The hottest Historical Narratives Substack posts right now

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Across the Divide: What It Means to Be American

Papyrus Rampant • 138 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Political division Historical Narratives Civic engagement Civil Rights
  1. People often have different views of history based on their experiences and backgrounds. This can lead to disagreements over what events mean and how they shape our identities.
  2. National stories are important because they give people a sense of belonging. These narratives help define what it means to be part of a nation and influence how people understand each other.
  3. It's okay to disagree, but we need to learn to accept our differences without hostility. True connection comes from love and understanding, even across political divides.

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.

Liberals are bad and they know it

The J. Burden Show • 2276 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Progressives Cultural heritage Political Tactics Historical Narratives
  1. Progressives leverage minor truths to demolish broader cultural narratives and heroes, eroding the foundation of civilization.
  2. Progressives use tactics like degrading heritage figures to attack their enemies and undermine the legitimacy of ruling classes.
  3. Liberal insecurity drives them to denigrate great men and attempt to erase historical examples that contradict the idea of progress.

Can America Exist Without A Shared Culture?

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 07 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture National Identity Historical Narratives Diversity Consensus
  1. America lacks a strong, shared national culture like many other countries have. This makes it hard to define what it means to be American.
  2. Throughout its history, America has tried to find common ground among its diverse backgrounds, but these attempts often resulted in weak agreements and divisions.
  3. Today, the idea of a shared identity in America is fading, with both political sides searching for new myths or narratives to unify the country.

National Myths Old and New

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Historical Narratives Civic engagement Cultural critique
  1. There are two main stories about America's past: one celebrates its founding and achievements, while the other highlights its flaws like slavery and injustice. People seem to be divided between these two views.
  2. A new generation sees America's past as something that can be redeemed through acknowledging past wrongs and offering reparations. This idea focuses on healing and addressing the trauma of oppressed groups.
  3. America's role in the world is important, too. Instead of just looking at what happened inside the country, it's vital to recognize how it protects allies and maintains a certain type of order internationally, which can also shape positive patriotism.
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Book Review: The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt

Something to Consider • 19 implied HN points • 08 Feb 23
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Cultural Evolution Political History Historical Narratives
  1. The book mainly focuses on the history of Egypt's kings rather than the lives of everyday people. Most of what we know about ancient Egyptians comes from royal artifacts and structures, so there’s limited information about the general population.
  2. It’s a fun and easy read, full of fascinating facts that correct common misconceptions about Egyptian history. Readers learn a lot about important figures and events without feeling bogged down by overly complex details.
  3. The study highlights how and why states form and fall apart. Ancient Egypt's stability relied on agricultural wealth and a balance of power, while neglect or too much strength in leadership could lead to its eventual decline.

Another Of My Essays In French

Trying to Understand the World • 0 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Popular culture Historical Narratives Media influence Psychology
  1. Myths often shape how people understand wars and conflicts, making them see them in a simpler, more dramatic light. This can lead to misunderstandings about real events.
  2. The influence of popular culture, like movies and books, can mix with historical facts to create false narratives about the past. Many people rely on these stories instead of studying complex realities.
  3. People often prefer easy explanations for complicated issues, like blaming secret groups for problems. This kind of thinking can be harmful as it distracts from deeper understanding and accountability.