The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

The World Modernity Ended

Reactionary Feminist • 22 implied HN points • 14 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The author appreciates the freedom that comes from stepping away from social media, leading to more time for focused reading and thought.
  2. Books discussed explore how modernity has changed our relationship with nature and spirituality, questioning if the benefits of modern life are worth the losses we’ve experienced.
  3. There is a sense that modernity might be ending with the rise of digital communication, prompting a need to reflect on how we engage with technology and what we might reclaim from the past.

What Yellowstone gets wrong by trying to be too right

The Recovering Academic • 79 implied HN points • 20 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Yellowstone strives for truth, but its portrayal of Montana can be misleading and harmful.
  2. The show overlooks economic struggles and industrial history of Montana, focusing more on a romanticized narrative.
  3. Montana is a place of contradictions, where personal experiences and stories may not align with popular narratives like those portrayed in Yellowstone.
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Prism Lights

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 239 implied HN points • 26 May 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Prism lights were created after the Great Fire of 1889 in Seattle to bring light to underground spaces under sidewalks. They were designed to let natural light into these areas.
  2. There are thousands of prism lights in Seattle, especially in the Pioneer Square area, but many are damaged or replaced by hard materials. This shows how important it is to preserve these historical features.
  3. Prism lights can also be found in other cities like London and New York, dating back to the late 1800s. However, modern building owners often cover them up because it's cheaper than keeping them intact.

Genre Grapevine’s Smorgasbord of 2023 Leftovers

Genre Grapevine • 39 implied HN points • 17 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The article covers news and items from 2023 that were left out of previous columns, providing a quirky collection of interesting tidbits.
  2. There are various topics discussed, ranging from the success of STEM romance novels to the impact of YouTube on book discovery.
  3. Some highlights include insights on literary hope theory, a debunked art piece, and the role of science in countering moral panics.

Curator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Substack and Twitter are in a conflict. Twitter is blocking links from Substack, causing tensions between the two platforms.
  2. Timothy Snyder, a historian, makes important connections between history and current politics, emphasizing Ukraine's significance. He argues that a historian can and should engage with today's issues.
  3. There is a creativity overflow in art today, but many artists feel lost and unable to compete. As more art is created, the challenge is standing out and being recognized in a crowded market.

Hospitality is not conditional

Vittles • 264 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Hospitality should be unconditional, not based on performance or stereotypes.
  2. Using hospitality to humanize cultures, such as in food media, can perpetuate biases.
  3. True hospitality is reciprocal and should not be burdened with changing perceptions or neutralizing hate.

How sugaring feeds my soul

The Recovering Academic • 59 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
📚 Literature History
  1. Maple sugaring is not just a culinary tradition but a cultural practice that connects people to nature and history.
  2. The process of syruping serves as a way to mark the changing of seasons and fosters community through shared experiences like tapping trees with friends.
  3. Syruping holds the potential to create lasting memories and connections to a sense of place, offering a way to anchor personal identity in a rapidly changing world.

Ancient Runes and Rune Magic

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 39 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. Runes were letters used by ancient Germanic-speaking people to write words and sentences, not symbols for abstract concepts.
  2. The origins of runes are cryptically described in Norse mythology, but they bear resemblance to alphabets used for Latin and Greek languages at the time.
  3. Modern rune magic concepts are rooted in 16th-century occultism and may not align with how runes were used for magic in the pre-Christian Norse era.

The Sense of an Ending.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 77 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature History
  1. Our memories can differ from what actually happened. We often remember things differently than how we lived them.
  2. Time feels different depending on our emotions. A happy moment can make time fly, while a sad moment can make it crawl.
  3. As we age, we tend to view the past differently. We create stories about our lives that shape how we see ourselves and others.

Five books that impressed me this year

Klement on Investing • 6 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
📚 Literature History
  1. Geopolitical and security risks are real and urgent — Russia’s aggression, cyber attacks, and the danger of nuclear escalation mean countries need strong civil defence, resilient digital systems, and capable intelligence. Digital tools like Estonia’s e‑ID show how preparedness and technology can make a big difference.
  2. Understanding political history and terms matters because fascism is not the same as Nazism, and democratic rights can be eroded slowly through intimidation and legal changes. Vigilance and clear definition help people spot and resist authoritarian shifts.
  3. Clear, entertaining science writing can both teach and debunk myths — manned deep‑space travel and wormholes are far less practical than popular imagination suggests. We can learn far more safely and cheaply with probes and good physics.

Japan’s Vulnerability If There’s A New Recession

Japan Economy Watch • 179 implied HN points • 07 Jul 22
💼 Business History
  1. Japan's vulnerability to economic shocks like a new recession is high, historically showing outsized reactions that affect living standards and geopolitics.
  2. The Japanese economy takes bigger hits from global shocks compared to other rich countries, recovering more slowly and experiencing slower growth.
  3. Japan's economic vulnerability stems from imbalanced growth where GDP growth hasn't translated effectively into wider population benefits like wage growth, creating long-term instabilities.

The Gathering Storm

Diane Francis • 339 implied HN points • 15 Nov 21
🌍 World Politics History
  1. The fall of the Soviet Union happened 30 years ago and was a big deal in history. It influenced how countries interact today.
  2. Vladimir Putin sees the collapse of the Soviet Union as a major loss for Russia. He believes it affected Russia's power and position in the world.
  3. The USSR's defeat in Afghanistan played a significant role in its downfall. It caused chaos that led to the eventual break-up of the country.

The Ultimate Airman

The Radar • 59 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Robin Olds is considered one of the most iconic figures in American combat aviation, embodying the spirit of airpower.
  2. Olds' insightful letter to Major Schwalier highlights systemic issues within the Air Force, like loss of authority and leadership diluted by bureaucracy.
  3. Olds' legacy reminds us that a combination of intellectual reflection and warrior spirit is essential in military leadership, and many of the Air Force's issues have persisted over time.

2023 Recap: Novum Newsletter

Novum Newsletter • 224 implied HN points • 04 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Anton gained a significant increase in subscribers despite a lack of consistent publishing in 2023
  2. Initially planned a weekly series for 2023 but shifted back to long-form writing
  3. Focuses on historical essays with a narrative approach, aiming for 10,000 subscribers by 2024

The Steppe Function

Breaking Smart • 65 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📚 Literature History
  1. Venice created a unique society focused on maritime commerce, which was different from traditional agrarian empires. They developed systems of trade that worked more like a machine, allowing them to thrive without needing large territories.
  2. The understanding of history can change based on the lens we use. Instead of focusing on heroes and wars, thinking about Venice as a complex system helps reveal its true nature and success.
  3. The relationship between steppe nomads and horses was crucial for their way of life. Unlike sedentary societies, nomads had dynamic economies based on mobility, which allowed them to harness the potential of horses effectively.

Norse Cosmology Part I: The Nine Realms Are Wrong

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 39 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The traditional notion of 'nine realms of Norse mythology' is a common misunderstanding and not accurately represented in the original source material.
  2. The Old Norse phrase 'níu heimar' is mentioned in the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, but it does not necessarily translate to 'nine realms' as commonly interpreted.
  3. There is ambiguity and lack of clarity in the ancient texts regarding the concept of 'nine homes,' with suggestions that it might refer to underworld locations connected to Hel, the goddess of the dead.

July 3, 2025

Letters from an American • 29 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. America was founded on the idea that everyone should be treated equally. This was a big deal back then because many people believed that social status was fixed at birth.
  2. Over time, the definition of equality has expanded to include more people, like Black Americans, women, and other groups who were previously excluded.
  3. We are currently facing challenges that threaten this founding principle. It's important to remember the sacrifices made for equality and to stay committed to ensuring everyone is treated fairly.

The Last of Us: Part II

Adam's Legal Newsletter • 79 implied HN points • 17 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. In the 19th century, there were actively-serving appointees of 12 different presidents at two different times.
  2. Franklin Pierce played a significant role in the number of judges appointed and serving during his presidency.
  3. Senior judges can play a unique role in the judiciary system, contributing to the historical context of concurrently serving judges from different administrations.

31 well known businesses that launched during recessions.

Jon’s Newsletter • 139 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
💼 Business History
  1. Many successful companies were created during tough economic times. This shows that challenges can spark innovation and new ideas.
  2. Starting a business in a recession often means lower competition and the chance to fill gaps in the market. This can help new businesses stand out.
  3. The stories of these companies remind us that adversity can lead to creativity and growth, proving that tough times can produce great opportunities.

About that ISDA Pt 5: Section 1: Interpretation

The Jolly Contrarian • 19 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
💼 Business History
  1. Section 1 of the ISDA Master Agreement introduces key concepts and rules, important to understand but should not be tampered with.
  2. The hierarchy clause in Section 1(b) establishes a clear order for precedence of documents within the ISDA Master Agreement, preventing inconsistencies.
  3. The 'Single Agreement' concept in Section 1(c) lays the foundation for efficient capital management in master trading agreements, ensuring smooth termination and settlement of transactions.

REPOST: "Baby It's Cold Outside" is Good, So Bite Me and Happy Holidays

I Might Be Wrong • 4 implied HN points • 26 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The song’s lyrics reflect an aggressive, pressuring gender dynamic that is legitimately problematic and out of date.
  2. Despite its flaws, the song is a musical time capsule with catchy melodies and many classic renditions, so people can still enjoy its historical and artistic value.
  3. Decisions about canceling cultural works should be nuanced: condemn harmful aspects but weigh them against quality and context rather than discarding everything with flaws.

5 Weekend Reads: 3 December 2023

Londonist: Time Machine • 39 implied HN points • 03 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. This post features 5 London history links curated for paying supporters, with a focus on a cat theme for the week.
  2. One of the articles discussed 'MONEY SWITCHEROO', touching upon the topic of the Great Re-Coinage.
  3. Readers can opt for a 7-day free trial of Londonist: Time Machine to access the full post archives.

The Thundergod is Humanity's Hero

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 39 implied HN points • 03 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Ancient Germanic people believed Thor, the Thundergod, played a crucial role in protecting humanity from evil creatures like jotuns through artifacts like the Canterbury Charm and Kvinneby Amulet.
  2. Thor was invoked through magical incantations to heal people afflicted by ailments caused by supernatural beings, showcasing his role as a hero and protector.
  3. Pop-culture depictions of Norse gods and jotuns in shades of gray are contrary to historical beliefs, as Thor was seen as a mighty hero who safeguarded humanity against threats from evil creatures.

Cut-ups

Dada Drummer Almanach • 72 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎶 Music History
  1. Can was a unique rock band formed in 1968, made up of musicians with diverse backgrounds in classical music, jazz, and even astrology. They aimed to create spontaneous music that broke traditional boundaries.
  2. Their approach involved improvisation and experimentation, often pushing the limits of what rock music could be. This made their albums innovative and influential on many modern artists.
  3. One of the band's interesting practices was to leave their instruments recording in a room to capture unexpected sounds, showing their commitment to spontaneity and creativity in music.

Individual Lies

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 315 implied HN points • 16 Jun 23
📚 Literature History
  1. Small lies can compound into something greater over time.
  2. Orwell emphasized the importance of telling the truth, even when it is uncomfortable.
  3. Avoiding expedient shortcuts in writing helps maintain integrity and clarity in communication.

Lost iPhone videos, actually random music, the secret history of crosswords

Both Are True • 83 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Remembering lost iPhone videos can be a fun walk down memory lane, capturing moments from 2009 to 2012. It's like finding a treasure chest of forgotten memories.
  2. Discovering new music doesn't have to be hard; there are playlists that refresh daily to keep your tunes exciting. It's a great way to keep your listening experience fresh and interesting.
  3. Crosswords played a surprising role in American history, helping people during tough times. They aren't just games; they connect us and have meaning beyond just fun.

American War

KERFUFFLE • 31 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Movies about the Vietnam War focused on moral lessons and the personal struggles of soldiers. They showed the dark side of war and questioned the heroism often portrayed in earlier films.
  2. In contrast, the film _Warfare_ represents the Iraq War without trying to teach a lesson. It depicts soldiers as skilled professionals just trying to survive, reflecting a more cynical view of war.
  3. Modern audiences already understand the harsh realities of war, so they don't need to be convinced of its brutality. Instead, films now aim to show the truth without needing to persuade or moralize.

Sam Tanenhaus's Buckley; Marcel Ophuls; More on MacIntyre; DOGE's price in blood

Unpopular Front • 32 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Sam Tanenhaus's biography of William F. Buckley is considered a must-read. It offers a deep look at a key figure in American conservatism with engaging writing.
  2. Marcel Ophuls's documentary 'The Sorrow and the Pity' changed how France views its history during World War II. It reveals that many collaborated with the Nazis instead of resisting.
  3. A recent critique of MacIntyre's views argues that moral progress is possible through conversation and shared values, rather than just searching for a single goal in life.

Dinner at Eight

The Apéritif • 19 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Watching old movies can make you see more than just the story; it's a chance to peek into history and culture from a different time. It's like experiencing a museum in film form.
  2. Before strict rules in Hollywood, stories had more freedom to explore complex characters who weren't always good or bad. This allowed audiences to think for themselves about what they watched.
  3. No matter what century, people often deal with similar problems. Old films remind us that human experiences and concerns can be timeless.

The Philosophy of Murder Ballads

Going Awol • 10 HN points • 12 May 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Murder ballads create emotional and cognitive dissonance in listeners by pairing violent lyrics with upbeat music, prompting listeners to primarily focus on the music over the lyrics.
  2. Listeners can resolve the tension caused by murder ballads by either ignoring the lyrics and focusing on the music, vice versa, or by finding a way to make sense of the emotional clash between the two.
  3. Enjoying murder ballads in a detached manner - appreciating the music and storytelling without endorsing the violent acts portrayed - can be a way to engage with the genre ethically.

The light

The Strategy Toolkit • 251 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
🚌 Education History
  1. Geography is about the relationships between people and the land they live on.
  2. Maps are powerful tools used to convey power and influence.
  3. Mapmaking is influenced by subjective knowledge and various factors like politics and beliefs.

VFYW: A Tough Egg To Crack

The Weekly Dish • 20 implied HN points • 09 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The contest involved participants guessing locations based on photos of views. They had to analyze details like language and signs.
  2. Sleuths used creative clues from the images to narrow down countries, like noticing the word 'apartman' indicates it might be in a region where Slavic languages are spoken.
  3. Each week brings new challenges, making participants rely on knowledge from previous experiences to figure out the correct location.

Well Traveled Cement

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 219 implied HN points • 28 Apr 22
🔬 Science History
  1. Cement in Seattle comes from limestone that originated in the Pacific Ocean around 200 million years ago. This means the material in our buildings has a fascinating history.
  2. From the 1860s to 1920s, San Juan Island was a key source of lime for cement production in Washington. Workers made quicklime by heating limestone, which was then used to create mortar and cement.
  3. Seattle's cement boom kicked off after the Great Fire of 1889, leading to building codes that favored durable materials. So, the buildings we see today have stories dating back millions of years.

Some Good Things for Thanksgiving

Think Future • 39 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Avoid discussing controversial topics like future, religion, and government during Thanksgiving to keep interactions positive.
  2. Watch comforting videos with family, like historical recipes, ASMR, and instructional clips to enjoy the holiday spirit.
  3. Find joy and gratitude in the beauty of the world and the moments shared with friends and family during Thanksgiving.