The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Paul Graham's error

Gray Mirror • 134 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. History is complex and cannot be easily understood through simple narratives. It often feels messy, like trying to find a solid footing in a pit of unclear meanings.
  2. Wokeness can be seen as a new and intense version of political correctness that emerged in the late 20th century. Understanding its origins helps to analyze how social norms shift over time.
  3. Different eras in history can look very different based on our perspective. It's important to recognize that each time period has its unique challenges and is subject to change, just like ideas about morality or justice.

The Closure of Mutual Fish Opens a Window into Jewish and Japanese Friendship

The Cholent • 98 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The closure of Mutual Fish shop symbolizes the end of a long history of Jewish and Japanese friendship in Seattle.
  2. During World War II, there were instances of Jewish families supporting their Japanese neighbors who were sent to internment camps.
  3. The relationships between the Jewish and Japanese communities in the seafood business led to deep connections and acts of kindness that are remembered even today.

Update Warning

Mister Slang • 98 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
📚 Literature History
  1. New update for Green's Dictionary of Slang scheduled on June 30.
  2. Research findings focused on sex-related slang from the British Raj era in India.
  3. Manual creation of update lists is still ongoing.
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Senator Abourezk was Vietnam Syndrome, and Vietnam Syndrome was good

Matthew's Notebook • 98 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Senator James Abourezk embodied the spirit of self-criticism and reform after the Vietnam War.
  2. The interconnectedness of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal played a significant role in shaping American society during that era.
  3. Abourezk's advocacy for Arab-American rights and his diplomatic efforts internationally left a lasting impact on American politics.

Book Club: New Focus and New Works

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 55 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
📚 Literature History
  1. Human history shows that most of our existence has been in tribes as hunter-gatherers. We have only recently started living in complex societies with rulers.
  2. This shift from tribe to state has taken thousands of years, and it raises questions about whether we needed to live under rulers at all. Could we have chosen a different path?
  3. The idea of freedom we often think of has roots in the critiques of European life by indigenous Americans, not just from Western thinkers in the Enlightenment.

Old ways to do new things

Austin Kleon • 479 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Looking into the past can spark new ideas for the present. It helps you see creative possibilities that you might not notice otherwise.
  2. Combining old concepts with new works can create unique pieces. It's about mixing the familiar with the fresh to inspire more creativity.
  3. There are many ways to approach creativity, like 'old ways to do new things' and 'new ways to do old things.' Each approach can be valuable depending on what you want to achieve.

How to Remember I

Cosmographia • 179 implied HN points • 18 Nov 22
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. The post discusses Budapest's history through memorials and monuments in Part I.
  2. The author reflects on the significance of Remembrance Day in honoring those who fought for their country.
  3. The content seems to be for paid subscribers only and prompts readers to subscribe to access it.

Huson Soft HuCAL

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. Hudson Soft was a Japanese company that started as an electronics store and later moved into game development.
  2. Hudson Soft created popular games like Bomberman, Adventure Island, and Bonk for various gaming systems.
  3. HuCAL, a product by Hudson Soft, was initially thought to be a word processor but was actually a spreadsheet used on Sega systems.

Ruins in Reverse

Kneeling Bus • 176 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Redbox kiosks were once popular but are now abandoned after the company's bankruptcy, marking a shift in media consumption. These kiosks symbolize a moment in time from when DVDs were still relevant.
  2. In today's disposable culture, we often ignore waste and discarded items, but abandoned Redbox kiosks visibly remind us of past failures and what we leave behind.
  3. Empty shopping spaces like dead malls and abandoned kiosks reflect a kind of 'creative destruction' in our environment. They serve as reminders of previous use and potential for future change.

New York's widening gyre

The Common Reader • 673 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. New York is a noisy city with constant sounds like sirens and traffic.
  2. The Guggenheim museum in New York was inspired by nature and the hawk circling above symbolized infinity.
  3. The atmosphere in New York is complex, with contrasts between different aspects of the city like Trump Tower and the homeless man writing in a book.

Ideology-Based Investigations, Myths, and Blind Spots in Academia and Society

Heterodox STEM • 163 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Ideology-Based Investigations (IBIs) are studies that lack scientific rigor and often rely on philosophical beliefs instead. These can create a false sense of credibility, leading to flawed conclusions.
  2. The oppressor-oppressed binary is a concept widely used in academia that can skew research and findings. This way of thinking has influenced many institutions and projects, often prioritizing ideology over factual analysis.
  3. Many thinkers and writers may criticize authoritarianism but fail to see the biases and pitfalls within their own ideological views. It's important for everyone to recognize these blind spots to promote a more truthful and open society.

P Is For Pyle

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Ernie Pyle was an important World War II correspondent who may not be widely known today. His reporting style brought the realities of war to life for many people.
  2. The author emphasizes that writing has value and should be compensated. It's a reminder that while information can be free, the effort of creating it deserves payment.
  3. The post is behind a paywall, but the author notes that it's not hard to access. This highlights the balance between sharing information and recognizing the work that goes into creating it.

The Last Drought in Africa

Pen>Sword • 159 implied HN points • 12 Dec 22
🎾 Sports History
  1. Morocco made history by becoming the first African nation to reach the World Cup semifinal, challenging the long-standing dominance of European teams.
  2. Football is interconnected with political and historical narratives, especially in the context of African nations competing against former colonial powers.
  3. The victory of Morocco symbolized unity and pride for the entire African continent, breaking the cycle of football drought and inspiring a sense of possibility and togetherness.

Zombie Buildings

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 339 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Zombie buildings are old structures that remain even after the original buildings are gone. They often have unique stories behind them.
  2. Some examples include columns from demolished churches and schools that have been repurposed or displayed. They serve as reminders of the past.
  3. These remnants show how buildings can have a lasting impact on a city, even if the buildings themselves are no longer standing.

A Ghost Story About Pies

Vittles • 159 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🍲 Food & Drink History
  1. Pimbletts bakery is a big part of the history and culture of St Helens, where pies have been loved for generations. It shows how food connects to the town's industrial past.
  2. Despite its closures and comebacks, the new Pimbletts is facing criticism for not tasting as good as the original. People feel like the history and quality of the pies are being lost.
  3. St Helens struggles with its identity after losing many factories and jobs. Young people see little hope for the future, feeling the town is stuck living in the past.

The Germanic Thunderweapon Part IV: The Axe Man

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 59 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. The linguistic relationship between the words for 'hammer' and 'stone' in Germanic languages is surprisingly close, suggesting an early association between concepts and tools like axes and hammers.
  2. The early Germanic thunder god may have carried an array of weapons, including axes, clubs, hammers, and thunderstones, which over time converged into the iconic image of Thor's hammer.
  3. Related mythologies from regions like Finland, the Baltic, and Slavic cultures show strong similarities to the Norse thunder god Thor, often wielding axes and other weapons, indicating possible shared traditions or exchanges of ideas over time.

Wednesday Weekly Wisdom #6

Weekly Wisdom • 119 implied HN points • 18 Jan 23
🚌 Education History
  1. The newsletter discussed various topics like technology, history, and skill development.
  2. Tai recommended engaging in activities like meditation and binaural beats to aid focus and productivity.
  3. He shared personal reflections on family, tradition, and the impermanence of moods.

Saturday Commentary and Review #148

Fisted by Foucault • 421 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The USA benefits from its geographical location, resources, and Monroe Doctrine in maintaining power in the Americas.
  2. US easing of Venezuela oil sanctions indicates strategic economic concerns and reliance on oil market dynamics.
  3. Tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over oil reserves highlight geopolitical complexities and potential regional conflicts.

Top Links 385 China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers don't want tariffs on Chinese EV & the Rangoon School

Chartbook • 329 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics History
  1. The post highlights various topics like China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers dislike tariffs on Chinese EVs, and the Rangoon School.
  2. Adam Tooze's Chartbook Newsletter includes interesting links, readings, and images.
  3. The featured portrait is of General Aung San, a significant Burmese politician and independence leader who was tragically assassinated before he could see Myanmar gain independence from British rule.

Timeless or Tired? A Critical Examination of Sowell’s ‘Social Justice Fallacies’

Karlstack • 351 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
📚 Literature History
  1. The book 'Social Justice Fallacies' by Thomas Sowell, although comprehensive and persuasive, lacks the fresh spark of originality and can feel repetitive in a world well-versed in equity vs. equality debates.
  2. Thomas Sowell's writing style in the book is simple, direct, and ideal for introducing high school students or older adults to cultural issues.
  3. Sowell's book weaves together a tapestry of anecdotes on various topics but is criticized for being disconnected from contemporary social justice dynamics and may not align with readers' expectations on addressing present-day issues.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 37

Why is this interesting? • 120 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Some popes in history had children, which is not something many people know. It's interesting to explore how this affects the image of the papacy.
  2. Research shows that playing Tetris might help prevent PTSD. This means a simple game could actually have a big impact on mental health.
  3. Mapping Middle Earth is a fun way to look at the geography of 'The Lord of the Rings.' It can help fans understand the story better.

Generational Cycles

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 10 May 24
🚌 Education History
  1. Generations influence world views and behaviors, shaping and being shaped by the times they live in.
  2. Generations have peer personalities based on the historical location relative to social moments, impacting civic engagement and values orientation.
  3. Generations go through phases like youth, rising adulthood, mature adulthood, and elderhood, each influenced by the social moments they experience, contributing to cyclical historical patterns.

It's Only Pumpkin Pie That's Burning

Outlandish Claims • 19 implied HN points • 10 May 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The average person today has more limbs than ever before, due to advancements in medical care and prosthetics.
  2. Historical parallels can show progress, even when history seems to repeat itself. Improvement can be seen in the present.
  3. It's important to celebrate both past progress and potential for future improvements, balancing gratitude with a focus on areas for growth.

Radio Shack TRS-80 Color Computers

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🕹 Technology History
  1. Radio Shack, founded in 1921, played a significant role in the early days of personal computers.
  2. The Radio Shack TRS-80 Color Computer, released in the late 1970s, was praised for its features and capabilities at an affordable price.
  3. Despite initial success, Radio Shack eventually faced decline, with the company filing for bankruptcy in 2015.

More Sugary Questions

The Heart Attack Diet • 79 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness History
  1. Sucrose combined with streptococcus mutans can damage teeth by creating plaque that leads to acid buildup.
  2. Most animals have enzymes that break down sucrose, indicating it's been a common part of diets for a long time.
  3. Questions remain about why fruit-eating animals don't get tooth decay, the impact of high-fructose corn syrup, and the historical evolution of sucrose consumption and dental health.

Qian Chengdan on Area Studies in China

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🚌 Education History
  1. China has a strict system for classifying academic disciplines which includes a recent addition of 'area studies.' This means universities can't create new fields without government approval, keeping academic studies organized but also rigid.
  2. Area studies is important because it combines different fields like politics, economics, and culture to understand specific countries or regions better. This helps in making informed government strategies and improving international relations.
  3. Despite the rise in area studies, there are challenges due to traditional academic boundaries. China is trying to support this field by officially recognizing interdisciplinary studies, which allows for more collaboration and talent development.

Grievance Training

Heterodox STEM • 370 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Grievance training in American schools is presenting a one-sided and divisive narrative about land appropriation and cultural genocide.
  2. Teachers are asserting that U.S. lands were stolen from Native Americans, pushing for reparations or land return without room for questioning.
  3. The article argues against collective guilt narratives, emphasizing the importance of individual accountability and due process.

Plus Post: Digitalk's Smalltalk/V

Computer Ads from the Past • 128 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. Using the right programming language is very important. Choosing the wrong one can lead to big problems.
  2. Smalltalk/V is a programming language that can help solve complex issues effectively.
  3. Learning and using Smalltalk/V can improve your coding skills and make your projects easier to manage.

Every Story is a Degrowth Story!

Breaking Smart • 101 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. There are three main forces affecting our world: internet nomads, artificial intelligence, and climate change. Each of these will impact our lives in different ways over the next 10 to 15 years.
  2. Internet nomads, like political groups using social media, are likely to peak first and create short-term chaos, but may not last long-term due to their inability to build stable systems.
  3. AI will evolve quickly as technology improves and becomes more common, which might lead to bigger changes in society, while climate change will pose significant challenges, affecting everyday life in profound ways.

The Mushroom Santa: The Fungal Folklore of Old St. Nick 🎅🎄

Tripsitter • 59 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The story of Santa Claus may have been inspired by the psychedelic Amanita muscaria mushrooms and the practices of Siberian shamans.
  2. There are compelling similarities between Santa and ancient Siberian shamanic traditions, such as the use of red and white attire, flying reindeer, and the chimney connection.
  3. The Christmas holiday has evolved over time, incorporating elements from different cultures and traditions like replacing and incorporating elements from earlier Roman holidays.

The tragic, forgotten story of Sita Valles

The Global Jigsaw • 119 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Goa has a rich history with a diverse cultural influence over thousands of years.
  2. The region was a hub for an eclectic diaspora, including freedom fighters, that spread across the globe.
  3. Sita Valles, a Goan-origin Angolan communist revolutionary, has a remarkable and forgotten story.

Links for February

By Reason Alone • 101 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
📚 Literature History
  1. PhD programs are not taking as long to finish as people think. Many students are completing their degrees faster than before.
  2. Curiosity is an important trait for learning and exploration. It helps us understand complex topics and makes us better listeners.
  3. Reading widely, especially foundational texts like the Bible or works by important figures like Shakespeare, can greatly enhance our understanding of literature and culture.

A Year in Books

ChinaTalk • 326 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
📚 Literature History
  1. Enjoyed using Audible and Voicedream app to power through a lot of text this year.
  2. Trended towards reading about war and technology rather than China books due to current events.
  3. Found 'The Social History of the Machine Gun' and 'Eye-Deep In Hell' insightful and impactful in understanding warfare.

UAE 25 Years Ago

Bet On It • 155 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🌐 International History
  1. The UAE has provided good economic opportunities to many, including foreign workers who appreciate living there, despite any restrictions.
  2. Visitors face strict security measures to enter the UAE, showing the government's serious approach to control drugs and other prohibited materials.
  3. There can be a big difference between public rules and private behaviors, like how people might act differently in private despite strict laws.

Human Habitrails

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 199 implied HN points • 12 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Seattle has a lot of tunnels that help move things like sewage and trains, with over 40 miles of tunnels under the city. These tunnels have been built since the 1880s and include some famous ones like the Lake City Trunk Sewer.
  2. Many pedestrian tunnels exist in Seattle, connecting different buildings and areas. Some of these tunnels are accessible and can help people navigate safely without going outside.
  3. There's a lot of talk about secret tunnels in Seattle, especially in Chinatown, but many of these stories are more myth than fact. However, there are still some interesting historical stories about tunnels used for transporting goods.

A Total and Complete Shutdown of... History

Holodoxa • 119 implied HN points • 23 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy History
  1. Francis Fukuyama's 'The End of History' thesis discusses the universalization of Western liberal democracy as the final form of human government.
  2. Fukuyama's concept of the 'Last Man' highlights the psychological quandary faced by individuals in advanced free-market democracies, emphasizing the need for societies to address human desires for recognition and meaning.
  3. Fukuyama argues that liberal democracies balance human impulses for freedom and equality, pointing out the importance of culture and economic development in shaping societies.