The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

What's the frequency, Tom?

Sundman figures it out! • 176 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The author shares personal stories and reflections from different points in their life, highlighting moments of realization and connection.
  2. The importance of intuition, symbols, and signs in guiding life choices and experiences.
  3. Reflecting on the interconnectedness of experiences and the mysteries of life.

Political Science

Life in the 21st Century • 176 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Science and politics are intertwined, and there is a need to integrate scientific understanding into political decision-making.
  2. Democracy is about taking action and beginning something new, with every citizen playing a role in decision-making and implementation.
  3. The power to act in modern politics has shifted towards scientists and technologists, highlighting the importance of understanding the influence of science and technology in political systems.

Where the stores are

Tabletops • 176 implied HN points • 08 May 23
🕹 Technology History
  1. A glimpse into the nostalgic past of Apple store openings in malls.
  2. Interesting details about the first Apple store locations and connections to other brands.
  3. Apple's recent event at the Tower Theatre showcased the blend of classical music and technology.

American Economic History Midterm This Friday!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 199 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🚌 Education History
  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.
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Graphic Content & Cyber Monday: the year’s deepest discount

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 274 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🔬 Science History
  1. Cyber Monday is a great opportunity to get a good deal on subscriptions, like locking in an annual rate of $50.
  2. Population trends show that regions like South Asia and Africa will have significant growth, changing global dynamics in the coming decades.
  3. Ancient DNA research is revealing new insights about human evolution and genetics, showing how our ancestors adapted to challenges over time.

sunday extra mean pool

bad cattitude • 108 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The world can feel harsh and full of missed chances. It's important to recognize these feelings and acknowledge the challenges we face.
  2. Sometimes we need to take a step back and notice the things happening around us. This helps us stay aware of our experiences and struggles.
  3. Having a space to share these thoughts can be beneficial. Connecting with others helps us process what we feel together.

An Introduction to Donkeyspace

Donkeyspace • 9 implied HN points • 05 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Games are a broad category — from video games to board games, sports, party games, and theoretical models — and studying them helps reveal how rules, play, emergence, and systems work.
  2. Games are an artform that mixes creative, aesthetic experience with technical, STEM-like qualities, so conversations about them naturally involve taste, craft, identity, history, ideas, and ethics.
  3. Games act as metaphors, models, and laboratories for big philosophical and practical questions, and because our world is increasingly driven by software and new technologies, games can offer valuable insight for understanding and shaping the future.

Gregor Mendel's Vanishing Act

Asimov Press • 232 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🔬 Science History
  1. Gregor Mendel, known as the father of genetics, did much more than just his famous pea experiments. He worked across various scientific fields and made important discoveries about inheritance long before it was fully understood.
  2. Sadly, many of Mendel's notes and findings were destroyed after his death, leaving behind an incomplete representation of his life’s work. This loss means we might never fully appreciate the depth of his contributions.
  3. Mendel's educational journey was filled with challenges, including health issues that impacted his ability to become a teacher. Ironically, these struggles led him to his groundbreaking research in genetics, which changed biology forever.

A state of flow

Austin Kleon • 1119 implied HN points • 22 Oct 21
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi is known for the concept of 'flow', which describes a state of being fully immersed in an activity. It’s important to recognize moments when we feel completely engaged and focused.
  2. Joy Williams is a talented short story writer whose work can be enjoyed through various podcasts. Listening to authors read their stories can provide a deeper appreciation for their writing.
  3. David Epstein’s book 'Range' discusses the benefits of being a generalist in a world that often rewards specialization. It’s a good reminder that having a diverse range of skills and interests can be very valuable.

The Genetic History of the British Isles

Holodoxa • 139 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🔬 Science History
  1. Exploring genetic history through ancient DNA analysis is a fascinating discipline with different names like paleogenomics and genetic anthropology.
  2. Genetic studies on the British Isles, like the book 'Saxons, Vikings, and Celts,' highlight the complexities of genetic ancestry, including the influence of different ancient populations like the Bell Beaker culture.
  3. Haplogroup analysis, focusing on Y and mtDNA, provides insights into ancestry, although it may have limitations due to genetic drift, selection, and incomplete picture of the genome.

From Rubber Soul to Revolver

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 622 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🎶 Music History
  1. The author reflects on their childhood fascination with the Beatles and their decision to stop listening to their music after 1965 due to a fear of the band's evolution.
  2. The author delves into a deep analysis of the Beatles' albums, particularly highlighting the transition from 'Rubber Soul' to 'Revolver' and the complexity of the songs.
  3. There's a discussion on the cultural and societal impact of music in the 1960s, especially how artists like the Beatles and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys brought avant-garde experimentation into mainstream commercial culture.

Literary Precocity

Life and Letters • 59 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
📚 Literature History
  1. Literary precocity refers to young writers who show exceptional talent early in life. Writers like Abraham Cowley became famous for publishing their work at a very young age.
  2. The concept of precocity emerged around the early 1600s, influenced by the rise of print publication. Printing made it easier to track when someone officially became an author.
  3. Before print, it was hard to define when a writer crossed into authorship. With printed books, age and publication date became clear, creating a clear distinction between different types of writers.

Five... of London's Historical Musical Instruments, in Action

Londonist: Time Machine • 79 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment performs on historical instruments or faithful replicas, bringing a unique sound experience to their chamber music gigs in London pubs
  2. The Musical Museum in Brentford houses a remarkable 1929 Mighty Wurlitzer Cinema Organ, a rare piece used for silent films and currently looking for crowdfunding to avoid closure
  3. Exploring London's historical musical instruments offers a glimpse into the city's rich musical past and the unique experiences these instruments can provide

Ramadan: A centuries-old American tradition

Pen>Sword • 179 implied HN points • 24 Mar 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality History
  1. The first Muslims to celebrate Ramadan in America were enslaved Africans.
  2. Ramadan has a deep history in the US, going back to the antebellum era with enslaved Muslims fasting against oppressive slave codes.
  3. Today, Ramadan in the US reflects a multicultural tradition, highlighting the diverse Muslim community and the need to acknowledge and integrate the history of enslaved Muslims.

When Will Women Be Human?

Meaning || Matter • 19 implied HN points • 22 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Women in science, like the Morris sisters, often faced struggles for recognition and respect. Their hard work was sometimes overlooked because of the views society had about women's roles.
  2. Margaretta and Elizabeth Morris had to use clever strategies to get their scientific contributions noticed, like publishing anonymously and building relationships with influential men in science. They showed that persistence was key.
  3. Despite some advancements, women still had to fight for equality in scientific societies and other areas of life. This shows that the fight for women's rights is ongoing, and society needs to value women as equals.

On First Looking into Brand’s Whole Earth Catalog

Dada Drummer Almanach • 221 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The Whole Earth Catalog was more than just a book; it represented an idea that individuals can take control of their own education and lives. It promoted the power of personal agency in shaping one’s environment.
  2. Stewart Brand's famous quote about information highlights a tension between making information accessible and recognizing its value. While information can be freely shared in some ways, its worth still holds significant economic implications.
  3. The catalog’s legacy is complicated. It began with a vision of ecological awareness and individual empowerment, but its ideas have been co-opted by corporate interests, raising questions about the true impact of technology on society.

Baraka House, After Hours

Black Music and Black Muses • 157 implied HN points • 19 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. The post discusses Amiri Baraka's recount of an alien abduction and his reflections on grief and grandeur.
  2. There is a nuanced conviviality in the writing, with the backdrop of mourning and deep contemplation.
  3. The narrative delves into themes of holding patterns, historical trauma, and the complexity of nation-states.

Protests, Makeup, and a Whole Lotta Grateful Dead in Tour '74's Penultimate Stop

Flagging Down the Double E's • 78 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Tour '74 made a significant stop in Oakland, California, 50 years ago, with high anticipation and popularity in the music scene.
  2. The event featured local bands like Jefferson Airplane, Santana, and more, showcasing the vibrant music culture of the San Francisco area.
  3. A paid subscription is required to access the full post archives on Flagging Down the Double E's, with a 7-day free trial available.

A brief history of creativity (and power)

escape the algorithm • 179 implied HN points • 24 May 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Creativity has a complex history tied to power dynamics, transitioning from divine origins to human control over time.
  2. The concept of creativity evolved alongside the shift in gender roles and power dynamics, affecting societal views on art and innovation.
  3. In modern times, creativity is intertwined with capitalist productivity, leading to value creation and power imbalances in various spheres of society.

No yelling!

Austin Kleon • 879 implied HN points • 11 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Reading and re-reading thoughtful works can deepen your understanding, like Rebecca Solnit's writings about Virginia Woolf.
  2. Exploring archives and profiles of creative figures, such as the woman behind 'Goodnight Moon,' can be really inspiring.
  3. Finding new music and podcasts can enhance your listening experience, like discovering Cate Le Bon's albums or Annie Murphy Paul's ideas on thinking.

Adam Smith on the Potato Diet

The Heart Attack Diet • 119 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🍲 Food & Drink History
  1. Potatoes are considered to be a nourishing and suitable food for health, proven by the strength and beauty of individuals who consume them as a staple diet.
  2. Adam Smith raises questions about the healthiness of chips compared to potatoes on their own or in combination with other food items like meat and dairy.
  3. The historic example of the Irish potato famine serves as a cautionary tale against solely relying on a single food source like potatoes and the dangers of population explosions and monocultures.

Social Theory for the Mid-21st Century: Part III. How Can the Experiences of Past Societies of Domination Be Relevant for Us?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 269 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy History
  1. Past societies often operated under systems of domination, where a small elite would take resources from the majority. This made it difficult for anyone to improve their situation without facing threats or violence.
  2. Technological progress today is much faster than in earlier times. This rapid change creates new challenges that previous societies never had to deal with, making lessons from the past less applicable.
  3. Understanding the internal workings of elite groups in past societies can provide some insights today. However, we shouldn't assume we are bound by their limitations because our circumstances are very different.

☞ Milton's Rainbow

Cabinet of Wonders • 184 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
📚 Literature History
  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.

Maxell's MF 2-DD Floppies

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. Maxell started in 1960 as a battery company and later became well-known for making storage devices like audio cassette tapes.
  2. The MF 2-DD floppies from Maxell were a product in their lineup, showcasing the evolution of computer storage over the years.
  3. Maxell has a rich history of innovation, being the first to produce certain types of batteries and tapes in Japan.

The Mosaic of Urban Memory

The New Urban Order • 159 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. St. Louis has a deep history reflected in its urban architecture, but faces challenges due to population decline and urban renewal.
  2. The exhibit 'Urban Archeology: Lost Buildings of St. Louis' showcases salvaged architectural elements to create a 'mosaic of urban memory' that tells a story of past communities and structures.
  3. The exhibit emphasizes a different approach to historical preservation, focusing on individual artifacts to understand the broader narrative of St. Louis's urban fabric and the importance of valuing and defending historical elements.

Designer Drug Exposé: Introduction To Research Chemicals 🧪

Tripsitter • 159 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness History
  1. Designer drugs are synthetic substances meant to simulate the effects of known psychoactive drugs but with modified chemical structures to avoid legal restrictions.
  2. Designer drugs pose inherent risks like dosing variability, impurities, unknown toxicity, and dangers from unscrupulous vendors, highlighting the importance of harm reduction practices.
  3. The history of designer drugs spans decades, evolving through different eras with the introduction of AI-driven drug discovery, increased regulatory challenges, and a growing market of novel psychoactive substances.

Mystical Matriarchs: 10 Women Who Redefined the Psychedelic Landscape

Tripsitter • 159 implied HN points • 11 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Women have made significant contributions to the field of psychedelics, but their efforts are often overlooked compared to men.
  2. These women exhibited resilience in the face of societal challenges and disparities, showing immense dedication to their work.
  3. Their legacies, from healing with mushrooms to advocating for psychedelic therapy, serve as an important foundation for future advancements in the field of psychedelics.

The "Greatest Show on Earth"

Variations on a Theme • 99 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. In 1919, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circuses combined to create the 'Greatest Show on Earth' in New York City, marking a significant moment in circus history.
  2. John Ringling, a key figure behind this merger, built his circus empire and amassed an impressive collection of art, leading to the establishment of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, FL.
  3. Reflecting on the legacy of John Ringling and the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the post explores themes of art, culture, authoritarianism, and the evolving nature of entertainment and society.

O-Day - NOON

Remote View • 157 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🔬 Science History
  1. There is a livestream event on Feb 14, 2023 at 21:00 CET, so review previous materials beforehand.
  2. The post includes a list of references discussing various topics like solitons, plasmoids, and symbols from different cultures.
  3. The content hints at connections between ancient symbols, cosmic powers, and historical artifacts, suggesting deeper meanings or connections.

Five Things About... London Winters Through The Centuries

Londonist: Time Machine • 79 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. London has a long history of winters with various activities like jousting on ice, showcasing a mix of high-energy events and brutal sports.
  2. Despite the cold, Londoners have found ways to embrace, enjoy, and even incorporate extreme sports into their winter experiences.
  3. Historical accounts show that Londoners have both celebrated and complained about winters since ancient times, highlighting a mix of perspectives on the season.

Anna Gát: What to Read This Weekend #20

interintellect • 157 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. A study found that car seat laws saved children, but also reduced births due to limited car space.
  2. Maintain friendships as they might ebb with age and distance; a letter to a friend carries much ardor.
  3. The idea of the self-made man shifted to a capitalist tone in the 19th century, focusing on money and frugality.

#FromtheArchives: Billie Jean King's belligerence

Power Plays • 157 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🎾 Sports History
  1. Billie Jean King secured equal prize money for men and women at the U.S. Open by getting sponsorship.
  2. Power Plays website features a series called #FromtheArchives that looks at historical events in sports.
  3. The featured post includes newspaper clippings from the early '70s about Billie Jean King's impact on and off the tennis court.

Traffic: How America got Facebookified in the 2010s

theconnector • 157 implied HN points • 09 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. The book 'Traffic' explores how websites pandering to people's lowest instincts gained popularity in the 2010s.
  2. The narrative in 'Traffic' highlights the shift towards worshipping unique visitors and engagement metrics in the digital media landscape.
  3. Ben Smith's 'Traffic' discusses how chasing viral content and high engagement levels may have clouded editorial judgment in media.

An Ideological Reservoir Plagues the American Electorate

Study Marry Kill • 157 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Different public reactions to personal scandals of political figures highlight shifts in American electorate ideologies.
  2. Charisma and voter focus on fulfilling objectives can overshadow shocking behavior in political leaders.
  3. The comparison between Jimmy Carter and Donald Trump exemplifies an ideological divide impacting how politicians are perceived by the American public.