolution of Red and Blue identities, with Republicans holding a stronger position in the current political landscape.

The mysterious case of the story of the attempted theft of George Washington’s skull

Something interesting • 4 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
💾 History American history Historical Figures
  1. There is an empty tomb for George Washington in the Capitol Building, which is pretty interesting trivia. It reminds us that history is filled with strange stories that often aren't taught in schools.
  2. The story of an attempted theft of Washington's skull is shrouded in mystery and confusion. Many accounts exist, but it's hard to tell what really happened and if it was just a tall tale.
  3. Researching historical claims can lead you down convoluted paths. Finding reliable sources is often challenging, as many footnotes don't lead to clear evidence or verifiable facts.

February 11, 2024

Letters from an American • 16 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
💾 History American history Civil War Equality Presidents
  1. Abraham Lincoln believed in the principle of equality and fought to preserve American democracy during a tumultuous period.
  2. Lincoln challenged the arguments that limited equality to certain groups by emphasizing the importance of equality before the law for all individuals.
  3. In the midst of the Civil War, Lincoln highlighted the critical need for the nation to uphold the values of equality and government of the people, by the people, for the people.

History Extra for November 3, 2024

Letters from an American • 1 implied HN point • 04 Nov 24
💾 History American history Civil Rights Political History
  1. Abraham Lincoln used math to challenge the idea of slavery. He argued that if one person can claim the right to enslave another, then the enslaved person can claim the same right to fight back.
  2. The Kansas-Nebraska Act and its impact were significant factors in the lead-up to the Civil War. This act showed how divided the nation was over the issue of slavery.
  3. Lincoln’s thoughts on slavery reflect a deeper moral question about rights and freedom. It sparked important conversations about who holds power and who should have rights.

The Ostrich: America’s Once and Future Bird

Bird History • 0 implied HN points • 29 Aug 23
💾 History American history Economic History
  1. In the late 1800s, there was a boom in ostrich farming in America due to high demand for ostrich feathers, which were a luxury accessory for women's fashion.
  2. Ostrich farming proved to be a profitable business, with each ostrich feather fetching up to $5, leading to a surge in ostrich farms and tourist attractions around them.
  3. The domestic ostrich industry saw a revival in the 1980s, but it eventually collapsed due to a speculative bubble, showing the cyclical nature of ostrich farming in America.