The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

American Tradition

Wild Holy & Free • 719 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Traditions Race History
  1. Traditions can be positive, but we must be honest about the negative aspects of American tradition.
  2. We need to commit to telling the truth and pursuing justice despite the challenges.
  3. Acknowledging the flaws in the system doesn't diminish our commitment to waiting for progress and celebrating when it comes.

Philosophic Premises of Quantum Mechanics – Part I

Fields & Energy • 359 implied HN points • 12 Nov 23
🔬 Science Physics Quantum Mechanics Philosophy History Theory
  1. Quantum mechanics is often misunderstood, with some believing it challenges objective reality. However, the issues stem from outdated philosophies rather than quantum theory itself.
  2. During the Weimar period in Germany, there was a strong cultural push against reason and causality. This opposition influenced the development of quantum mechanics during that time.
  3. Many scientists who shaped quantum mechanics were caught between supporting the new ideas and adhering to older principles of causality, leading to mixed interpretations of their findings.

Myth & Math

Seven Senses • 519 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Astrology History Mythology Art Science
  1. Astrology mixes art and science, with a long history that goes back thousands of years. It's been used for everything from planting crops to influencing our personalities.
  2. Many people today enjoy astrology for self-discovery, but its teachings can get simplified and lose depth. It's important to remember that each person's experience with astrology is unique.
  3. Astrology encourages us to think about free will and destiny. We can choose our paths while also being influenced by the cosmos around us.

The Ten Ages of London in One Short Walk

Londonist: Time Machine • 419 implied HN points • 12 Jul 23
🏝 Travel History
  1. The post discusses a time-travelling walking tour in London that covers ten different historical ages in a short distance.
  2. It mentions starting in prehistoric days and moving through Roman, Anglo-Saxon, Viking, Norman, Tudor, Stuart, Georgian, Victorian, and modern London.
  3. The post invites readers to subscribe to Londonist: Time Machine for full access to the archives and enjoy 7-day free trial.
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Genius in turbulent times

Logging the World • 418 implied HN points • 05 Jul 23
🔬 Science Mathematics History Biology Diversity
  1. Genius can be found in lesser-known figures like Kolmogorov, who made significant contributions to mathematics and other fields.
  2. Kolmogorov's work on probability theory and the Kolmogorov-Arnold theorem had a lasting impact on mathematics and even underpins modern AI algorithms.
  3. Kolmogorov's life was not only marked by academic achievements but also by navigating personal challenges, such as opposing Lysenkoism and living as an openly gay man in Stalinist Russia.

December 14, 2024

Letters from an American • 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.

Understanding the Jewish x Italian Handshake

The Melt by Jason Diamond • 412 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural Commentary Film Identity History Social Issues
  1. The Jewish x Italian Handshake is not a formal agreement but a natural evolution in casting over time.
  2. The concept allows for actors of one heritage to convincingly play characters of another heritage.
  3. Closeness between Jewish and Italian communities in America has influenced cultural exchanges, such as in casting choices.

Five... London Statues of Extraordinary Women

Londonist: Time Machine • 139 implied HN points • 24 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Women History London
  1. The post discusses five London statues of extraordinary women who have significantly contributed to shaping the city's history.
  2. The importance of recognizing and commemorating women in public statues, considering the historical disparity in representation compared to men.
  3. Women's History Month serves as a reminder to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women who have made a difference.

Intro to Economic Life 1: Creatures on a Planet

Altered States of Monetary Consciousness • 410 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🚌 Education Economics Philosophy History Environment Political
  1. The economy is not separate from the planet, but rather a part of it, with everything deriving from the ecological systems of Earth. This interconnectedness should be a foundational element of economic analysis.
  2. Products we see as separate entities are actually collections of human labor and resources from the planet, with objects being made up of multiple acts of labor combined with natural elements like sunlight, air, water, and food.
  3. The illusion of separation in the economy can hide exploitative practices and hinder our ability to make informed decisions, leading to disconnection, confusion, and alienation. Understanding these interconnected processes is crucial to developing a holistic view of the economy.

Songs for Drella

Austin Kleon • 1318 implied HN points • 04 Oct 22
🎶 Music Albums Artists History Reviews
  1. The album 'Songs for Drella' is a tribute to Andy Warhol, created by Lou Reed and John Cale, who were once estranged.
  2. The nickname 'Drella' combines 'Dracula' and 'Cinderella,' reflecting the complex nature of Warhol's personality.
  3. The songs on the album present Warhol's life from different perspectives, including his own and those of Reed and Cale.

More thoughts on creative tension

Austin Kleon • 1199 implied HN points • 08 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Philosophy History Personal Growth
  1. Creative tension can help generate new ideas and push creativity forward. It's about balancing different opposing thoughts or feelings.
  2. Negative capability means being okay with uncertainty and holding two opposing views at the same time. This can help people think more deeply and creatively.
  3. The unity of opposites is an ancient idea that suggests conflicting concepts can work together. Embracing this can lead to a richer understanding of creativity.

The Ravineous City

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 219 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Urban Studies Geography History Nature Language
  1. Seattle has many natural ravines formed by a mix of geology, climate, and time. These ravines provide unique landscapes in the city.
  2. Different places use different terms for similar features; for example, Tacoma prefers 'gulch' over 'ravine'. This shows how local culture influences language.
  3. Ravenna is a well-known ravine in Seattle with interesting historical and linguistic connections. Its name reflects a mix of culture and nature.

Lord Verulam's Idols

Fields & Energy • 279 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Science Ethics History Literature Education
  1. Francis Bacon proposed a new idea of science that focused on human control over nature and knowledge. His vision was about creating a scholarly place that could influence society.
  2. Bacon is often labeled as the 'Father of Scientism' rather than the father of modern science. This suggests that his ideas shaped more than just scientific methods; they also influenced how we think about science and its role in society.
  3. Literature like Bacon's work, along with stories like 'Brave New World' and '1984,' can serve as warnings about the dangers of letting scientism dominate our lives. They encourage us to think critically about where scientific progress is leading us.

Japan's "untouchables"

The Global Jigsaw • 238 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🌐 International Society History Culture Discrimination Identity
  1. Japan has a marginalized group called Burakumin, similar to India's untouchables, with a history of discrimination and social exclusion.
  2. Japanese belief in racial purity and homogeneity is rooted in historical constructs and national identity myths.
  3. Despite efforts to eliminate discrimination, Burakumin still face societal stigma and prejudice in Japan, impacting aspects like marriage and social status.

Apple IIe and IIc Design Manager Peter Quinn Interviewed by BYTE's Gregg Williams

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🕹 Technology History Design Interview Development Compatibility
  1. Peter Quinn was involved in the design of Apple IIe from the beginning, starting with a plan to enhance the keyboard and provide 80 columns, which led to the idea of expanding the memory to 128K.
  2. The development of Apple IIc was intertwined with the IIe project. The decision to create a more focused product led to the IIc design, which included built-in peripherals like a mouse port and two serial ports.
  3. Design challenges for the compact Apple IIc included managing heat and radiation effectively, with unique solutions like intricate venting schemes and careful layout of components to meet corporate specifications.

Tomb Raiders: A National Passtime

BowTiedMara - Geoarbitrage & Mobility Assets • 235 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Mystery Sports History Death
  1. Argentina has a history of bizarre tomb desecrations and superstitions surrounding famous figures like Eva Perón and Diego Maradona.
  2. The theft of Eva Perón's body and the curse of dead cats at Racing Club highlight the macabre relationship with former idols in Argentina.
  3. Superstition and mystery surround the desecration of Perón's tomb and Maradona's burial without his heart, showing famous bodies can't rest peacefully in Argentina.

Starting from scraps

Austin Kleon • 1238 implied HN points • 14 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media History
  1. Starting from limited resources can inspire creativity and lead to new ideas.
  2. The beauty of life is often found in our day-to-day experiences and connections, not just in grand adventures.
  3. Art and copyright law can clash, raising important questions about creativity and ownership.

Your Name In the UK. Plus an Unlikely Civil Rights Icon Speaks.

Non-Boring History • 393 implied HN points • 22 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History Civil Rights Religion Travel
  1. Learn about Virginia Foster Durr, a unique civil rights activist who made a significant impact in history.
  2. Explore the Westward migration across the US, and the 1849 Gold Rush, through the exclusive weekly series West With the Wagons.
  3. Get a fun perk for Nonnies - have your name actually printed and placed in Britain with this offer!

Audio Archaeology, 1971: Barbra Streisand Sings the First Recorded Steely Dan Becker/Fagen Song

Front Row & Backstage • 393 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🎶 Music History Songwriting Producer Musicians Albums
  1. The songwriters of Steely Dan, Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, had an interesting origin story starting from Bard College.
  2. Kenny Vance played a crucial role in discovering and managing Becker and Fagen, leading to the formation of Steely Dan.
  3. The journey of the Steely Dan songwriting team from anonymous staff writers to successful recording artists is a testament to their talent and perseverance.

Anomalies of the Aegean

ᴋʟᴀᵾs • 393 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🔬 Science Evolution History Research
  1. Researchers found evidence of pre-sapiens hominin activity on Aegean Islands before Homo sapiens existed.
  2. Study suggests hominins sailed the Mediterranean half a million years ago, challenging human dispersal theories.
  3. The research highlights the need to rethink what we know about human migration not just in Greece, but globally.

What's In A (Lesbian) Word?

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 393 implied HN points • 09 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture History Community Activism
  1. The language used to describe gender and sexuality has evolved over time, influencing societal norms and individual identities.
  2. Historical terms like 'lesbian,' 'sapphic,' and 'dyke' have complex origins and meanings that have shifted across different time periods.
  3. Contemporary identity language, like 'WLW' and 'queer,' reflects ongoing debates about inclusivity and reclaiming terms within the LGBTQ+ community.

Writing Life at Home

Non-Boring History • 393 implied HN points • 30 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature History Art Travel Society
  1. Elizabeth Gaskell, a prominent Victorian author, was a significant female literary figure of her time and her home is now a museum open to the public.
  2. Elizabeth Gaskell's house in Manchester showcased how she and her family lived, revealing her lifestyle and her significant contributions to literature.
  3. Mrs. Gaskell's home maintained a welcoming atmosphere for visitors, with volunteers offering insights into her life, and the museum allowing interaction with Victorian-style items.

The Deep Slumber of A Decided Opinion

Hold That Thought by Sarah Haider • 393 implied HN points • 29 May 23
🎭️ Culture Opinion Identity History Ideology Values
  1. Wokeism focuses inward on personal truths rather than outward on universal truths or solutions.
  2. Sloppy scholarship and narrow perspectives in woke movements hinder understanding and progress on social justice.
  3. The inherited prosperity and privilege in America contribute to susceptibility to simplistic persuasion and emotional appeals.

The Haunting Beauty of "Wichita Lineman" - Glen Campbell and James Taylor

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 99 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists Songs History Genres Memories
  1. The song 'Wichita Lineman' by Glen Campbell evokes deep emotions, often making listeners feel nostalgic or even cry.
  2. Glen Campbell and James Taylor both have a special talent for connecting with people's feelings through their music, making their songs resonate with many.
  3. Glen Campbell had a remarkable career and was part of the famous Wrecking Crew, a group that played on many hit songs in the 60s and 70s.

Off to see the wizard

Austin Kleon • 1318 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Art Music History
  1. Re-watching movies like The Wizard of Oz can bring out strong emotions and memories we didn't realize we had. The experience can help us connect with our past selves.
  2. The idea of 'there's no place like home' in the movie feels unrealistic for many, as it contrasts with the exciting world of Oz. This highlights the tension between wanting to leave and the comfort of staying.
  3. Movies can teach us about self-authorization. The realization that we are the ones who give ourselves permission to pursue our dreams can be a powerful lesson.