The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

The journey is the whole point, the only point.

Pinch of Dirt • 157 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
🏝 Travel History
  1. The journey is the whole point and the only point of The Great Saunter event in Manhattan
  2. Traveling to Antarctica as a tourist may not be environmentally defensible, raising questions about ethics and moral values
  3. Plant hardiness zones are shifting northward, impacting the native vs introduced plant debate

Moving Places

Earthly Fortunes • 157 implied HN points • 15 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The concept of being at the center of the map is an old idea that dates back to before the 1650s, and it is not a reflection of reality.
  2. Different readers interpret and react to written work in unique ways, similar to how chefs create different dishes using the same recipe.
  3. Maps, both physical and metaphorical, play a significant role in how we perceive importance and authority, shaping our understanding of the world.

Is Bolsonaro responsible for the current state of affairs in Brazil?

O Observador de Corcyra • 157 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Blaming Bolsonaro for Brazil's current situation is a tempting narrative, but it doesn't withstand rigorous historical scrutiny.
  2. Each actor in history is responsible for their own actions, and voters are accountable for the consequences of their choices.
  3. The future of Brazil depends on the attitude of individuals and the political class, with opportunities for both prosperity and strengthening the legal system.
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Some Nazca Line Explanations

Outlandish Claims • 39 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The Nazca Lines in Peru are ancient drawings that are best appreciated from above, with intricate designs of humans and animals. The purpose behind creating these geoglyphs remains a mystery for modern humans.
  2. One interpretation suggests that walking the Nazca Lines was a journey to find oneself and become an adult in the community, showing the importance of empathy and understanding different perspectives.
  3. Another explanation proposes that the Nazca Lines were created to maintain a sense of unity and excellence among people, sparking a collective effort towards achieving a timeless and awe-inspiring legacy.

Croissants to Die For

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 570 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Anticipation of writing can occupy the mind, affecting productivity even outside actual writing times.
  2. Struggles with bureaucratic demands online highlight a sense of overwhelm and resistance towards digital tasks.
  3. Finding a balance in communication by being warm yet clear to avoid unnecessary follow-ups or overwhelm.

The Poisoned Lemon

Life and Letters • 39 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
📚 Literature History
  1. Jacobean playwrights focused heavily on violence in their works. They included gruesome details in their plots and often depicted murders, reflecting a fascination with horror rather than just sadness.
  2. Barnabe Barnes, a playwright, attempted poisoning in real life, which adds a dark twist to his violent plays. His own history of violence helped shape the themes in his writing.
  3. Many writers from the Renaissance period were involved in violent acts, whether as victims or perpetrators. This era was marked by brawls and rivalries, contributing to a more dangerous literary world compared to today.

PROCOMM PLUS for Windows

Computer Ads from the Past • 1024 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🕹 Technology History
  1. PROCOMM PLUS was a popular dial-up communications and terminal emulation software in the pre-World Wide Web era.
  2. Datastorm Technologies, Inc founded by Bruce Barkelew and Thomas Smith created PROCOMM PLUS.
  3. PROCOMM PLUS was known for its ease of use, compatibility with older systems, and reliable features according to reviews.

Small Spaces

The Map is Mostly Water • 547 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Culture and new ideas can often originate and flourish in smaller spaces rather than just big cities or metropolises.
  2. Success in creating innovation and technology may not always come from larger cities; smaller, more remote locations can foster creativity and growth.
  3. Remote places can produce rare and valuable cultural specimens, and it's important to be mindful of the advantages of small spaces in fostering innovation and culture.

John F. Nash Jr.'s Letter to J. Robert Oppenheimer (1957)

Cantor's Paradise • 205 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. John F. Nash Jr. was very bold in reaching out to famous scientists like Einstein and von Neumann. He wasn't afraid to discuss his ideas with them, even at a young age.
  2. Nash had limited formal education in physics but still engaged deeply with complex ideas. He wasn't shy about diving into new topics and sharing his thoughts.
  3. His interactions with these great minds show that having confidence and curiosity can lead to meaningful discussions, even with experts in the field.

#126 Design on the surface

Design Lobster • 279 implied HN points • 23 Jan 23
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. Designers should focus on creating intentional and smooth transitions on screens to enhance user experience.
  2. Incorporating ancient craft traditions into modern design can elevate the aesthetic and value of a product.
  3. Surfaces are more than what they seem; they can reveal deeper layers of meaning and should be designed thoughtfully.

Digging to China, not

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 219 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. There's a special monument in Seattle that shows the shortest route to its sister city, Galway, Ireland. It's made of granite and has a sloped side that points to the direct path between the two cities.
  2. If you dig a hole straight down in most parts of the U.S., you won't land in China. For example, if you dig from Seattle, you'll end up deep in the Indian Ocean.
  3. The distance you can see from a higher place, like a lighthouse, is important for navigation. You can predict how far you can see using simple math, which has helped sailors for a long time.

Pantheons, Panchronos

How the Hell • 184 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The Pantheon of the Past represents a nostalgic time when humans relied on the gods. It serves as a reminder of a simpler, carefree era.
  2. The Pantheon of the Present reflects a confusing time where humans struggle to define their identity and values without divine guidance.
  3. The Pantheon of the Future offers hope as it imagines a world alongside intelligent beings. It suggests that while the future may belong to new entities, the values we cherish could still live on.

The Noble Truth of the Model Minority

Bet On It • 543 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The concept of the model minority myth oversimplifies complex issues of race, class, and discrimination, potentially leading to misunderstandings and neglect of obstacles faced by minority groups
  2. The model minority myth can be a divisive tool, used to either maintain white supremacy or challenge it by showcasing counterexamples
  3. Critics argue that the model minority myth, despite being labeled a 'myth', may hold elements of truth as a socially harmful revelation rather than a complete falsehood

Links to Consider, 11/6/2024

In My Tribe • 258 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Artificial intelligence can help humans communicate better with computers, but using it to interact with fake people may not achieve much. We still need to be careful in how we approach these technologies.
  2. Conflicts usually have deeper issues behind them, such as need for respect or control. Understanding this can help resolve disputes more effectively.
  3. Being a 'good enough' parent is more about feeling confident and calm. It's okay to have a relaxed view of parenting rather than striving for perfection.

Meet William Godwin, the 18th-century philosopher who was right about everything

Outlandish Claims • 39 implied HN points • 21 Apr 24
📚 Literature History
  1. William Godwin was an 18th-century philosopher known for his influential political and moral philosophy, as well as his pioneering work in creating engaging fiction like the page-turner 'The Adventures of Caleb Williams'.
  2. Godwin's legacy includes his complicated relationships with his daughter Mary Shelley and his controversial views on topics like parenting, which influenced Mary Shelley's writing of 'Frankenstein'.
  3. Godwin's critiques of pseudosciences like phrenology and astronomy highlight his skepticism of simply accepting scientific claims, while emphasizing the enduring value of humanity and the importance of self-complacency.

Helpful Devil

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 219 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Devil's club is a spiny plant found in moist areas, and it has used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for various medicinal purposes.
  2. Bears play a significant role in spreading devil’s club seeds by consuming its berries, which helps maintain its growth in certain ecosystems.
  3. The names of plants like devil’s club reflect both their characteristics and the cultures that named them, showing how language and nature are closely connected.

Godspeed Burt Bacharach

Disaffected Newsletter • 359 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
🎶 Music History
  1. Burt Bacharach was a significant musician whose music will be remembered.
  2. His passing is felt deeply by fans and listeners who cherish his contributions.
  3. Music has the power to connect people, creating lasting memories and emotions.

Alice Evans on Acemoglu, et al

In My Tribe • 273 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Inclusive institutions are key for long-term economic success. This means that countries need both strong governments and engaged communities.
  2. Culture plays a big role in shaping institutions, and they're closely linked. This connection shows that neither controls the other; they influence each other.
  3. Censorship and ideological battles are significant issues today. Different groups try to control ideas and media, which can impact freedom and reform.

Charles Manson ate here (and I did too)

Situation Normal • 80 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The Munch Box is a historic burger joint in Chatsworth, California, known for its quirky name and connection to local lore, including Charles Manson.
  2. Despite rumors, there's no solid proof that Manson regularly ate there, but the idea has captured people's imaginations and inspired stories.
  3. The food at The Munch Box is decent, with popular items like the hickory burger and chili cheese fries, making it a fun spot to visit with a bit of history.

Why do we still shake hands?

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 23 implied HN points • 15 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Handshakes started as a way to show peace and trust, indicating that a person was not holding a weapon. It has ancient roots, dating back to at least the 9th century BC.
  2. Over time, the handshake has become a common social greeting in many cultures, particularly in the West.
  3. Despite concerns about hygiene, the handshake remains popular, as people are used to it and it signifies a friendly connection.

The Tower of Science

The Good Science Project • 66 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
🔬 Science History
  1. Alfred Loomis was a unique figure who blended science, finance, and military roles effectively. He showed that having scientists involved in decision-making can lead to faster and better outcomes for important projects.
  2. Loomis emphasized the importance of resources, talent, and minimal bureaucracy in scientific research. His lab in Tuxedo Park attracted many top scientists because it provided freedom and support for innovative work.
  3. It's crucial to have people who understand both science and policy. These 'translators' can help bridge gaps and make scientific advancements more efficient, just like Loomis did during World War II.

James Burnham’s managerialism eighty years later

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 558 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🚌 Education History
  1. James Burnham proposed the concept of 'managerialism' as a replacement for capitalism, where managers rule while capitalists take a passive role.
  2. Burnham's predictions were proven wrong, but his analysis of the shift towards managerialism and the role of state in the economy remains relevant for reflection.
  3. Despite Burnham's inaccuracies, his ideas on managerial revolution and the potential for alternative economic systems in the future can still offer valuable insights.

Recommendations

Nice Try • 139 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Bud Smith will start two weekly series on his newsletter: 'Reviews of My Life' on Tuesdays, which is free for all readers, and 'Good Luck' on Thursdays, which is a paid series about his memories and creative life.
  2. He discussed the musical rivalry between Brian Wilson and The Beatles, clarifying that Wilson was inspired to create 'Pet Sounds' after the American version of 'Rubber Soul'.
  3. After reading several Stephen King novels, he decided to take a break, feeling that they were entertaining but not challenging enough, and instead chose to read more classic literature like Flaubert's 'Sentimental Education'.

The Politics Of Destruction.

Trying to Understand the World • 8 implied HN points • 07 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Organizations naturally drift toward disorder if you don't put steady effort into them, so politics, militaries and public services need continuous training, leadership and maintenance to stay effective.
  2. Short-term careerism, managerial targets, legalistic controls and a wider cultural nihilism have eroded public ethos and institutional performance in the West, often actively accelerating that decay.
  3. If destruction and neglect continue, political vacuums will form and be filled by forces that may be dangerous, so the cure is long-term commitment: restore purpose, institutional integrity and sustained investment in people and practices.

An Unhinged History of American Publishing, Episode 3.2: The Knopf/Doubleday Publishing Group, or: Olympus Unbuttoned

How to Glow in the Dark • 179 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
📚 Literature History
  1. Developing characters in writing by giving them a want and a need makes them interesting and integral to the plot.
  2. Personal experiences and real-life inspirations can shape fictional character arcs and storylines.
  3. Having a clear vision and partnership can drive success, but challenges and expectations may not always align as planned.

Statement from a founder of the modern gay liberation movement, Fred Sargeant

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 03 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Fred Sargeant played a key role in the modern gay liberation movement. He helped push for more rights and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.
  2. His statement highlights the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by the community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for equal rights.
  3. Sargeant's perspective is valuable for understanding the history and evolution of LGBTQ+ activism. Learning from pioneers can inspire and guide future movements.

Scatterbrain: a letter from the North Pole

The Leftovers • 79 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The importance of storytelling and who gets to tell stories, questioning the media's focus on certain tragedies over others.
  2. Reflection on the never-ending process of writing, revising manuscripts, and the challenge of knowing when to stop.
  3. Critique of demanding representation in mainstream media and cinema, emphasizing the need to create cultural spaces that challenge the status quo.

Brilliant Simplicity

David Friedman’s Substack • 242 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🚌 Education History
  1. Brilliant individuals can contribute to knowledge in two main ways: through challenging, complex work and by highlighting simple ideas that others may overlook. Simple ideas often seem obvious once recognized.
  2. Examples like the median voter theorem and Coase's theories show how simple concepts can explain complex phenomena, such as election outcomes or the functioning of firms, making them essential in economics.
  3. Even in biology, like Darwin's theory of evolution, simple ideas can lead to significant insights, changing how we understand life and its development over time.

Dipco's Easy Reader

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. Dipco's Easy Reader was a product that seems to have little information available about it. It was likely a simple device meant to help users with their old computers.
  2. The price of $34 (in 2024 money) feels expensive for what appears to be just a lens and a bracket. It's unclear if it was worth the cost.
  3. No significant history or reviews are known about Dipco, suggesting it may have been a small operation that didn’t gain much traction.

Weapons and Words

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 194 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Two brothers used violence to silence freedom of expression, showing the extreme conflict between ideas and brutality. This tragic event highlights how important it is to protect free speech, even when it offends.
  2. The piece discusses how humor and irony can express deep truths, which can often be misunderstood. Satire allows us to examine serious subjects without resorting to violence.
  3. Philippe Lançon's experience after the attack shows the struggle to understand trauma through art and literature. It reminds us that even in the face of horror, we can find ways to make sense of our lives and the world around us.

One-Paragraph Book Reviews

Going Awol • 179 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
📚 Literature History
  1. One-paragraph book reviews can provide insightful summaries of multiple books in a concise format.
  2. Different authors and philosophers offer unique perspectives on value theory, justice systems, and historical analysis.
  3. Book reviews can offer recommendations, insights, and critical analysis to help readers make informed decisions about what to read next.

Post-Failure Activism

Activist Futurism • 139 implied HN points • 23 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Social movements are built on a New Tactic, Contagious Mood, and the Right Time - only the last one is out of activists' control.
  2. Unlike past activism focused on averting catastrophe, today's post-failure activism is after the failure has occurred - this impacts strategies and targets.
  3. New era activism will emphasize social mobilization, rely on cryptocurrencies and AI, and target meta-political issues like space exploration and redefining existence.