The hottest Historical context Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

Niall Ferguson: J.D. Vance’s Fighting Words—Against Me and Ukraine

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7892 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Negotiations Political Discourse Historical context
  1. Wars can start easily, but they are tough to end. It's important to understand this reality of history.
  2. Negotiating peace is necessary when fighting can't settle the conflict. Excluding one side from talks can hinder progress.
  3. Recent actions by government officials suggest a shift in their approach to the Ukraine conflict, indicating possible challenges ahead.

Victor Davis Hanson: Can Trump Troll His Way to a Peace Deal in Ukraine?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3130 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Debate International relations Conflict analysis Media Criticism Historical context
  1. There is a debate among conservatives about Trump's comments on Ukraine and its president, Zelensky. Some believe Trump's words were inappropriate, while others argue the historical situation is different.
  2. Niall Ferguson criticized Trump's approach by referencing George H.W. Bush's strong response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. Ferguson felt Trump should not have called Zelensky a dictator.
  3. J.D. Vance defended Trump by saying that the situations facing Trump and Bush were not the same. He suggested that entering a war against a nuclear power is more complicated than dealing with Iraq's weaker military.

Asia's Great Power Wars

ChinaTalk • 815 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Historical context Conflict resolution
  1. East Asian countries have a long history of peaceful coexistence, unlike Europe, where wars were common. They managed to build relationships based on respect and understanding, even with power imbalances.
  2. Many conflicts in East Asia were driven by internal issues rather than outside threats. Most dynasties fell because of internal problems, showing that the real danger often comes from within rather than from other nations.
  3. The idea that smaller nations have to band together against a bigger power like China isn't always true. East Asian countries often engage with China on their own terms, navigating relationships carefully without treating it as a direct threat.

My Survey of 16 Classic Works of New Journalism

The Honest Broker • 15725 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Journalism Non-fiction Cultural criticism Writing Techniques Historical context
  1. Journalism is changing fast, and traditional media must adapt to survive. Many new outlets are thriving while others struggle and lay off staff.
  2. New Journalism from the 1960s and 70s changed the way stories were told. It blended facts with storytelling, making journalism more engaging.
  3. Today, writers can explore bold stories without corporate limits. This encourages new voices to emerge and could lead to the next generation of impactful journalism.

Does Jane Austen hate you?

The Common Reader • 1488 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Classics Feminism Cultural analysis Historical context
  1. Jane Austen used satire to challenge and criticize society, rather than simply portraying it in a positive light. Her works often reveal her disdain for social norms and the people who uphold them.
  2. Austen's characters often provoke a sense of superiority in readers, showing their flaws in a humorous way. This allows readers to laugh at their shortcomings but also reflects Austen's complicated feelings about her society.
  3. Critics like W.D. Harding and Marvin Mudrick examined Austen's work with different perspectives, highlighting her use of irony and the psychological complexity of characters over moral judgments.
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Time for NATO to Retire?

Glenn’s Substack • 1199 implied HN points • 24 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies Geopolitics Military Alliances Historical context
  1. NATO is seen by some as outdated and stuck in Cold War thinking. It focuses on dividing the world into good and evil, which may not lead to real security.
  2. The expansion of NATO has created conflicts rather than resolving them. This approach often leads to more militarization and tensions with countries like Russia.
  3. There's a call for a new way of thinking about security that includes cooperation with former adversaries instead of forming exclusive military alliances.

Top Links 642 Debunking US exceptionalism. The global relationship recession. Game engines & Adorno's precarious happiness.

Chartbook • 658 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Historical context Media Relations Public Opinion
  1. The idea of American exceptionalism is being questioned and challenged more than ever. Many are beginning to see that America's issues are similar to those faced by other countries.
  2. There is a current global relationship recession, meaning that countries and nations are struggling to connect and cooperate like before. This can lead to more isolation and tension worldwide.
  3. Game engines are being discussed in the context of philosophical ideas, particularly about happiness. It's interesting to see how technology and deeper thoughts about life can intersect.

My Search for Hidden Meanings in Beatles Songs

The Honest Broker • 18617 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎶 Music Song analysis Censorship Cultural impact Historical context
  1. Before the internet, people had to guess or argue about the meanings of popular songs because there was no easy way to find accurate information.
  2. Songs by bands like The Beatles were often seen as puzzles. Listeners searched for hidden meanings because they felt there was something important to uncover.
  3. Today, easy access to explanations can lessen the mystery of music, but that sense of exploration and surprise from trying to understand a song is valuable.

What will become of the Sensitive Young Men?

Wrong Side of History • 432 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural analysis International relations Historical context
  1. Sensitive young men feel a strong connection to political figures like Trump. They believe that attempts to stop him reflect a broader struggle against their own experiences in society.
  2. There is a growing discussion about how sexual repression might play a crucial role in building civilizations, rather than causing issues as commonly thought.
  3. Political changes often arise from crises. People are more willing to accept big changes when they're facing hardship, making them more open to new ideas.

All Of Western Civilization Owns This Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2570 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Historical context Imperialism
  1. Blaming the Gaza genocide solely on Jews ignores the larger role of Western civilization in these events. This issue is not just about religious groups but about our society's behaviors and choices.
  2. The narrative that all problems stem from Jews is often used by far-right ideologies to avoid confronting the true nature of Western civilization, which has a history of violence and oppression.
  3. It's important to recognize the broader context of conflict, including Western imperialism's role in global injustices. Acknowledging our collective responsibility can lead to a path toward healing and positive change.

Context Collapse is a very bad poem.

The Common Reader • 2657 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Criticism Modernism Literary theory Historical context
  1. The poem _Context Collapse_ lacks real poetic qualities, reading more like flat prose than verse. It doesn't have rhythm or flow, making it hard to see it as true poetry.
  2. Many lines in the poem are filled with clichés and tired phrases, which stifle creativity. The use of overly familiar language takes away from any potential wit or originality.
  3. The poem seems to take itself too seriously despite claiming to be a 'mock-academic' work. It ends up being more of a pastiche than a clever commentary.

Fields of my ancestors

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 958 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🏝 Travel Cultural Exploration Personal journey Historical context
  1. Visiting rural areas in China, like Baoying, reveals a slice of traditional life that many people don't see. These places hold deep family histories that tell stories of resilience over time.
  2. Ancestral worship is very important in Chinese culture, highlighting the strong connection people have with their roots. Visiting family graves is a meaningful part of reconnecting with the past.
  3. Many villages are facing challenges due to aging populations and changing lifestyles. The sense of community is still strong, but there are concerns about the future of these areas as younger generations move away.

Walking Warsaw

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 1686 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Cultural Exploration Historical context Urban life
  1. Warsaw feels very planned and tidy, but lacks the vibrant, chaotic energy found in other Eastern European cities. The author felt the city was missing its unique charm and buzz.
  2. Despite being safer and richer now, Warsaw's modern look makes it feel like any other wealthy European city. This blandness raises questions about cultural identity and what is lost in progress.
  3. The city's history as a site of trauma from WWII and communist rule still impacts its atmosphere today. The author reflects on how deeply the scars of the past can affect a place long after the events have ended.

Someone Else's Problem

The Future, Now and Then • 541 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Accountability Election interference Government Response Historical context
  1. Powerful people often avoid taking responsibility, hoping someone else will deal with tough issues. This leads to inaction during critical moments, like after the January 6th attack.
  2. Many leaders recognized the seriousness of the January 6th events but chose to prioritize their personal interests instead. They believed it was easier to ignore the problem than to confront it directly.
  3. The consequences of neglecting urgent issues can impact everyone. When leaders pass the buck, the problems become bigger and harder for society to address in the future.

READING: Martin Luther King, Jr. (1958): Out of the Long Night

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 192 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Social justice Race relations Historical context
  1. Nonviolent resistance is a powerful way to fight for justice. It focuses on love and understanding instead of anger and violence.
  2. The struggle for freedom and equality will keep going until everyone is free. People who face injustice have a strong desire to fight for their rights.
  3. It's important for everyone, especially churches, to stand against racism and inequality. Many people stay quiet, and that can be just as harmful.

Individual Lies

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 133 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays Philosophy Author analysis Political Commentary Historical context
  1. Small lies might seem harmless, but they can build up and lead to bigger problems later. It's better to confront uncomfortable truths today than to delay them.
  2. George Orwell's work teaches us the importance of honesty in writing and in life. Fighting for truth, even in small details, is crucial for true understanding.
  3. Choosing to go along with popular opinions or easy paths can harm your values. It's important to know your own beliefs before facing pressure from others.

Yes, America should absolutely annex Greenland

The Dossier • 276 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics National Security Foreign Relations Historical context
  1. Greenland is very valuable because it has a lot of natural resources and is important for national security. If another country like China controls it, it could be bad for the U.S.
  2. The idea of annexing Greenland is similar to how the U.S. has expanded in the past, like with the Louisiana Purchase and Alaska. It could shape the future of the country.
  3. Negotiating for Greenland could be a major focus for the new president, and it might cement his legacy in a significant way, just like past leaders who made big territorial changes.

Everything is broken, right on schedule

Startup Strategies • 128 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Social Issues Historical context Generational Trends Crisis Management
  1. History goes in cycles, where each generation faces a crisis that leads to change. After a huge crisis, society often rebuilds and everything seems stable again for a while.
  2. Current events are part of a major crisis that could really shake things up. While it feels bad now, crises can also lead to new beginnings and improvements.
  3. Even when things seem really tough, people have a strong ability to adapt and survive. Change is constant, and we might end up with a better world after this crisis.

Kevin Can't Come to Phone Right Now

backstory • 1018 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🏝 Travel Travel Stories Cultural experiences Adventure Historical context
  1. In Sudan, communication was very different. Making a phone call was challenging and expensive, with long waits and unreliable connections.
  2. The desire to escape from the familiar led to adventures. The narrator felt drawn to go to places where they could be far away from civilization and immerse themselves in new experiences.
  3. Unexpected connections can bring joy. Despite the long wait, a surprise delivery from home arrived months later, reminding the narrator of the importance of family and traditions.

A Requiem For Ba'athism (Part 1 of 2)

Fisted by Foucault • 128 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Middle East International relations Historical context Political Philosophy
  1. The Syrian government quickly collapsed, with major cities falling to opposition forces in a matter of weeks. This rapid change marked the end of Ba'athism and the Assad family's rule.
  2. The regime's failure was due to a mix of internal issues like demoralization among troops and lack of support from allies like Iran and Hezbollah. It wasn't a heroic battle but rather a series of local surrenders.
  3. The collapse of the Assad regime shows how much the political landscape in the Arab world has changed. It's also seen as a broader consequence of historical grievances and foreign interventions in the Middle East.

DRAFT: It Is Our Business Here in America Not to Repeat Old World Society-of-Domination Mistakes

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 153 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Indigenous rights Social justice Political theory Cultural Discourse Historical context
  1. Land acknowledgments can be seen as a reminder of historical injustices, which some people may find annoying or overwhelming.
  2. There were many positive interactions between early colonists and Native Americans, and the population of Native Americans has actually grown since then.
  3. The benefits brought by the Columbian Exchange helped improve the lives of modern Native Americans compared to their ancestors in the past.

The Tinkerer

Unpopular Front • 98 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Civil Unrest Social Issues Ideology Historical context
  1. Luigi Mangione, the suspected killer, seemed like a normal guy from a good family, with a stable social life and a well-educated background. However, a serious back injury and frustration with the medical system might have pushed him towards violence.
  2. His interests were surprisingly typical for a young tech worker, like reading famous dystopian novels and discussing future tech, which doesn't usually lead to extreme actions. This shows how regular people can sometimes make shocking choices when feeling lost.
  3. The situation reflects a larger issue in society, where many young, successful individuals feel disconnected and frustrated with the current system. This emotional struggle can drive some to act out in desperate and dangerous ways.

Manifest Destiny Returns

Alex Danco's Newsletter • 252 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency Foreign Policy National Security Trade policy Historical context
  1. American Exceptionalism means the U.S. sees its values as universal and acts with a moral purpose in the world. This belief makes it different from other nations that focus mainly on national interests.
  2. The idea of Manifest Destiny allowed America to expand its influence without feeling guilty about using power, framing it as if it were a domestic issue. This helps to justify aggressive policies while maintaining a sense of moral superiority.
  3. Recent tariffs on neighboring countries are seen as a strategy to strengthen America's negotiation power and unify its goals domestically. It treats trade policies as matters of national authority, boosting support from Americans who want to see stronger actions taken.

Some Thoughts on the Meaning Behind the Characters in the Brave New World

Through A Glass Darkly • 845 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
📚 Literature Character analysis Symbolism Critique Historical context
  1. The characters in Brave New World represent extremes of societal expectations and moral reflections.
  2. Aldous Huxley uses Shakespeare's works to mock the failed American experiment for a better world.
  3. The story tackles themes of free will, conditioning, and the struggle against oppressive societal structures.

MAGA

backstory • 533 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Cultural analysis Media influence Social Issues Historical context
  1. Technological advances can change society dramatically, sometimes causing more problems than expected. It's important to be mindful of this when we embrace new technology.
  2. Historical events often show us how quickly things can change, like the leap from a successful moon landing to the Apollo 13 crisis. It's a reminder of the unpredictability of progress.
  3. When people seek new experiences, they can end up in awkward situations, but those moments can highlight our shared humanity and the unexpected journeys we take together.

A Literary Theorist Predicted Trump's Win in 1939. He's Worth a Read.

OK Doomer • 171 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
📚 Literature Literary theory Historical context Political Commentary Rhetoric Cultural analysis
  1. A literary theorist named Kenneth Burke predicted the rise of fascism and Trump in a 1939 essay. He understood the dangers of these movements even before they fully emerged.
  2. Burke was a self-taught scholar who struggled with writing but had important ideas that could help people understand political events today.
  3. His work is still relevant, and his insights might have been valuable in interpreting modern political strategies and rhetoric.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 299 implied HN points • 04 May 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Author analysis Cultural Commentary Historical context
  1. Yanis Varoufakis argues that capitalism is fading and being replaced by a new system called 'technofeudalism,' where tech companies control online spaces and extract rent from users.
  2. Henry Wallace was a progressive political figure in the US, who came close to the presidency but was overshadowed by Truman. His ideals could have led America in a different direction after World War II.
  3. The analysis of Wallace's potential presidency raises questions about whether the US could have taken a more progressive path in its foreign and domestic policies.

The Curse Of Zhou Bai Den.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media influence International relations Cultural Identity Historical context
  1. Many European countries seem overly focused on US politics, often ignoring important issues happening in their own nations. This shows a lack of balance in how they engage with global affairs.
  2. There's a trend where European elites adopt American cultural and social norms without questioning them, which often doesn't fit well with their own histories and values. This can lead to confusion and loss of cultural identity.
  3. The historical experiences of Europe differ greatly from those of the US, leading to a disconnect in understanding and addressing global issues. Many Europeans are grappling with their past while trying to navigate a future influenced by American ideals.

The Tethers of the Tide

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 379 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Water Historical context
  1. Tides affect various aspects of life in Seattle, like ferry schedules and historical horse racing. The Meadows racetrack, for example, benefited from the speed changes brought by tidal flows.
  2. During World War II, Boeing planes might have been impacted by tidal movements affecting the plant's floor, leading to manufacturing inconsistencies. Although this story is plausible, there isn't much official evidence to confirm it.
  3. Buildings in Seattle face challenges with both too little and too much water due to tides. Some buildings have rotting support pilings from low tide exposure, while others struggle with flooding from high tides and storm runoff.

Bigger’s Dream: Killing and Self-Preservation

Journal of Free Black Thought • 5 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
📚 Literature American Literature Literary Analysis Cultural criticism Historical context
  1. Bigger's act of killing Mary leads him to a new understanding of himself and the world around him. It marks a turning point where he begins to see things clearly for the first time.
  2. The murder symbolizes a drastic break from his old life, similar to the story of Adam and Eve. Both experiences bring about knowledge and a sense of being 'reborn' despite the consequences.
  3. Bigger's actions reflect his struggle against oppression and fear. Killing becomes a way for him to assert control over his life, but ultimately he learns it does not solve his deeper problems.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 259 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Cultural critique Historical context Political Analysis Personal narratives
  1. Rashid Khalidi's book highlights the ongoing struggle of the Palestinian people, presenting their history as a long struggle against colonialism and displacement. It's important to understand the deep historical roots of the conflict to grasp the current situation.
  2. Nathan Thrall's book depicts everyday life in Palestine, showcasing the struggles and frustrations faced by ordinary people. It focuses less on direct violence and more on the daily humiliations and systemic issues that affect Palestinian life.
  3. Both books encourage readers to look beyond simple narratives and consider the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Engaging with these stories helps build a broader perspective on the suffering and aspirations of both peoples.

The Chicago Cubs Really Were Hurt by Playing Day Games

Something to Consider • 139 implied HN points • 09 May 24
🎾 Sports Baseball Statistics Team performance Game analysis Historical context
  1. The Chicago Cubs had many daytime games which may have made them tired in the second half of the season. This could explain why they didn't perform as well later in the year.
  2. The team only started playing night games in 1988, much later than other teams, which might have also hurt their performance.
  3. Even today, the Cubs have fewer night games compared to other teams, and this could still affect their chances of winning.

Yesterday's Influencer

Non-Boring History • 412 implied HN points • 16 May 23
💾 History Historical context
  1. The post discusses visiting the Scottish birthplace of a once famous but now forgotten celebrity.
  2. The blog post includes a collection of belongings owned by Thomas Carlyle.
  3. History is highlighted as a valuable subject that provides context to our lives.

If It Talks Like An Idiot, If It Walks Like An Idiot, It Most Likely Is An Idiot.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 24 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Economic Policy International relations Historical context
  1. The idea of America’s global power is weakening, and there are emerging economies that challenge its dominance. This shift could lead to less reliance on the US dollar.
  2. Many believe that past actions and choices in American leadership have damaged the working class and unions. This has made the American market less appealing to both workers and foreign investors.
  3. Trump's tough talk about trade doesn't represent strength; instead, it highlights a fragile position in the global economy. His approach may not succeed against established trading groups like BRICS.

The Divine Right of Founders

From the New World • 21 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Political theory Ethics Social Philosophy Historical context
  1. Silicon Valley founders are seen as having a special power over their companies, similar to how kings ruled in the past. Their personal insight gives them a unique control that others can't match.
  2. Many believe that companies struggle when they lose their founders, as those leaders provide a sense of legitimacy and direction. This belief reflects a deep connection between leadership and success in startups.
  3. The idea that modern concepts of state and power come from religious ideas shows how intertwined our views of governance and business are. This connection could change how we see both companies and countries today.

H is for Hakluyt

All Visible Objects • 118 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
📚 Literature Authors Analysis Translation Historical context Interpretation
  1. The opening of Moby-Dick references a quote by Hakluyt about the importance of the letter H in the word 'whale,' setting an enigmatic tone for the novel.
  2. Melville's use of the Hakluyt quote without full context led to speculation about its meaning, with scholars exploring poetic interpretations related to breath, spirit, and hidden truths within the text.
  3. Investigating the origins of the Hakluyt quote reveals connections to a chain of translations and criticisms between Arngrímur, Münster, and Hakluyt, shedding light on Melville's intellectual and literary choices.

A Tale of Yachts and Yacht-Nots

Litverse • 139 implied HN points • 26 Aug 23
📚 Literature Authors Novels Themes Critique Historical context
  1. The writing in Hemingway's 'To Have and To Have Not' showcases a deep exploration of characters' actions over their feelings, with strong themes of desperation and survival.
  2. The novel delves into the moral ambiguity of characters like Harry Morgan, who navigates ethical dilemmas in a harsh and unforgiving world, where decisions are made in the moment without much thought for consequences.
  3. Hemingway's work from his pre-World War II era, like 'To Have and To Have Not,' highlights a shift towards vulnerability and social commentary, reflecting his evolving perspective on human nature and societal injustices.

Is Civil War Near?

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 06 Jan 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Political culture Historical context Social Issues Conflict
  1. The United States has not fully resolved issues from its first civil war. Many African Americans continued to face discrimination and disenfranchisement long after the war ended.
  2. On the anniversary of the Capitol riot, there's concern about escalating political tensions in America. However, the author suggests a new civil war is unlikely.
  3. The ongoing struggles for equality indicate that the country still has significant work to do. Addressing these issues is crucial to prevent future conflict.