The hottest Political History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

Clapping for Stalin

The Watch • 980 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Dictatorship Totalitarianism Political History Political culture
  1. People often feel pressured to show support, even if they don't really believe in it. This can lead to a situation where everyone claps just to fit in.
  2. Some individuals may hesitate to stop applauding because of fear of consequences, showing how group dynamics can create a sense of obligation.
  3. In extreme situations, a single person's choice can change the entire group’s behavior, like stopping applause, which can reveal who is truly independent and who is not.

The Right to Vote

Campaign Trails • 4426 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Rights Civil Rights Political History Activism Election Integrity
  1. Voting is really important, and it has a long history of struggle. Many people fought hard to secure the right to vote for everyone.
  2. Some activists even lost their lives while fighting for voting rights. This shows just how much they believed voting mattered.
  3. If voting wasn't important, people wouldn't have had to sacrifice so much to protect it. Everyone should remember the value of their vote.

Your Emotional Support Historian

Campaign Trails • 4844 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Predictions Polling Political History Campaigns
  1. Historians are trained to look back at events, not predict the future. They often find it tricky to offer reassurance during election seasons.
  2. Making confident predictions can lead to embarrassment, as history shows many past predictions were wrong. This causes historians to be cautious when discussing possible outcomes.
  3. Predictions about elections are often unreliable and should be taken with a grain of salt. The best approach is to focus on getting people to vote rather than getting caught up in the predictions.

Strange Bedfellows

Campaign Trails • 4625 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political strategy Political History Partisanship
  1. People from different political backgrounds can still agree on important issues, like protecting democracy. It's curious to see alliances form where you least expect them.
  2. Supporting a candidate like Kamala Harris doesn't mean changing beliefs or plans. It's more about attracting voters from all sides for a better chance at winning an election.
  3. Historically, reaching out to people from the opposing party has led to successful campaigns. Winning broad support is key to pushing forward important policies after elections.

The Monarch of Mar-a-Lago

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1089 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political parties Public Policy Political History
  1. Trump's power peaks before he takes office, showing how the moment of being sworn in changes the dynamics of his influence.
  2. The story of Rip Van Winkle highlights how dramatic changes can occur in society, even in just a couple of decades.
  3. Modern political identities can be confusing and overwhelming, as seen in Rip's struggle to understand new party affiliations.
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Note on the FBI

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 11481 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law enforcement Political History Public Policy Government Accountability Civil Rights
  1. The FBI has changed a lot over the years, especially after 9/11 and during Trump's presidency. Its focus has shifted from solving crimes to gathering information about people, sometimes even based on their beliefs.
  2. Historical patterns show that the FBI has often acted politically, targeting groups they consider threats. This raises concerns about their current role in monitoring American citizens.
  3. There's a call for the FBI to undergo a major overhaul. Some believe that new leadership, like Kash Patel, could help redirect the agency towards a more lawful mission.

Make America Gilded Again

Campaign Trails • 5064 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Campaign strategies Economic Policy Social movements Populism
  1. Many people support Trump's idea of making America great again, but it's mostly based on nostalgic feelings about the past. They often don't really specify what that 'great' time is.
  2. Trump's idea seems to relate to the 1890s, a time known for wealth for a few and poverty for many. Most people were struggling to get by while a small number of rich people thrived.
  3. The 1890s also had serious issues with racism and restrictions on people's rights. For many, that period was quite harsh, showing that Trump's vision might not be good for everyone.

Best of The Free Press: Don’t Lie

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2448 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political History Election Analysis Political narratives
  1. Honesty is crucial in journalism, and it helps build trust. People prefer straightforward reporting over being misled or given spin.
  2. There has been a dangerous trend where some journalists prioritize their agendas over truth. This shift has hurt the credibility of the media.
  3. Understanding and sticking to the truth matters now more than ever. Good journalism can counteract the lies and misinformation that spread in society.

Welcome to Vichy America

Unpopular Front • 293 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Elections Public Opinion Political History
  1. The current state of America is compared to a Vichy regime, which is partly fascist and reflects a sense of defeat and exhaustion in democracy.
  2. This regime attracts a mix of different groups who may hide their true intentions while claiming to act in the nation's best interest.
  3. People might soon regret their support for leaders like Trump, realizing that their political choices have long-term consequences.

Does Politics Turn on a Message? Or a Messenger?

Breaking the News • 1013 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency Elections Policy Political History Political Analysis
  1. Jimmy Carter once seemed fresh and vibrant to voters, but many today only see him as an elder statesman. It's a reminder of his early energy when he first became president.
  2. There are challenges for the Democrats in expanding their base and rethinking their policies. Ideas are already being discussed to help working-class people and strengthen the party.
  3. An important point is that mere policy might not be enough for the Democrats. They may need to consider a broader approach to connect with voters effectively.

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW ABOUT THE PRESIDENTS WE ELECT

Seymour Hersh • 73 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Presidency Political History Political Analysis
  1. Presidents can be surprising; it's hard to know if they will promote peace or conflict. Actions can differ from what they say during elections.
  2. Former presidents can influence current events, and new leaders may work together for peace despite their past differences.
  3. Historical examples show that popular figures may not always act in ways that align with their public personas. It's important to critically assess their actions.

The Modernity Machine

Breaking Smart • 112 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
💾 History Modernity Society Psychology Political History Cultural History
  1. Modernity may have started in the 13th century instead of the 16th, linked to global shifts in culture and politics rather than just Western advances.
  2. Technological changes affected societies worldwide, creating different modern experiences that aren't just Western but globally diverse.
  3. The relationships between classes, like monarchs and workers, have changed over centuries toward more equality, suggesting that trends towards decentralization and empowerment will continue.

Returning to Origins

Unpopular Front • 93 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Ideologies Totalitarianism Capitalism
  1. The idea of endless expansion is central to certain political and economic beliefs. It suggests that growth is the ultimate goal, often seen in capitalist thinking.
  2. Many thinkers, like Arendt, have been quoted and referenced without fully understanding their ideas. This results in misinterpretations of their work and less meaningful conversations about important issues.
  3. The current alliance between different societal groups, like tech-oligarchs and the mob, shows a shared mindset that prioritizes power and accumulation, often at the expense of ethical considerations.

Jimmy Carter, President and Citizen.

Breaking the News • 1603 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Leadership Elections Foreign Policy Public Opinion
  1. Jimmy Carter was very skilled at connecting with people from all walks of life. His ability to communicate and listen helped him build strong relationships during his presidency.
  2. Carter's foreign policy achievements are often seen in a better light than they originally appeared. He made significant contributions, even if they weren't always recognized at the time.
  3. The importance of storytelling in politics is crucial. Like Jimmy Carter, sharing our experiences and truths helps unite people and address common concerns for a better future.

Time to talk about the Panama Canal

Material World • 886 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History International relations Geopolitics National Security
  1. There are long-standing historical tensions regarding control of the Panama Canal. Many believe the U.S. should still control it because of its significant contributions to building it.
  2. The original treaties around the canal were heavily influenced by American power dynamics, resulting in Panama losing much of its sovereignty at the time.
  3. There's ongoing discussion about building a canal in Nicaragua instead. This could solve some current issues with the Panama Canal, like water shortages and size restrictions for ships.

After Assad

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1984 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Syria International relations Conflict resolution Political History
  1. Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria, marking a significant change in the Middle East. This could reshape alliances and power dynamics in the region.
  2. There's excitement about the potential for change, with people celebrating in the streets. Yet, there are concerns that the future may bring harsh rule or further conflict instead of a peaceful democracy.
  3. Western countries are preparing for various outcomes in Syria, including military actions to counter any threats that arise after Assad's departure.

The America of Yesterday

Yascha Mounk • 5095 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Civic engagement Public Opinion Political History Social movements
  1. America used to be a place where people felt hopeful about their country and its future. Now, many people seem more cynical and distrustful of public figures.
  2. In the past, popular culture embraced humor and self-awareness, allowing for discussions about important issues without taking everything too seriously. Today, there's a sense of censorship and a judgmental attitude towards differing opinions.
  3. Despite the current negativity, there's still hope for America. The country has a history of bouncing back from difficult times, and there's a chance that a cultural renewal could happen in the future.

"Jimmy Carter's Jewish Problem"

Michael Tracey • 102 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency Foreign Policy Diplomacy Political History Public Opinion
  1. Jimmy Carter faced backlash for his book 'Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid,' with critics accusing him of anti-Semitism without strong evidence from the book itself. Many of his statements seem more accepted today than they were in 2006.
  2. Carter's presidency was marked by efforts to achieve peace between Israel and Egypt, but many felt he didn't do enough for Palestinian self-determination during his time in office.
  3. After leaving office, Carter engaged in significant diplomatic work in the Israel-Palestine conflict, often acting as a mediator and seeking peace, which contrasted with some aspects of his presidency.

To be young, perchance to dream

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 951 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Cultural History Economic History Social movements Nationalism
  1. The historical view of the assassination in Sarajevo changed over time depending on political climates. Initially, it was seen as justified but later viewed negatively as political perspectives shifted.
  2. The Young Bosnia movement was driven by a mix of national unity desires and social injustices. Many members came from impoverished backgrounds and sought change, inspired by various revolutionary ideas.
  3. Literature and poetry significantly influenced the Young Bosnia activists. They saw themselves as heroes and believed in dramatic actions because they felt the political system was against them.

I Can’t Believe Calling Him Hitler Didn’t Work

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 4091 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Public Opinion Political History Campaign strategies
  1. People are surprised that calling someone 'Hitler' doesn't always change opinions. This shows that extreme labeling may not impact how others vote or think.
  2. Some fear that Americans might elect a controversial or criminal figure as president. This reflects concerns about the current political climate and choices.
  3. The situation highlights a deeper debate about political tactics and their effectiveness. Some tactics may backfire or become less relatable in real-life decision-making.

MAGA has Built a Castle of Lies, But it is Grounded on Two Truths

Phillips’s Newsletter • 170 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political corruption Political Influence Media Elections Political History
  1. Presidents in the US have been increasingly cashing in on their positions over the last 50 years. It's become normal for them to make money after leaving office.
  2. Both major political parties have shared a troubling trend where past presidents and their families make large sums of money, often without clear expertise.
  3. Trump's approach amplifies and exaggerates a long-standing issue in politics, not something entirely new. It's about making an existing problem much more visible and lucrative.

The Not-So-Marvelous Mrs. Merkel

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 830 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Political History European Politics
  1. Angela Merkel was once seen as a strong leader for Western democracy, especially during challenging times in 2016.
  2. Despite her efforts to do what she thought was right, Merkel's time in power is now viewed as having many mistakes.
  3. Her memoir reflects on her life and leadership, but she seems to avoid acknowledging her role in the issues that arose during her chancellorship.

The AI Story Will Roll On in Trump’s Second Term

Big Technology • 3502 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Political strategy Political History
  1. AI technology is becoming increasingly important and cannot be overlooked, especially with key figures in tech having connections to the political landscape. This means the AI story will remain a big topic as politics unfold.
  2. Trump's new presidency will likely influence AI regulations and policies, particularly around open-source AI and tariffs. This could impact major tech companies and their strategies moving forward.
  3. The evolution of generative AI has just begun, and it's becoming crucial for businesses. However, many AI startups are still struggling financially, which could shape the future of the industry.

Republicans Are Nazis & Democrats Are Their Enablers.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 30 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Political History Political Ideologies Corporate Influence
  1. There is a strong belief that both major political parties in the U.S. have a long history of supporting harmful ideologies and actions, particularly regarding issues connected to war and corporate interests.
  2. Concerns are raised about the influence of wealthy elites and corporations on American politics, suggesting that this has led to a loss of true democracy and an increase in fascistic practices.
  3. The text argues for a need to rethink and challenge the current political system in America, emphasizing the importance of using democratic principles to fight back against perceived oppression and inequality.

Don't Deify Jimmy Carter

The Chris Hedges Report • 493 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Foreign Policy Human Rights Domestic Policy
  1. Jimmy Carter did some good work after being president, like speaking out for human rights, but during his presidency, he made many poor decisions.
  2. He supported actions that led to problems in places like Iran, Nicaragua, and Afghanistan, impacting many lives negatively.
  3. While he cared about human rights, many of his actions as president showed a lack of understanding of international issues, leading to a complicated legacy.

The Manhattan Project through the eyes of Fermi

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 671 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Biographies
  1. The Manhattan Project was a huge scientific effort that led to the creation of the atomic bomb during World War II. It was a mix of exciting science and a race against time, shaped by the threat of fascism.
  2. Enrico Fermi, a key figure in this project, was a brilliant yet relatable scientist. He moved from Italy to the U.S. and played a major role in nuclear research while dealing with serious issues like escaping fascism.
  3. Fermi's work led to the first successful nuclear reactor in Chicago. He showed how smart and focused scientists could change the course of history, but his story also cautions us to think about the impact of scientific advancements.

The Jerk Store Called...

Unpopular Front • 146 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media Critique Public Opinion Civic engagement Political History
  1. The writer feels that the other person's critiques show a consistent pattern of viewing the world in terms of superficial character judgments. They argue this perspective is overly harsh and lacking depth.
  2. There is a belief that John’s January 6th piece was not his best work, and while he acknowledges that criticism is valid, he insists that its serious implications are often overlooked.
  3. The writer expresses disappointment in the response to January 6th, feeling there was a missed opportunity for a strong public defense of democracy that could have led to meaningful reforms.

My Social Journey Toward the Right

In My Tribe • 1245 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Social influence Economic Theory Political History
  1. Beliefs are influenced by the people we trust. For example, trusting certain professors or colleagues can shape your view on politics.
  2. Life experiences, like working in different environments, can also change your political stance. Being around business-minded people can lead you to adopt more right-leaning views.
  3. Understanding complex issues, such as economics and evolution, can lead to a more nuanced perspective on human behavior and society, making one appreciate different political ideologies.

Odds and Ends #45: Deliverism, blasphemy and selfies from space

Odds and Ends of History • 670 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Cultural History Historical Events Digital history
  1. There are interesting discussions happening around transport and how it might change in the future. A live event is planned to dive deeper into this topic with an expert.
  2. Digital transformation in government is a big challenge, but there are ways to make it work better. A new newsletter is launching to explore these issues and share helpful insights.
  3. Exploring new places can be fun, and getting travel tips for nerdy activities in New Zealand is a great way to prepare. Sharing suggestions can help make the trip more exciting.

The Economist on Mao

David Friedman’s Substack • 476 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Communism Totalitarianism Intellectual history
  1. Mao Zedong is often credited for significant changes in China, but his policies caused massive suffering, including a severe famine that killed millions. It's important to look at the real consequences of his leadership, not just the positive narratives.
  2. There was a strong bias among Western intellectuals towards communism, which led to overlooking the negative impacts of Mao's rule. This shows how personal beliefs can cloud judgment about political regimes.
  3. Even reputable publications like The Economist can misjudge historical figures due to a lack of direct information. It's crucial for media to be critical and accurate, especially concerning totalitarian states.

Trumpomuskovia

Thinking about... • 608 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Political History Civil Rights Governance
  1. History can show us patterns that help us understand our current problems. It's not about predicting the future, but recognizing familiar issues we can learn from.
  2. Four possible scenarios for America's future highlight risks like secession, increasing authoritarianism, and the influence of oligarchs. Each scenario shows how history might repeat itself in troubling ways.
  3. Inequality is a key theme in these scenarios. Any hope for improving America's situation will have to tackle issues of wealth and power differences in society.

Chartbook 328 An economics Nobel for Biden's neocon moment. On AJR's "Whig" philosophy of history.

Chartbook • 1473 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy International relations Political Economy Social justice Political History
  1. The recent Nobel Prize in economics was awarded to three economists who stressed the importance of societal institutions in achieving economic prosperity. Their work highlights how fairness and rights can drive economic growth.
  2. The Biden administration supports this view, aligning their economic strategies with the theories of these Nobel winners. They believe government policies can help bridge gaps like inequality and support innovation.
  3. The traditional ideas of free-market economics are becoming less popular, and the current trend leans towards more government intervention in the economy. This shift reflects a broader skepticism about past economic policies.

Fragile

benn.substack • 997 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Democracy Political History
  1. Voting in America seems meaningless as no single vote has ever made a difference in a presidential election. People understand this but still feel it's important to participate.
  2. Many vote out of a sense of duty or the desire to be part of something bigger, even if they know their individual vote might not matter.
  3. The belief that our vote is important is a hopeful idea we hold onto, and it’s this belief that encourages people to participate in democracy.

In latest effort to keep AfD out of government and save German democracy, ex-Stasi officer is appointed to a cabinet minister post in Thüringen

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 170 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Government Democracy Political History
  1. A new government in Thüringen called the 'blackberry coalition' was formed to keep the AfD party out of power. This coalition includes very different parties working together for a common goal.
  2. The appointment of Tilo Kummer, a former Stasi officer, as a cabinet minister is a notable change. This is the first time a person with such a background has held a government position in Germany.
  3. The political situation is tense, with many people raising concerns about the compromises made to prevent the AfD from ruling, even if it means working with parties they previously disagreed with.

On Enjoying Election Year Halloween

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 755 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political History Political culture Public Opinion
  1. Halloween is often overlooked during election years, and it's important to still enjoy it. Taking a break from serious politics can help people relax and have fun.
  2. Political discussions can sometimes be intense and stressful, but it's good to remember that elections are just one part of the bigger picture. People should engage in debates but not take everything so seriously.
  3. There's a noticeable audience demographic that engages with politicians differently, often balancing mainstream views with personal desires. This group can significantly influence future political trends.

It's Jean-Marie's World, We're Just Living In It

Unpopular Front • 56 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Nationalism Political Movements Political History
  1. Jean-Marie Le Pen's passing may seem like a relief, but his far-right ideas have become more mainstream through his daughter's leadership.
  2. Le Pen's style of politics, which focuses on populism and scapegoating immigrants, has influenced other global leaders, including Trump.
  3. The rise of national populism weakens traditional democratic values and promotes division based on race and nationality.

My Mormon Obsession

Castalia • 459 implied HN points • 03 Aug 24
💾 History American history Religious history Cultural Studies Political History Historical Narratives
  1. Nauvoo was a unique place in American history where Mormons created a theocratic community led by Joseph Smith. They had a different approach to politics and society compared to the individualistic American spirit.
  2. Despite facing hardships, the Mormons worked hard and grew in numbers, thanks in part to Joseph Smith's leadership and their strong community spirit. Nauvoo became a symbol of resilience for them.
  3. Joseph Smith's personal life was complex, involving multiple marriages and hidden affairs. He justified his actions through his religious beliefs, demonstrating a mix of idealism and ambition.

CROSSPOST: ARCHIVES: Franklin Delano Roosevelt at the 1936 New York State Democratic Convention

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 238 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Campaigns Political History Democratic Party Republican party Political Philosophy
  1. The Republican leaders are more focused on opposing actions than actually getting things done. They claim to support the same goals but resist the efforts to achieve them.
  2. History shows that during tough times, those in power must respond with real solutions. Neglecting issues can lead to greater unrest and challenges to government.
  3. Making promises without a clear plan can be dangerous. It’s important to face the reality of social issues instead of evading them, or we risk repeating past mistakes.

December 31, 2024

Letters from an American • 30 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Current Events Public Opinion Political History Civic engagement
  1. The best part of the year was meeting many people while traveling across the country. Connecting with others made the year feel special and meaningful.
  2. Gratitude is important, and the support from others is deeply appreciated. It highlights the value of community and shared experiences.
  3. The red skies at sunset can be seen as a sign of hope. Looking forward, it's good to stay positive and hopeful for the future.

Self Re-Introduction – 2024 Edition

Interconnected • 231 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Public Policy Political Analysis Political History
  1. The writer has changed careers multiple times, starting in politics and then moving to tech and investing. This shows that it's possible to reinvent yourself and follow new passions.
  2. The newsletter covers important topics where technology, business, and geopolitics meet. It's a space for learning about how these areas influence each other.
  3. Becoming a premium member of the newsletter provides extra benefits, like in-depth investment analysis and personalized discussions. This can help readers gain more insights and connect with the writer.