The hottest History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

ONE SLIDE: Working on the Summary Review Materials for Econ 135: History of Economic Growth: The Post-1870 MEG-Economy

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 61 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🚌 Education History
  1. Most economic activity in history happened after 1870. This shows how rapidly the economy can grow in a short time.
  2. Students should have a simple, useful summary of post-1870 economic growth. This will help them during exams and in their future understanding.
  3. The summary should include both political-economic and technical aspects. It's important to see how these areas work together in shaping the economy.

Nurse Buildings

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 159 implied HN points • 19 May 22
🌞 Climate & Environment History
  1. Nurse buildings, like the Colosseum, are structures where plants can thrive, thanks to their materials and existing cavities that hold seeds and moisture. This creates a unique environment for plant growth.
  2. The Colosseum has over 600 plant species recorded, showing how nature can reclaim man-made structures, even after efforts to remove them.
  3. Living walls in buildings can enhance urban spaces by providing natural beauty and habitat for plants, making cities greener and more inviting.

For Pete's Sake

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 179 implied HN points • 24 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Place names like Mount Rainier and Puget Sound come from explorers who wanted to honor their friends. These names have interesting stories connected to their origins, linking back to significant historical figures.
  2. Both Rainier and Puget have Huguenot heritage, tracing their family histories back to France. Their family stories reflect the impact of religious persecution in their homeland, which led them to new places.
  3. Indigenous names for these places have rich meanings based on a deep understanding of the land. Today, many people are reconsidering the significance of place names and their histories, aiming for more just and inclusive naming practices.
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All Skate

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 229 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The author reminisces about skating rinks in the early '80s and the pressure to look cool in front of others.
  2. The post invites readers to share their thoughts on various topics, from politics to pop culture, in the comments section.
  3. Paid subscribers have the opportunity to engage in discussions and express themselves on a range of subjects.

June 13, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. The Continental Army was formed in 1775 to fight against British oppression after the initial conflicts in Lexington and Concord. This marked a significant shift in the American fight for independence.
  2. General George Washington was appointed as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, balancing the need for a strong army with the fear of it becoming a tool for tyranny.
  3. Despite facing many hardships like lack of supplies and cold winters at Valley Forge, the army eventually succeeded in defeating the British, leading to the establishment of a nation where all men are seen as equal.

Dealing With The Russian Right

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 19 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics History
  1. Understanding Russian right-wing thinkers like Limonov and Dugin can help explain the mindset behind Putin's actions. This ideology combines fascist elements with a deep-rooted belief in Russia's historical and spiritual superiority.
  2. Putin's view of liberalism and the West is not merely political; it’s seen as a mystical struggle against a perceived enemy. This perspective shapes the narrative that justifies Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine.
  3. Engaging with these ideas is crucial, as they highlight a coherent worldview that challenges Western values. Recognizing this helps in forming a stronger response to the ideologies driving Russia's political strategies.

30 Jan 2024 – Windowless skyscrapers and random numbers

Outsider Art • 19 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History
  1. Some skyscrapers lack windows and were constructed in the 1960s-1970s to house telecommunications equipment, like 33 Thomas Street in New York City.
  2. Windowless skyscrapers were designed to aid in temperature control and protect against external threats, including withstanding a nuclear blast.
  3. The Brutalist design of windowless skyscrapers like 33 Thomas Street replaced earlier Art Deco telecommunications hubs, ushering in an age of mass surveillance.

June 18, 2025 (Wednesday)

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas learned they were free. This was the result of a long fight for freedom, not just a gift given to them.
  2. The celebration of Juneteenth evolved over the years, highlighting key events like the Thirteenth Amendment and the right to vote for Black men. Each year, it represented progress toward equality.
  3. Today, celebrations of Juneteenth are facing pushback and reductions. It's important to remember its history and significance to ensure that the ideals of freedom and equality are upheld.

54. Independence Day: Celebrating Freedom, Unity, and the American Spirit!

Spyderdoc Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Independence Day celebrates the brave fight for freedom and self-governance that started on July 4, 1776. It reminds us of the importance of liberty and democracy.
  2. The United States represents hope for many who seek better opportunities and a chance to achieve their dreams. Hard work and perseverance can lead to success in this great nation.
  3. Unity is our greatest strength, and through shared values and honest dialogue, we can work towards justice and equal opportunities for everyone.

The L.A. Fires Were Completely Preventable.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 48 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. The economic struggles of everyday Americans have been made worse by government and corporate actions that prioritize profit over people. Many feel trapped in a cycle of poverty and high expenses.
  2. There is a rising concern about historical injustices against Native American communities, with calls for more representation and acknowledgment of their struggles. Some believe that recent media portrayals are a way to distract from real issues.
  3. A revolution is seen as necessary by some to challenge the current systems that exploit and harm the public. There’s a belief that this moment could lead to significant change if people unite.

Five Links for December 2024

Five Links (and three graphs) by Auren Hoffman • 56 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
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  2. orith,y,rothio,roRoith,MIrgh,orno,orith,Inorthy,or,ro,ithir,hnorithrtormg,INNori,orHi,ororhitLot,MiMhihion,INnor,or,orotoyohroh,RndoiroRntgM,hitiRYroNti,$
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What We Talk About When We Talk About AI

Center for Veb Account Research Newsletter • 3 implied HN points • 12 Dec 25
🕹 Technology History
  1. AI is best understood as a set of decision‑making tools that 'satisfice' — they search for good‑enough solutions in complex models instead of finding perfect mathematical optima like operations research.
  2. AI tools expand a user or organization's administrative capacity by enabling new actions and complex modeling, but they can be brittle and depend heavily on training data and organizational process; the financial hype or stock valuations around AI are distinct from its practical usefulness.
  3. Intelligence and consciousness are not the same: systems can perform many cognitive tasks and even be 'general' in the sense of producing and using satisficing models without being conscious, so task performance alone doesn't imply subjective experience.

Bidets and butt wipes

The Rectangle • 141 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness History
  1. Toilet paper isn't the best option for cleaning, bidets and wipes are better.
  2. The use of toilet paper is linked to consumerism and capitalism.
  3. Switching to bidets can bring hygiene benefits and help the environment, but cultural habits and aversions may be obstacles.

Is It Possible That We Are Winning?

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 39 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History
  1. Novak Djokovic's victory at the Australian Open symbolizes a triumph over challenges, including the government's vaccination stance.
  2. There is a potential shift in the tide of public opinion, indicated by significant events like Novak's win and other global developments.
  3. The current state of global affairs reflects a complex battle where heroes and symbols play an important role in bringing hope and courage to the fight.

VFYW: 'What's With The Funi Business?'

The Weekly Dish • 43 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. This week features a funicular view, which is a unique twist on the usual window submissions. It shows how creative participants can get with their photos.
  2. Participants noticed various clues in the photo, like signage and architecture, to guess the location. It's fun how they piece together hints from the image.
  3. There was a lively discussion about whether certain types of views follow the contest rules or not. It highlights how engaged and enthusiastic the community is about the contest.

Why Aren't We In The '60s?

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 30 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. There was a belief that cultural and social upheavals, like those in the 1960s, would repeat in cycles. People hoped for a new wave of creativity and social change similar to that time.
  2. Recent movements for social justice seem less joyful and spontaneous than the vibrant protests of the 60s. Instead of celebrating freedom, they often feel controlling or focused on punishing others.
  3. Today’s culture is more about individual branding and status than true equality and uniqueness. This has created a conformity that feels disconnected from the eccentric and radical spirit of the past.

How to Make Pickles

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🍲 Food & Drink History
  1. Pickling is a process that uses an acid solution to preserve food and enhance its flavor.
  2. The process of pickling dates back to ancient times, showcasing the rich history behind this preservation technique.
  3. You can make quick and easy refrigerator pickles at home using vinegar, cucumbers, and simple ingredients.

Server (pseudoscience)

Skunk Ledger • 122 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🔬 Science History
  1. Belief in servers as a virtual realm similar to an operating system is unfounded and considered pseudo-computer science by recognized organizations.
  2. There is a profitable industry selling products claiming to enhance bots' server relationships, with buyers often deceived by scams.
  3. Proponents of server theories face skepticism, especially in scientific studies that show inconsistencies and lack of evidence to support their claims.

Revisiting 2024: Favorite Posts and Quotes

Neckar’s Notes • 48 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Reflecting on past experiences helps us see how much we've accomplished, even when we feel lost. It's important to keep moving forward despite challenges.
  2. Money is more than just currency; it influences our lives in deep ways. Understanding our feelings about money can lead to meaningful insights.
  3. Mentorship plays a key role in personal growth. Being open to learning and seeking guidance can help us achieve our goals.

Bubonic Plague in Seattle

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 99 implied HN points • 27 Oct 22
🔬 Science History
  1. Rats have been a part of Seattle since European settlers arrived, often arriving by ship. They are common due to Seattle's coastal location and trash management issues.
  2. In 1908, Seattle had an outbreak of bubonic plague linked to rats and their fleas. The city took serious measures to control the rat population to prevent further outbreaks.
  3. Today, Seattle is still known for having a lot of rats. Many people unknowingly create good homes for them by not managing overgrown plants like ivy.

Gift Economies

David Friedman’s Substack • 161 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Gift economies are systems of exchange based on reciprocity and social obligation without explicit contracts.
  2. Gift economies can take various forms, like providing services without monetary compensation but receiving status or recognition as a reward.
  3. In gift economies, transactions are based on gifts rather than explicit trades, creating a different dynamic of value exchange.

Another Gripe

Unpopular Front • 55 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Responding to negative reviews can seem petty, but sometimes it's necessary to clear up misunderstandings. It's important to address when someone's critique misses the point of your work.
  2. Understanding the tone and context of writing is crucial for meaningful critiques. Misinterpreting jokes or irony can lead to completely off-base reviews.
  3. Critics should be careful when making claims about an author's political views or arguments. Misreading can reveal more about the critic's biases than the author's actual stance.

The Terminator at 40: How Arnold Schwarzenegger Became an Icon

American Dreaming • 61 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. James Cameron had a tough start in filmmaking but turned a fever dream into one of the most iconic sci-fi movies ever, 'The Terminator.'
  2. Arnold Schwarzenegger faced doubters in Hollywood but proved his talent by bringing a unique charm and presence to the role of the Terminator.
  3. Despite initial fears from producers, 'The Terminator' became a huge success, showing that sometimes great ideas can break through the noise.

Walsh on the Judeo-Christian Tradition

Bet On It • 125 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality History
  1. In a six-hour course, George Walsh covers the history and ideas of Judaism and Christianity with erudition and humor.
  2. The Judeo-Christian tradition explores the commonalities, divergences, and origins of these influential religions.
  3. Despite controversies and purges in philosophical circles, George Walsh's lectures from 1989 continue to inspire awe and admiration.

Why Didn't Stanley Kubrick & Arthur C. Clarke Predict The iPad?

1517 Fund • 121 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🕹 Technology History
  1. Kubrick and Clarke came close to predicting the iPad in 2001: A Space Odyssey, but paper still played a big role in their vision, showing the challenge of imagining the shift to portable computers.
  2. The prediction of flat screens in 2001 was impressive considering they didn't exist at the time; RCA's pursuit of flat-panel technology likely influenced this foresight.
  3. Despite their brilliance, Kubrick and Clarke didn't fully predict the iPad because they were constrained by the prevalent mainframe computing environment and underestimated the advancements in miniaturization and portable computing.

HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: Origins of Fascism in the Modern Pace of Econo-Social Creative Destruction

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 123 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🚌 Education History
  1. In the past, social networks largely determined who you were, but in modern times, you have the power to choose your own social network and reinvent yourself.
  2. With the rise of modern economic growth after 1870, the pace of change accelerated, leading to the disappearance of many traditional social roles and the need for individuals to adapt and choose new paths.
  3. Loneliness and totalitarianism can arise from the disconnection and lack of common experience in modern societies, with anger and desperation fueling negative solidarity, leading to negative consequences.

Bogus Quotes

David Friedman’s Substack • 170 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Many quotes on the internet are bogus, misattributed to famous figures
  2. It's important to fact-check quotes before sharing them as authentic
  3. Some popular quotes are mistakenly attributed to historical figures, and it's crucial to verify sources

Disney at 99

Jon’s Newsletter • 99 implied HN points • 16 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Learning from failure is important. Walt Disney faced setbacks but used them to grow and succeed.
  2. Taking risks can lead to great rewards. Disney's gamble on making Snow White paid off hugely, even when it was a big financial risk.
  3. Embracing new technology helps companies stay relevant. Disney saw opportunities in TV and new tech, allowing it to thrive over the years.

5 Weekend Reads: 14 January 2024

Londonist: Time Machine • 19 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The post features 5 interesting historical London-themed reads from the past week.
  2. There's an invitation for informal drinks at a historic London pub on January 31, with no set agenda, just a chance to meet like-minded individuals.
  3. Readers can access the full post archives with a 7-day free trial of Londonist: Time Machine.

for those who come after us

The Lifeboat • 126 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Imagine how future generations will learn about us from our writings.
  2. Everything we write today could be a record of our civilization for those who come after us.
  3. Our descendants may find our stories, essays, and tweets fascinating and be grateful for the insight into who we were.

An Antiquarian Abecedary

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
📚 Literature History
  1. The post discusses unique, old English words and their origins, shedding light on their fascinating meanings.
  2. Many of the words presented originate from the sixteenth century, showcasing the richness of the English language during that period.
  3. The examples given range from terms relating to emotions and actions, to ones describing physical elements like frost or speech patterns.

VFYW: A Game Of Horse

The Weekly Dish • 14 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture History
  1. The contest involves solving clues to identify a tourist spot that has a mix of beauty and a troubling history. It's like a fun puzzle for everyone to figure out together.
  2. There are personal stories and recommendations shared by participants, adding a sense of community and encouragement among readers. This makes the experience more interactive and engaging.
  3. The discussions often highlight interesting facts about places and cultures, enriching the understanding of locations beyond just their tourist appeal. It's a learning journey wrapped in a game.

The IBM 701

detreville • 32 HN points • 13 Feb 23
🕹 Technology History
  1. The IBM 701 was IBM's first mass-produced computer in 1952.
  2. The architecture of the IBM 701 included binary number representation and vacuum tube logic circuitry.
  3. The IBM 701's success helped IBM dominate the computer market for decades.

Gli Umarelli di Spalato

Fisted by Foucault • 232 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture History
  1. Sometimes men enjoy watching construction sites and offering advice - known as Umarells.
  2. The term Umarell has evolved from a general older person to specifically older men at construction sites.
  3. In Italy, Umarells are respected and even celebrated for their presence at construction sites.