The hottest History Substack posts right now

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Classical Music Got Invented with a Hard Kick from a Peasant's Foot

The Honest Broker • 5917 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art History Philosophy Dance
  1. Classical music is more about human movement than math. It has roots in how people dance and move, not just numbers.
  2. The history of music shows a struggle between hands and feet. Highbrow music often focuses on hand movements, while lowbrow music is driven by dancing.
  3. Understanding music requires recognizing its connection to our bodies. Rhythm in all genres is tied to how we physically react and move to the music.

Government Science and the Prestige Economy

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1219 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🔬 Science Research Policy Innovation Economics History
  1. Government funding for science is important because there are some types of research that private companies won't invest in, even though they can benefit society. Basic research is valuable, even if it doesn't have immediate economic benefits.
  2. The idea of crowding out suggests that government funding may take talent away from private companies, but research shows that government support often leads to more innovation in the private sector as well.
  3. Prestige economies, which reward knowledge and research, can motivate scientists to do valuable work even if it doesn't yield direct financial gains. This is different from private sector jobs where profit is the main goal.

No Kings

Thinking about... • 754 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Protests Civil Rights History Government
  1. We want freedom from kings and powerful leaders because they often put their needs above ours. Freedom means a government that truly works for the people.
  2. History shows that the fight for freedom is a long journey, filled with struggles against oppression. It teaches us that we need allies and to listen to each other.
  3. Protests are just the start of the work for freedom. They remind us that we can stand up and take action together for change.

We Live Like Royalty and Don’t Know It

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 129 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Education Values History Ideas
  1. Many people don't realize how much they benefit from complex systems that provide food, water, and healthcare. It's important to understand these systems to appreciate the comforts we have.
  2. Events like weddings showcase how ordinary people can enjoy luxuries that were once only for the wealthy. This shows a change in how we live compared to the past.
  3. Understanding and maintaining our modern systems is crucial. If we ignore them, we risk losing the conveniences we've come to expect in daily life.

Do Artists Suffer?

The Honest Broker • 9009 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Politics Psychology History Creativity
  1. Suffering is often seen as part of being an artist, but research shows it might not be true for creativity. Instead, suffering may boost ambition, especially in leaders.
  2. History shows that many successful leaders and creatives had difficult childhoods, like losing parents. This loss may actually spark creativity rather than hinder it.
  3. The idea that suffering drives creativity is backed by studies showing a link between personal loss and artistic achievement throughout history.
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The Most English Man in the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 996 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Politics Media Society History
  1. The author humorously explores British culture and customs while visiting London for the first time. They joke about misunderstandings, like 'mushy peas' being a real food and the confusion around British geography.
  2. The author learns about Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent British politician, who is described as very traditional. They explain how he became a 'sir' through a special honor from a former prime minister.
  3. The article highlights the author's curiosity about British life and their playful approach to learning about a different culture through funny anecdotes and questions.

How to Achieve Immortality

The Honest Broker • 24901 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature History Philosophy Society
  1. In the past, people achieved immortality through great deeds that served others, but today, many seek it through extreme measures like blood transfusions and body freezing. This shift shows a focus on self rather than community.
  2. Art can offer a different type of immortality than technology can. Famous works can keep someone's memory alive far longer than any tech billionaire can, even if they chase superficial forms of eternal youth.
  3. The modern obsession with quick fame through social media contrasts with the lasting impact of art and good deeds. While many focus on fleeting popularity, true legacy comes from cultural contributions that endure over time.

The French Film That Changed Japanese Animation

Animation Obsessive • 24397 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation History Art Influence
  1. The French film _The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep_ had a big impact on Japanese animation when it was released in Japan. It showed animators that animated films could be for adults, not just kids.
  2. Filmmakers like Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata were inspired by the film's unique storytelling and beautiful animation style. They noted how it created a vivid world that felt real and grounded.
  3. The film influenced new ideas about how animation could express deeper themes, such as social and political issues, which changed the way Japanese animated films were made going forward.

A Tale of a Lost Heir

Papyrus Rampant • 119 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction History Storytelling Character development Cultural analysis
  1. When writing about a lost heir, it's important to show why others want to follow them. A strong character, like Bonnie Prince Charlie, can inspire loyalty in others, making the story more engaging.
  2. Authors need to create believable circumstances that allow the heir to gather support without being quickly defeated. Historical events can provide inspiration for how to craft these situations.
  3. A lost heir's eventual reign should hint at their ability to lead. Even if they don't win, showing how they would govern helps readers connect with the character and understand the challenges they face.

A Shocking Fact about Bobby Kennedy's Assassination You Probably Don't Know

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 198 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Assassination Conspiracy History Government Justice
  1. Dr. Thomas Noguchi, the medical examiner for RFK, claimed he never declared Sirhan Sirhan as the killer. This raises questions about the official narrative of the assassination.
  2. Many eyewitnesses believe that Sirhan could not have fired the shot that killed RFK, with the fatal shot coming from behind him. This suggests the possibility of a second gunman.
  3. There seems to be a pattern of ignoring inconvenient facts about RFK and JFK's deaths. Some people, like RFK Jr., feel strongly about uncovering the truth behind these assassinations.

Broadcast TV: It Only Looks Dead

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Television Media Entertainment Sociology History
  1. Broadcast TV is still relevant, even with the rise of streaming services. People can watch live sports and local news without paying for subscriptions.
  2. Digital broadcasting has increased the number of channels available, including many free options that people may not know about.
  3. Older TV shows often have more depth and quality compared to many new productions. Watching them can remind us of what good storytelling looks like.

'Such were the works of Walsingham'

The Abbey of Misrule • 357 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Pilgrimage History Worship Devotion
  1. Walsingham used to be a major pilgrimage site in England where many people traveled to show their devotion to the Virgin Mary. The last mile of the journey was traditionally done barefoot to honor the holy ground.
  2. The Slipper Chapel at Walsingham has a rich history. After being damaged, it was restored and even became a minor basilica, showing the ongoing importance of the site for Catholic pilgrims.
  3. While large pilgrimage sites attract many visitors, some people prefer the peace and quiet of smaller parish churches. It's nice to connect with faith in a serene environment, away from crowds.

Trump's civil war

Thinking about... • 1136 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Government Civil Rights Political Rhetoric History
  1. Trump is trying to change the military's role from protecting the country to controlling the people. He wants soldiers to act against American citizens instead of defending democracy.
  2. His speeches suggest that the past military victories are being used to justify future actions that aren't legal. Trump is encouraging soldiers to follow him personally rather than the Constitution.
  3. By calling migration an 'invasion', Trump is mixing ideas of war and policy, aiming to create an enemy within the country. This could lead to dangerous situations where soldiers might harm their fellow citizens.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘A New World Order’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2851 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership History Diplomacy Government Foreign Policy
  1. George H.W. Bush's 'Chicken Kiev' speech was seen as controversial at the time but is now viewed as an exemplary model of diplomacy.
  2. The speech illustrated how America could support democracy in other countries without taking on the role of a global policeman.
  3. Reflecting on past leadership can help us understand and navigate current political issues more effectively.

Morris Chang and the Origins of TSMC

Construction Physics • 46767 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Semiconductors Innovation Manufacturing Entrepreneurship History
  1. Morris Chang founded TSMC in 1985, turning it into a key player in the semiconductor industry. He saw the need for a company that could manufacture chips for others, which allowed many new companies to emerge.
  2. Chang's journey was not smooth; he faced many challenges and failures before achieving success with TSMC. Much of his early career included tough breaks, but he persevered and created something significant.
  3. TSMC's unique business model changed how semiconductor companies operated by providing manufacturing services without competing directly with clients. This innovation helped TSMC grow quickly and become vital for tech giants like Apple and Intel.

The 99-Year-Old Film That Stops People

Animation Obsessive • 18567 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation Art History Media
  1. A film called _The Adventures of Prince Achmed_ is really special because it's the oldest animated feature still around. Even after almost 100 years, people are still amazed by its magic and creativity.
  2. The director, Lotte Reiniger, used a unique cut-out style that made her work stand out from others. Her approach was different from American cartoons, focusing more on artistic storytelling through puppetry and silhouettes.
  3. Despite the struggles during its creation and the trouble faced by her team with the rise of the Nazis, the film gained huge popularity and helped show the power of animation even in tough times.

Should economists read Marx?

Noahpinion • 37588 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🚌 Education Economics Philosophy History Theory Social Science
  1. Many economists don't need to read the original works of thinkers like Marx or Smith to understand economics. They usually study practical models and theories that help solve real-world economic problems.
  2. Modern economic education often emphasizes foundational papers by influential economists, which explain key concepts like market failures and public goods, rather than focusing on Marxist ideas.
  3. Reading Marx can be useful, but mainly as a cautionary tale about how economic theories, if misapplied, can lead to disastrous outcomes in real life. It reminds economists to approach their work with humility.

A Manifesto in Defense of Courtship

The Honest Broker • 25333 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships History Literature Philosophy Tradition
  1. Courtship has been important for a long time in helping couples come together. It gives a structured way to build a relationship over time.
  2. Following the rules of courtship helps both people become better and more attractive. It builds respect and courtesy, really laying a good foundation for a future together.
  3. In today's fast-paced dating world, finding love can be harder despite all the dating apps. Slowing down and embracing courtship might help create more meaningful connections.

The Parable of Anna Akhmatova

The Honest Broker • 30154 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature History Philosophy Politics
  1. The power of art can overcome even the strongest dictators. Artists like Anna Akhmatova show that creativity can stand firm against oppression.
  2. Success in today's world is often measured by money and popularity, but true creative expression is about more than just those metrics.
  3. Even when artists face harsh censorship, their work can survive and resonate over time, leading to eventual recognition and respect.

Why We’re Obsessed with JFK Conspiracies

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 741 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories History Politics Media Film
  1. Many people are really curious about JFK's assassination and the theories surrounding it. These theories often stem from a mix of history and pop culture.
  2. The 1991 movie _JFK_ played a big role in shaping public interest in these conspiracy theories. It questioned the government's involvement in the assassination and got people talking.
  3. Recently, the idea of releasing more documents on JFK's assassination has garnered attention, especially with Donald Trump's involvement. It shows that the topic is still relevant and controversial today.

A Portal to the Past

Animation Obsessive • 1793 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Animation History Film Media
  1. The 1980s were a special time for Shanghai Animation Film Studio, making it a leader in Chinese animation.
  2. A rare brochure was digitized to preserve and share the studio's history and artworks from 1957 to 1987.
  3. The article expresses gratitude to readers for their support and mentions excitement about an upcoming trip to a festival.

No, Capitalism Did Not Make America the Richest Country

Erik Examines • 268 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economics Socialism History Immigration Capitalism
  1. America's wealth didn't come solely from capitalism or hard work; other factors played big roles too. There are many things we often overlook when we talk about America's economic success.
  2. Many Europeans didn't come to America only to escape oppression. They actually had other options within Europe, and they were often seeking better land and opportunities instead.
  3. The U.S. had vast resources like fertile land and coal, which helped it industrialize faster than many European countries. These natural advantages were a key reason for America's economic power.

Thought bubble: I am pleased to report that AI is now a better poet than William McGonagall

Wyclif's Dust • 1877 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry AI History Creative Writing Technology
  1. AI has improved a lot in writing poetry and can now create impressive pieces that rival some human authors. This means anyone can reach a decent level of poetic skill using AI.
  2. Different AI models produce varying quality in poetry, with some showing more creativity and better structure than others. It's interesting to compare how each AI interprets and writes about the same topic.
  3. The development of AI in creative fields could raise the overall skill level in those areas, making it easier for everyone to write poetry well, but true expert poets will still stand out.

Just do your dance already

Experimental History • 3868 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music History Literature Dance
  1. It's common to get stuck trying to give detailed responses to questions. This can lead to wasting too much time on one email.
  2. Finding balance in communication is important to stay productive. Spending all day on one task can keep you from accomplishing other things.
  3. Prioritizing efficiency in response can help manage time better. Instead of focusing on a perfect answer, aim for getting back to others more quickly.

American Economic History Midterm This Friday!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 199 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🚌 Education Academic History Economics Lectures
  1. The midterm exam will focus on the readings, so doing them is key to doing well. It's designed to be easy if you're prepared.
  2. The course looks at American economic history through various significant episodes instead of a continuous timeline. This approach highlights important events and their impacts.
  3. Upcoming weeks will cover topics like immigration, feminism, and the rise of Silicon Valley. Each week connects historical discussions to current economic issues.

The Pot of Gold at America’s Western Edge

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2309 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Society History Travel
  1. California is seen as a shining example of America’s optimism and adventurous spirit. Its landscapes are diverse and beautiful, capturing the hearts of many.
  2. The state represents a journey of hope and discovery for pioneers, marked by the promise of wealth and a better life. Many believe the history of California reflects the core values of the entire nation.
  3. From its rich agricultural roots to modern technological advances, California's success story symbolizes the potential for achievement and progress that inspires people everywhere.

Every Story is a Degrowth Story!

Breaking Smart • 101 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society History Philosophy Language Environment
  1. There are three main forces affecting our world: internet nomads, artificial intelligence, and climate change. Each of these will impact our lives in different ways over the next 10 to 15 years.
  2. Internet nomads, like political groups using social media, are likely to peak first and create short-term chaos, but may not last long-term due to their inability to build stable systems.
  3. AI will evolve quickly as technology improves and becomes more common, which might lead to bigger changes in society, while climate change will pose significant challenges, affecting everyday life in profound ways.

The familiar loneliness of the Kinetoscope

Res Obscura • 4510 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media History Art Technology Society
  1. The 2020s and the 1890s share many similarities, like protectionism and social division. People from both eras worry about advancing technology taking away jobs.
  2. The Kinetoscope, a one-person movie viewing device, represents a kind of loneliness in technology. It mirrors how today's technology often isolates us despite being connected.
  3. Edison's decision to focus on the Kinetoscope instead of larger audience devices highlights a trend toward personal, individual experiences in media. This shift continues with modern technology, where we consume content alone.

The Tachibana Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1025 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art History Fashion Travel
  1. Buying used records can make music purchases more special. It allows for a personal connection to the places visited.
  2. The Tohru Aizawa Quartet created a rare jazz album in the 1970s, originally made as a business card. The album stands out because of its unique backstory and quality.
  3. Despite their main careers being outside music, the band delivered impressive compositions that show their talent. Their music can be enjoyed by listening online, even if you can't find the physical record.

UI is hell: four-function calculators

lcamtuf’s thing • 8570 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Interface Design User Experience History
  1. Basic calculators seem simple, but designing their interface is really tricky. Many small rules affect how they operate.
  2. Users often expect calculators to follow straightforward rules, but calculators can behave unexpectedly based on their design. This can lead to confusion when doing simple calculations.
  3. Calculator design has evolved over time, but some quirks and confusing features remain. Understanding these can help users use them more effectively.

Happy Lupercalia

Res Obscura • 2021 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Traditions History Festivals Rituals Literature
  1. There's a special discount of 33% for subscriptions to support the publication, which is a great time to sign up.
  2. Lupercalia is a historical Roman festival linked to purification and fertility, celebrated from February 13 to 15.
  3. The writer highlights that there is no direct connection between Lupercalia and Valentine's Day, though some suggest links to other February celebrations.

The beautiful rebirth of Dresden (2)

Wrong Side of History • 303 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Architecture History Urbanism Art Heritage
  1. Dresden has seen a lot of restoration after being heavily damaged in WWII. Local efforts have helped rebuild parts of the city to bring back its historical beauty.
  2. A community group called the Dresden Historical Neumarkt Society played a big role in this rebuilding. They gathered thousands of signatures to push for the restoration of key sites.
  3. People in Dresden are excited about their city's revival and are looking forward to making it a beautiful place like other major European cities.

A New Kind of Forensics

Culture Study • 3847 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues History Gender Studies Forensics Media
  1. Marty Goddard played a key role in creating the rape kit, which helped provide evidence of sexual assault. This changed how incidents were taken seriously in the legal system.
  2. The history of the rape kit shows that many women were not believed when they reported assaults. It highlights a culture that often dismissed survivors.
  3. This story also reveals how women's contributions can be overlooked in innovation. Even when they create important tools, men often get the credit.

What we are losing; what we have lost

Brain Pizza • 1191 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Society Culture History Philosophy
  1. We are losing touch with important aspects of our lives that used to matter a lot. It's like taking for granted things that shaped our experiences.
  2. The world feels like it's moving really fast nowadays, and it can be hard to keep up. This speed makes us miss even more of what we used to value.
  3. Reflecting on changes in our lives can help us understand what we've lost and might find ways to reconnect with those things. Taking a moment to think about it can be helpful.

What Happens in a Second?

Animation Obsessive • 2870 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art History Media
  1. The length of the film 'The Adventures of Prince Achmed' varies between different editions. Some versions are 65 minutes long while others are longer due to differences in playback speed.
  2. There's a debate about how long the film originally was, with some believing it could be as long as 90 minutes. This confusion stems from how silent films are understood and played today.
  3. The discussion around the film highlights a broader issue about silent films in general and how one second can mean different things in different contexts. It's a fun puzzle that has had people talking for many years!

☞ Milton's Rainbow

Cabinet of Wonders • 184 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry History Philosophy Language Art
  1. John Milton's description of the rainbow with only three colors is tied to old ideas about primary colors. This makes us think differently about how people viewed colors in the past.
  2. Isaac Newton's influence changed the way we see rainbows, leading to the common belief that they have seven colors. His mystical views helped shape color theory and public perception.
  3. There are deeper meanings and connections to how Milton might have perceived colors, especially considering the time he lived in. Exploring these ideas can reveal a lot about history and our understanding of color.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘We Fell Morally Ill’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3899 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Government Democracy History
  1. People need to speak the truth for a government to regain trust. Honest communication can help restore faith in leadership.
  2. A new leader can promise to fix past wrongs and bring back democracy. This promise often resonates with people who feel betrayed.
  3. History shows that change is possible after dark times. Just like in Czechoslovakia after communism, new beginnings can lead to hope and freedom.

The Engine

The Chip Letter • 8299 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Computing Literature History Innovation
  1. Jonathan Swift's 'Engine' in Gulliver's Travels resembles a modern language model, using a setup to create phrases like today's AI would. It's an early version of computing that predicts how machines can generate language.
  2. The 'Engine' is set up to show how books can be made easier to create. It suggests that anyone could write on complex topics, even without talent, a concept similar to how AI helps people produce text now.
  3. Swift's work critiques the idea of replacing human creativity with machines. It humorously shows that while technology can produce text, true creativity still involves deeper human thought.

America: 2076

Faster, Please! • 639 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Culture Celebrations Leadership
  1. The excitement for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is building, with plans for a national celebration involving various historical figures. It's a chance for all Americans to reflect on the country's achievements.
  2. Thoughts about the future are growing, especially regarding the 300th anniversary in 2076, and how the past influenced people's expectations of the future.
  3. There's a hope that the national mood will allow everyone, regardless of political views, to come together and celebrate America's past while looking forward to the future.

What You Can Learn from Just Seven Pages by Hannah Arendt

The Honest Broker • 30719 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Humanism Technology Society Ethics History
  1. Hannah Arendt talks about how some people are so disconnected from reality that they want to escape earth. This shows a worrying trend in society's focus on technology over human connection.
  2. She warns that as we lean more on technology, we risk creating a world where machines control our lives. This could lead us to become helpless and slaves to our own inventions.
  3. Arendt believes that the more we focus on artificial things, the more we lose touch with meaningful, real-life experiences. This could make freedom feel empty and lead to a sense of loneliness in society.