The hottest History Substack posts right now

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love letters to places i'll never meet

escape the algorithm • 279 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Neighborhoods hold memories beyond just businesses; they shape our potential futures and sense of self.
  2. Reflecting on the past and what could have been helps us appreciate the present and understand the concept of love.
  3. Creating digital projects like 'love letters to places i'll never meet' can bring back memories and evoke emotions tied to lost spaces.

Charlotte's satirical crusader for social change

The Charlotte Ledger • 157 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Harry Golden used humor to advocate for civil rights and social justice in Charlotte during the 1950s and '60s.
  2. Golden's satirical essays in 'Carolina Israelite' addressed societal inequalities and injustices in a humorous way, gaining him fame and recognition.
  3. Golden's approach of using satire to highlight issues like segregation and discrimination made him a well-known champion of the oppressed, with a wide readership and impact.

Our Dumb Century

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1520 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Avoid personally targeted combative writing to maintain dignity.
  2. Genius in literature accrues over centuries, can't be rushed or self-proclaimed.
  3. Value the cultivation of tradition and great works for a deeper understanding of humanity.

The Gift of Defeat

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 29 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Russia’s problem is structural, not just one leader. Its state is built like an empire that legitimizes itself through conquest and then denies responsibility.
  2. The Federation rules by coercion: it erases cultures, disproportionately conscripts people from ethnic regions, and uses force to keep internal colonies weak. Imperial tools like forced resettlement and mass mobilization dissolve minority communities.
  3. The Free World should back a clear Ukrainian victory aimed at destroying Russia’s imperial capacity, not merely humbling a leader. Only defeat that ends occupation and forces a reckoning can create space for security, freedom for neighbors, and possible moral and political renewal inside Russia.

Why wasn't preservation with the goal of potential future revival started earlier in history?

Neurobiology Notes • 176 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🔬 Science History
  1. Despite preservation with the goal of future revival not being proposed for most of human history, in 1962, Evan Cooper and Robert Ettinger independently introduced the concept of cryonics.
  2. Factors influencing the delay in proposing preservation with future revival include a need for optimism in technological progress, willingness to take risks, and advances in preservation technology.
  3. Other possible reasons for the delayed start include societal restrictions, advancements in information theory, and the idea that preservation does not need to be perfect to be pursued.
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The Grand Stand

Computer Ads from the Past • 512 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. The Grand Stand is a joystick floor stand designed to improve comfort and control while gaming. It helps reduce wrist and elbow fatigue.
  2. It's made of solid wood with a nice finish and was available in two models with different prices. The stand elevates the joystick for better access.
  3. Computer gaming magazines in the early 80s featured this product, noting its benefits for improved gameplay and reduced discomfort.

The Spy Travel Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🏝 Travel History
  1. The U.S. government had a significant influence on the creation of modern American travel guides through literal spies like Eugene Fodor and Temple Fielding.
  2. Eugene Fodor, a successful guidebook publisher, was an officer for the CIA's predecessor during WWII and continued to use spies as writers for his company.
  3. The travel industry has evolved from its CIA roots to offer guides catering to various interests and lifestyles, providing valuable insights into different cultures beyond borders.

Top Links 589 How US arrivistes do it better. Exceptionalism weighed. Sino-Saudi ties. The global cotton boom and slavery in Egypt.

Chartbook • 457 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. US exceptionalism can be seen in how new arrivals succeed differently compared to other countries. It shows a unique approach to opportunity and wealth.
  2. Understanding Sino-Saudi relationships is important for seeing how global politics are formed today. These connections affect trade and influence between nations.
  3. The global cotton industry has a dark history tied to slavery, especially in Egypt. This highlights ongoing issues of human rights in worldwide supply chains.

Christmas Mailbag!

Odds and Ends of History • 469 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The author is currently on vacation in New Zealand and hasn't spent much time on his phone. This shows the importance of taking breaks from technology.
  2. He addresses reader questions in a mailbag format, highlighting curiosity around popular figures like Elon Musk and ongoing projects like HS2.
  3. The discussion includes whether people like Musk are genuinely involved in their companies or just figureheads, raising questions about understanding and knowledge in leadership roles.

Was Carl Jung Antisemitic?

The Living Philosophy • 176 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. There are accusations of Carl Jung being antisemitic due to his entanglements with Nazi Germany, but he also had Jewish friends and later explored Jewish mystical philosophy like Kabballah.
  2. Jung's involvement with organizations that had Nazi affiliations, such as promoting 'Mein Kampf' as required reading for psychotherapists, raised questions about his leanings.
  3. Some of Jung's comments, like comparing Jewish people to 'weak like women' or having a 'lower potential psyche,' have been viewed as potentially antisemitic, but context suggests a nuanced evaluation is needed.

Vol. 2, Issue 13 - Memories of Pokétour 1999

Johto Times • 99 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The PokéTour 1999 was a big Pokémon event in Australia where fans could get their own Mew and try out the Pokémon Trading Card Game for the first time. It was super exciting for all the kids who attended.
  2. Attendees received special goodies, like exclusive Pokémon cards and cool merchandise, but many didn't realize how valuable those cards would become later.
  3. With the upcoming discontinuation of online services for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, fans should be aware that some Pokémon games might lose their online features soon.

Is Wikipedia Reliable? (2023 Redux)

Everything Is Amazing • 1479 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Wikipedia is admired despite occasional inaccuracies because it provides constructive and inspiring information on the internet.
  2. Some Wikipedia articles have turned out to be elaborate hoaxes that fooled editors for years.
  3. While Wikipedia may have flaws and prank edits, its communal and updatable nature highlights a more dynamic and diverse approach to knowledge sharing compared to traditional encyclopedias.

Issue 07 is Coming on Monday

Asimov Press • 161 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🔬 Science History
  1. The upcoming issue will explore the unclear history of aspirin, revealing that many established facts might be incorrect. A deep dive into its origins promises to be fascinating and informative.
  2. There's a discussion about the potential resurgence of leech therapy, highlighting its effectiveness and how modern understanding might revive this ancient practice.
  3. The issue will also cover the advancements in gene delivery methods, making it easier to understand how modern therapies are developed, showcasing improvements over older techniques.

Curator

Castalia • 299 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Liberalism is seen by some as losing energy and direction. There are calls for change, but people are unsure what will come next.
  2. Generation X reflects on their cultural identity and feelings of betrayal regarding the societal changes after the idealism of the 1960s. They struggle with the disillusionment of unmet hopes.
  3. Writers like Don DeLillo express concerns about how modern life has altered identities, making people feel more disconnected, while still hoping to capture the essence of shared human experiences.

How London's West End Streets Got Their Names

Londonist: Time Machine • 299 implied HN points • 16 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. London's West End streets have interesting origin stories that explain their names like Charing Cross and Soho.
  2. Some streets in London, like the Strand, have intriguing naming conventions that differ from common usage, such as 'the Strand' being officially labeled as 'Strand' on street signs.
  3. For more detailed insights on the history of London's West End streets, subscribing to 'Londonist: Time Machine' offers access to a wealth of information with a 7-day free trial.

Life And Poetry Of James Clifford

The Lifeboat • 206 implied HN points • 21 May 25
📚 Literature History
  1. James Clifford was an English poet who became famous in the Soviet Union, despite being completely unknown in his own country. His powerful poems resonated with readers in a way that inspired translations and widespread admiration.
  2. Clifford's poetry captured deep truths about life, war, and freedom, which was refreshing for poets like Vladimir Lifshitz, who sought genuine expression in a censored environment. His work often conveyed feelings that many Soviet poets could not express openly.
  3. Despite his tragic death during World War II, Clifford's legacy lived on through Lifshitz's translations, which helped him gain recognition. Over time, he became a literary character in the eyes of some, illustrating the complexities of fame, recognition, and truth in literature.

Turing's Work on the Riemann Hypothesis

Cantor's Paradise • 379 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🔬 Science History
  1. Alan Turing is famous for his work in computer science and cryptography, but he also made important contributions to number theory, specifically the Riemann hypothesis.
  2. The Riemann hypothesis centers on a mathematical function which helps in understanding the distribution of prime numbers, and it remains unproven after over 160 years.
  3. Turing created special computers to help calculate values related to the Riemann hypothesis, showing his deep interest in the question of prime numbers and mathematical truth.

RTF lecture invitation with Gordon McCormick - 1979: A Polarized Persia (Jan. 28 at 2pm ET)

Matt Ehret's Insights • 157 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Live lecture on January 28 at 2pm Eastern Time with Gordon McCormick about Anglo-American intelligence in the Middle East and the 1979 Iranian revolution
  2. Presentation will focus on the historical influence of Anglo-American intelligence in Iran
  3. Event organized by the Rising Tide Foundation and requires paid subscription to access

RedNote, Uber Eats in Kinmen, Jimmy Carter's Taiwan Legacy, AI EO and More

ChinaTalk • 385 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. RedNote, a popular Chinese social media app, has become a new favorite for TikTok users in search of a platform that connects them with genuine interactions. People are enjoying sharing jokes and cultural experiences across borders.
  2. Jimmy Carter's approach to U.S.-China relations helped protect Taiwan's interests, allowing the U.S. to provide arms to Taiwan even after recognizing China. His actions laid the groundwork for Taiwan's future as a democratic society.
  3. Uber Eats is expanding its reach in Kinmen, Taiwan, but it faces unique challenges like local mischievous monkeys that like to swipe food from delivery drivers. This highlights the quirky side of food delivery in the region.

Miraculous to Mundane

Bastiat's Window • 294 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
🕹 Technology History
  1. The essay reflects on past cultural and technological firsts, highlighting how amazement over innovations shifts over time.
  2. Personal anecdotes from different decades show the evolution of technology, from fax machines to personal computers to internet access.
  3. The narrative showcases how advancements in communication, like email and video calls, have transformed interactions and access to information over the years.

This Is Paradise

Life and Letters • 59 implied HN points • 13 May 24
📚 Literature History
  1. Infanticide was a common practice in many historical societies when families couldn't care for all their children. It often happened without legal punishment, especially against unwanted infants.
  2. Although Christianity introduced strong taboos against infanticide, it might not have completely stopped the practice. Evidence suggests that infanticide, particularly sex-selective infanticide, still occurred in Europe despite its legal prohibition.
  3. Infanticide impacts literature by influencing themes of abandonment and family dynamics. Many classic stories use these themes to convey deeper truths about society and the struggles people faced.

A song for you

Disaffected Newsletter • 619 implied HN points • 25 Mar 23
🎶 Music History
  1. Nostalgia can provide comfort and make us feel better about the present.
  2. Music often evokes memories and emotions that connect us to past experiences.
  3. Sharing music and memories with others can strengthen our bonds and create a sense of community.

The Story of P. tampanensis: Psychedelia, Murder, & the Evolution of Magic Truffles

Tripsitter • 159 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness History
  1. Psilocybe tampanensis, also known as Philosopher's Stones, was one of the first magic truffles species cultivated, kickstarting the truffle market in the Netherlands.
  2. Magic truffles, while named for resemblance to true truffles, are not for reproduction but help species survive harsh conditions like drought.
  3. The story of Psilocybe tampanensis involves a fascinating history including accidental legalization due to Dutch laws, a tragic murder of the discoverer Steven Pollock, and a revival of the species by Stephen Peele.

How The Modern World Lost & Found Its Newest Continent

Everything Is Amazing • 1398 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🔬 Science History
  1. Zealandia is a potential new continent, mapped in 2023, with its status still debated.
  2. Continents are typically identified by convention rather than strict criteria, leading to inconsistencies in definitions.
  3. There are millions of islands around the world, with many being uninhabited despite significant populations on some continents.

Ukraine's Superiority

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 01 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Ukraine struggled a lot during World War II and played a huge role in fighting against Hitler, but this is often ignored by Russia. This history shows how strong and resilient Ukrainians are.
  2. Despite being outnumbered, Ukraine has shown strong strategic abilities in defending against Russia. Their quick adaptations helped them gain the support of NATO and other allies.
  3. Even with tough conditions, Ukrainians remain determined and united, wanting to achieve victory. Their focus is on rebuilding and joining the European Union, showing their hope for the future.

What's got my attention this week #26

The Shift With Sam Baker • 239 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Tracy Chapman recently became the first black artist to win a CMA Award for Fast Car.
  2. Various thought-provoking topics were touched upon, like compost's hidden treasures and the challenges writers face in making a living.
  3. The post highlights a range of interesting articles, from a profile of Lauren Sánchez to Robbie Williams advocating for taking 'manopause' seriously.

Welcome to Christina Lake

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🏝 Travel History
  1. The Old Rossland Cascade Highway used to be the only route from Rossland to Vancouver until 1962, but it's not very popular today.
  2. Rossland, known as 'the golden city', started as a mining town where gold literally shook off trucks on Main Street.
  3. A local named Rob shared interesting history about the area, adding to the adventure exploring its past.

Messing with Maps: Ski area history edition

The Land Desk • 157 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🏝 Travel History
  1. Historical ski areas in southwest Colorado faced challenges in development and funding.
  2. Ski areas like Kendall Mountain in Silverton have interesting stories of past attempts and eventual success.
  3. There were many local ski hills in southwest Colorado, but in the early 1980s regulations started impacting operations.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 38

Why is this interesting? • 361 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The C-17 Globemaster is a powerful military aircraft that's very maneuverable, like a sports car. It's known for its strength and versatility in transport missions.
  2. The Palais Garnier in Paris is a stunning opera house, and there are beautiful images showcasing its rich interior. It's a historic venue that attracts many visitors.
  3. The way we interpret classic literature, like 'The Great Gatsby', can change over time. A leading expert dives into how our understanding may have missed important themes.

Francophobia

Close-reading the reruns with Phoebe Maltz Bovy • 137 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Learning a language through academia can come with unexpected challenges and pressures.
  2. Self-consciousness about language proficiency can hinder one's ability to communicate comfortably.
  3. Overcoming insecurities about speaking a language can lead to more fulfilling interactions.

⤴✊ The techno-optimism of a 1970s Black Power activist and poet

Faster, Please! • 456 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Nikki Giovanni was a prominent poet and activist known for her strong views on race and social justice. She wrote about significant issues such as politics and love with a unique voice.
  2. Her work was influenced by the Civil Rights and Black Power movements, making her a key figure in the Black Arts Movement. This helped her gain recognition as the 'Poet of the Black Revolution.'
  3. Giovanni's perspective encouraged a sense of optimism and hope in the 1970s, contrasting with some of today's social justice narratives which may feel more negative.

Nomen est Omen (repost)

Secretum Secretorum • 353 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. An aptronym is when someone's name fits their job really well, like Usain Bolt being the fastest runner. There are also inaptronyms, where the name is ironically related to the profession.
  2. Nominative determinism is the idea that a person's name might influence their career choices and how others see them. A catchy name can give someone more confidence and help them succeed.
  3. Names have a cultural impact and can reflect community values. Different cultures use names flexibly and humorously, shaping how individuals relate to themselves and others.

Syria

backstory • 436 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🏝 Travel History
  1. Syria has a rich and complex history with many layers, from ancient Roman influences to the modern political unrest. The country has beautiful places that tell stories of its past.
  2. People in Syria have a unique way of life, filled with vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and warm hospitality. Even in tough times, the culture shines through.
  3. The personal experiences of individuals show how life in Syria has changed dramatically over the years, with many living in fear or facing loss. It's important to remember the people behind the headlines.

Ely Cathedral and the beauty of progress.

The Common Reader • 1098 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. Ely Cathedral showcases the evolution of architectural progress from Romanesque to Gothic styles.
  2. The transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture highlights the significant engineering improvements that allowed for artistic advancements.
  3. The beauty and grandeur of Gothic architecture in Ely Cathedral represent a high point in Western architectural history.

SPOOKY SEASON EXTRAVAGANZA BONANZAHHHHHHH!!!!1!!!!1!!!!1!!

Secretum Secretorum • 505 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Nongqawuse was a Xhosa prophetess who convinced her people to destroy their crops and cattle, believing it would lead to a better future. Unfortunately, her prophecy failed, causing widespread famine.
  2. Victor Brauner was a painter known for his eerie art, which seemed to predict his future misfortune of losing sight in one eye. His life became a reflection of his work as he experienced similar events.
  3. Augustin Lesage, a miner, heard a voice that encouraged him to become a painter. He began creating artwork guided by what he thought were spirits, eventually gaining recognition for his unique style.

Western Life Is Only One Way to Live

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 145 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The idea that Western civilization is the only way to live is just a myth. There are many different ways of life that exist across the world.
  2. Capitalism and a rigid social hierarchy are often seen as the inevitable outcome of civilization, but this isn't the only possibility. Many cultures have lived in ways that challenge these norms.
  3. The way people treat each other reflects their culture and values. Non-Western societies often had more egalitarian relationships, emphasizing community support instead of competition and greed.