The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

He So Horny

Mister Slang • 196 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Cuckoldry in history is related to natural history and terms like 'horny' stem from old German farming practices.
  2. The concept of 'wearing horns' generated a vocabulary around cuckoldry and male infidelity.
  3. Slang terms for male reproductive organs and impotence reveal societal attitudes about virility and masculinity.

Young Lords and Their Traces

Regress Studies • 196 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. The novel 'On The Marble Cliffs' by Ernst Jünger is highly praised and considered a favorite read of the year with its allegorical brilliance and intense narrative.
  2. Artist Theaster Gates focuses on salvaging precious items in a paradoxical approach blending black radicalism with conservative preservation.
  3. Two essays discuss the concepts of modernization theory in global development and the challenges faced by nations transitioning to a service-based economy, particularly in comparison to China.

A Requiem for Techno-Optimism

Banana Peel Pirouette • 138 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The song '1995' by Molly Nilsson, initially thought to be about nostalgia, turned out to be an ode to Windows 95, showcasing how technology can evoke nostalgic feelings.
  2. The release of Windows 95 marked a significant shift in computing accessibility, making home computing more user-friendly and marking a pivotal moment in the technological revolution.
  3. The 1990s era of techno-optimism, characterized by the rise of consumer technology like Windows 95 and the early internet, reflected an atmosphere of overall optimism and excitement for the possibilities of the digital future.
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Zelensky As A War Leader

Phillips’s Newsletter • 94 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics History
  1. It's important not to think any war leader is irreplaceable. Sometimes new leaders can bring fresh energy and ideas that improve the situation.
  2. When leaders get too much praise, they might not accept criticism well. This can make them think they're always right, which isn't good for making tough decisions.
  3. History shows that changing leadership during a war can lead to better outcomes, like when David Lloyd George took over from Henry Asquith in World War I and made things more effective.

What I Learned Reading London: The Biography

Londonist: Time Machine • 99 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The post shares insights on reading 'London: The Biography' highlighting stats and bloopers.
  2. The author thanks new paying subscribers and mentions a successful feature on London: The Biography that attracted many new readers.
  3. There was a recent drinks night with a dozen readers, creating a sense of community and engagement among the subscribers.

Cage Fight: Musk vs. OpenAI

Surfing the Future • 79 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. Elon Musk filed a lawsuit against OpenAI for allegedly prioritizing AI for profit over humanity's benefit, highlighting concerns about AGI's threats.
  2. The concept of cliodynamics examines the recurring patterns of extreme inequality and elite infighting throughout history, reflecting on current societal tensions.
  3. The Musk vs. OpenAI conflict raises questions about the influence of wealth and power in society, hinting at deeper societal currents and potential consequences.

The Cathedral

The Commonplace • 1089 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality History
  1. When facing challenges, it's important to remain constructive and positive.
  2. Visiting historic places like cathedrals can provide perspective and inspiration.
  3. Endurance, sacrifice, and contributing to something greater than oneself can bring meaning and solace.

Soothing the injured spirit of the Temple

Wrong Side of History • 299 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The Elgin Marbles are a point of controversy, with many people in Greece wanting them returned. Recent talks suggest they could be loaned to Greece, potentially making this arrangement permanent.
  2. Public opinion in Britain is largely in favor of returning the Marbles, although not everyone feels strongly about it. The British Museum has a history of preserving important artifacts, which some believe justifies keeping the Marbles.
  3. Historically, Britain has been seen as a protector of global heritage through its museums. Many antiquities could have been lost without British efforts to preserve them, as demonstrated by the destruction of cultural sites in conflict zones.

Setting up my new blogging engine

Overthinking Everything • 314 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Using a typewriter is a unique and physical writing experience. It feels different from typing on a computer or handwriting because you have to hit the keys hard to get the letters to show up.
  2. Setting up a typewriter can be complex but satisfying. You may need to fix things like the ribbon, which teaches you about how mechanical objects work.
  3. Writing on a typewriter can help you focus better. Unlike computers, which distract you with notifications, a typewriter keeps you engaged in the writing process.

Walking Sofia (Bulgaria)

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 804 implied HN points • 29 Dec 23
🏝 Travel History
  1. Sofia, Bulgaria is an underappreciated city with an insecure identity.
  2. Despite self-criticism, Sofia is a wonderful city with delicious Bulgarian cuisine that deserves recognition.
  3. There is a lack of advice and pride in Bulgarian culture and food in Sofia, despite its worth.

What Is Beauty?

Life and Letters • 59 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Sexual attraction plays a big role in art and beauty. It has been important in history but seems less central in today's discussions about aesthetics.
  2. Richard Prum's theory explains that beauty in the animal world, like a peacock's tail, comes from sexual selection rather than just survival needs. Animals choose mates based on beauty, which shapes what traits get passed down.
  3. Culture and biology are deeply connected when it comes to beauty and desire. This idea can be seen in literature from ancient times, where beautiful characters are often depicted as more desirable than strong ones.

Coming Soon! Science & Scientism

Fields & Energy • 139 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🔬 Science History
  1. The discussion will explore the differences between science and scientism, which refers to an excessive reliance on scientific methods or claims.
  2. Francis Bacon is a key historical figure in the development of modern science, particularly with his influence on the Royal Society.
  3. A livestream event featuring experts will dive deeper into these topics, highlighting the philosophical aspects of science.

Phone booths

The Leftovers • 139 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Phone booths in the UK were used for advertising sexual services with flyers, with interesting transformations over time, highlighting cultural shifts.
  2. Superheroes like Superman and British vigilante fantasies have unique associations with phone booths, showcasing creative interpretations of iconic imagery.
  3. The song "Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in My Hand" captures themes of confusion, existential observation, and beauty, resonating with the complexities of life.

How much do we need to know?

Men Yell at Me • 244 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. It's important to think about how much information we actually need to navigate our lives. Too much information can be overwhelming.
  2. There are moments in history that feel significant, and they often change the course of events. Recognizing these moments can help us understand our world better.
  3. Engagement with political figures and movements can shape society. It's crucial to be aware of who we support and the impact they have.

The Germanic Thunderweapon Part I: Mjollnir’s True Power

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 119 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. Mjollnir from Norse mythology might not be as heavy as commonly believed, and doesn't require a strength-girdle to wield.
  2. There is no requirement of worthiness to lift Mjollnir, and it can be used by characters other than Thor.
  3. Iron gloves are mentioned in only one story, hinting they might not be necessary for using Mjollnir, despite Snorri's assertion.

A Requiem for Techno-Optimism

Banana Peel Pirouette • 118 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The 1990s techno-optimism was a period when many assumed that history was moving towards an intensified democratic capitalist future.
  2. Vaporwave music and aesthetics reflect a sense of nostalgia for a future that never arrived due to disillusionment with consumerism, pollution, and unmet technological promises.
  3. Vaporwave's emergence from the internet allowed it to create its own visual style, untouched by traditional music scenes, portraying a retro-futuristic world obsolesced by modern technology.

Five Books on China

The Library of Alexandria Ultima • 28 implied HN points • 17 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. China's rapid economic growth is shaped by strong government support for industries, which contrasts with the U.S. approach to free trade. Learning from China's industrial policy could be important for America's future.
  2. Literature can provide a deep insight into China's past and present, highlighting how individual stories reflect broader historical trends and challenges faced by the country.
  3. Understanding China's history helps explain its current policies and attitudes, especially concerning foreign influence and internal stability, as shown through key events like the Taiping Rebellion.

A Shameful History, Part 3

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 179 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Teaching accurate and unvarnished history, including the dark and painful parts, is crucial for understanding and preventing the repetition of past atrocities.
  2. Lynchings were not isolated acts but bold, public events that affected whole communities and reinforced systemic racism.
  3. By learning about and acknowledging the history of lynching, we equip ourselves to recognize and address present dangers, ensuring a better future for all.

America Isn't a Heritage

KERFUFFLE • 85 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. America was founded by people wanting to escape old traditions like bloodlines and aristocracy. The idea was to create a society where anyone could succeed through hard work, not just because of their ancestry.
  2. The term 'Heritage Americans' suggests some people are more American than others based on their lineage. This idea ignores the diverse history and cultures that have always been part of America.
  3. Throughout its history, America has been a mix of different cultures and backgrounds. The unity of the nation comes from overcoming differences and working together, not from sharing the same bloodline.

The Explicit Baseball Card Edition

Why is this interesting? • 301 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎾 Sports History
  1. Billy Ripken's baseball card from 1989 is famous for its hilarious and playful mistake. It features something unexpected that caught fans' attention.
  2. Baseball cards were a big deal for many kids, with the thrill of finding rare ones like the Michael Jordan card.
  3. Different brands of baseball cards had their own unique styles, with Fleer being seen as less premium compared to brands like Upper Deck.

Links for June

By Reason Alone • 110 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. It's important to understand how trade agreements really work because they involve many details beyond just tariffs. Knowing the ins and outs can help you talk smarter about trade.
  2. Dublin's water infrastructure has been poorly managed for decades, with no new sources being built since 1940. This shows a serious need for investment and improvement.
  3. Exercise can help you feel more connected to your body and improve your mental health. Many people overlook the importance of physical activity and its positive effects on life.

Hormesis

Becoming Noble • 179 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. In order for a civilization to thrive, there must be a strong connection between the environment, the people, and the individual, leading to the creation of exceptional individuals who can shape the culture and environment.
  2. Living in a harsh environment can breed strength, discipline, and resilience, as seen in the example of the Avar people who thrived in the challenging Caucasus mountains.
  3. The Avars, through their culture and upbringing, developed a community of warriors who could endure suffering and hardship, using their pain as a tool for personal growth and societal strength.

Strange Lives

Life and Letters • 59 implied HN points • 26 Mar 24
📚 Literature History
  1. Marriage in the past often involved complicated discussions about money and family, just like today. The way partners handle these issues can lead to tensions.
  2. People in earlier times were concerned about remarriage and family dynamics, especially due to high mortality rates. They thought about how relationships would impact their children in the future.
  3. Age played a significant role in marriage decisions. For example, marrying young was less common by the Elizabethan period, showing changing views on when to start a family.

Private thread: Can the humanities save cities and companies money?

The Recovering Academic • 178 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. One way to address water shortages in the American Southwest is through interdisciplinary approaches, such as investing in research, conservation initiatives, and public education rather than just focusing on increasing water supply.
  2. The aesthetic preferences and perceptions of beauty, particularly influenced by imported European ideals, play a significant role in creating water problems in regions like Arizona, highlighting the potential impact of humanities like art and literature in reshaping these views.
  3. Considering humanities expertise, including art, religion, philosophy, and history, could potentially offer valuable solutions to economic challenges faced by cities and companies beyond just water shortages.

The Myth of Cain and Abel

Banana Peel Pirouette • 178 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
📚 Literature History
  1. The Cain and Abel story can be interpreted as representing the agricultural revolution and its societal impacts.
  2. The narrative reflects the conflict between nomadic pastoral and sedentary farming societies, highlighting the transformative role of agriculture.
  3. Through the characters of Cain and Abel, the story also delves into the historical consequences of agriculture, including slavery, inequality, and the exploitation of labor.

Britain's weird hate for air conditioning

Odds and Ends of History • 134 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Britain has a strange dislike for air conditioning, which affects how people stay cool in hot weather. It seems many prefer to tough it out rather than use AC.
  2. There are ongoing delays in UK projects like HS2, which is causing frustration for those hoping for improvements in transport. People are looking for better public transport options, especially buses.
  3. A recent report suggests building more homes and smaller living spaces could help with housing shortages. It also points out that more air conditioning might make these homes more comfortable.

The Fat Whores of London

The Heart Attack Diet • 139 implied HN points • 25 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. There were fat people throughout history, such as during the Victorian era, but statistics on obesity were not widely kept.
  2. Images of fat Victorians and the availability of food during the time suggest that calories were abundant for those who could afford them.
  3. An Italian doctor in London in 1897 created BMI scores for prostitutes, aiming to link obesity with immorality, revealing societal views and practices of that time.

Plus Ça Change, Plus C'est the Same Shit

Dada Drummer Almanach • 274 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. History often repeats itself, especially during tough times like culture wars. Understanding the past can help us navigate current challenges.
  2. In the 1950s, young musicians faced threats from a culture war but found ways to support each other and thrive despite the pressures around them.
  3. It's important to focus on surviving and adapting during difficult periods rather than arguing about what's better. There are always paths to move forward.

Why Is There Antisemitism?

Fake Noûs • 253 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Antisemitism has deep historical roots, where Jews have often been unfairly blamed for various problems in society. This has led to longstanding prejudices against them.
  2. Cultural and religious differences have led to misunderstandings, contributing to the negative views about Jewish people. Many times, leaders have used Jews as scapegoats to distract from other issues.
  3. Modern antisemitism is fueled by conspiracy theories and ongoing conflicts, particularly the Arab-Israeli conflict. This often intensifies negative perceptions of Jews, even though these biases are widespread beyond just that conflict.

Plato sold MILLIONS using this one trick…

ancientlifecoach • 176 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🚌 Education History
  1. Plato used historical fiction to bring attention to his counter-intuitive ideas
  2. To reach a wider audience, learn about and incorporate other people's heroes in your content
  3. Stepping outside your comfort zone and exploring different fields can help make your content more engaging

Learning From Butch History

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 176 implied HN points • 06 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Butch lesbians have been misunderstood and not fully recognized for their contributions to society.
  2. Butch Lineages is a DIY research group in the UK focused on connecting butches to their history and each other.
  3. Being part of Butch Lineages provides a sense of community, acceptance, and a space for diverse butches to share and learn from each other.

Men in 1973 vs Men in 2023

diabolical • 176 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Meme about men in 1973 vs men in 2023 highlights changing perceptions of masculinity over time.
  2. Appearance can be deceiving when it comes to masculinity; deeper discussions are needed on men's issues in today's society.
  3. Cultural tensions around freedom and masculinity depicted in the film 'Easy Rider' still resonate today.

Texas Tuxedo

Momspreading • 176 implied HN points • 22 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The author reminisces about their family's Texas roots and reflections on visiting old haunts.
  2. The experience of exploring ancestral graves and family history in Texas cemetery.
  3. Reflections on their relationship with a beloved godfather from Texas and the impact on their life.