The hottest Political History Substack posts right now

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

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.

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.

Your favourite half-British president

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Elections Public Opinion Political History Diplomacy
  1. Donald Trump has a unique connection to Britain through his mother, making him the first president with a British parent in a long time. This connection could be beneficial for both countries.
  2. Trump has expressed admiration for British culture and history, which shows his sentimental side towards the UK. This could be a useful asset in building good diplomatic relations.
  3. His love for British sports, especially golf and football, highlights his connection to the culture. This shared interest could help strengthen ties between the US and the UK.

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.

My Father and the Trumps

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 36 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Elections Political Figures Party Dynamics Legislation
  1. Donald Trump mentioned a politician named Sy Halpern, who impacted his father's early career. It's interesting to see how past connections can shape present political figures.
  2. Halpern was part of a different kind of Republican party that focused on bipartisanship and social issues like civil rights. This shows how political identities can change over time.
  3. Donald Trump represents a link to a bygone era in New York City, where local politics involved personal connections and community-focused leaders. It's a reminder of how history shapes current events.
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War and Peace: horse power, progress and prosperity

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 240 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
💾 History Military History Cultural History Economic History Political History Social history
  1. Horses played a key role in the success of the Mongolian invasions. Genghis Khan's ability to quickly mobilize large numbers of horses allowed him to surprise and defeat his enemies.
  2. The Mongol strategy relied on their horses for speed and endurance, which made long-distance raids and rapid attacks possible. This mobility changed how wars were fought.
  3. Horseback riding also enabled nomadic societies to effectively gather and transport resources needed for war. It gave them an advantage over foot soldiers in battles.

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.

"Jimmy Carter's Jewish Problem"

Michael Tracey • 106 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.

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.

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.

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW ABOUT THE PRESIDENTS WE ELECT

Seymour Hersh • 83 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.

Makers of Modern Strategy with Hal Brands

ChinaTalk • 266 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
💾 History Military History Political History
  1. The _Makers of Modern Strategy_ series is crucial for understanding statecraft and warfare through history. It covers strategies from ancient times to modern conflicts, highlighting key thinkers and ideas.
  2. The 2023 edition includes unique essays on lesser-known figures like Tecumseh and contemporary issues like the Congo wars. These essays challenge traditional views and expand our understanding of strategy.
  3. Hal Brands emphasizes the role of history in shaping effective strategy. Studying past strategies helps inform current decisions and highlights the ongoing importance of strategic thinking in today's world.

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 Xenophobia
  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.

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.

January 26, 2025

Letters from an American • 28 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Public Policy Political Rhetoric Civil Rights
  1. Abraham Lincoln warned that the biggest threat to the U.S. comes from within, not from outside forces. He believed that if we let the rule of law slip away, we might end up destroying our own democracy.
  2. Lincoln emphasized the importance of respecting the law and said that while some laws may be bad, the overall structure of law is essential for a functioning society. He called for Americans to protect the rule of law as if it were a sacred duty.
  3. He also noted that success can lead to complacency. Ambitious individuals might seek fame through destruction instead of building, making it vital for everyone to use reason and moral judgment to maintain democracy.

In a Perfect World, Powell Would Not Be Fed Chairman and Trump Would Be President

Peter Navarro's Taking Back Trump's America • 2397 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Monetary Policy Political History Presidency Federal Reserve
  1. In a perfect world, Peter Navarro believes Jerome Powell wouldn't be the Fed Chairman and Trump would still be the President.
  2. Navarro discusses how Mnuchin convinced Trump to appoint Powell, who in turn negatively impacted the economy.
  3. Navarro criticizes Powell's policies and highlights the challenges of dealing with stagflation and the Federal Reserve's limitations.

Random Musings

Fisted by Foucault • 180 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Political Movements Political Ideologies Political Commentary
  1. Communism and fascism aren't real threats in the West today. The political landscape has changed so much that old labels don't fit anymore.
  2. People in the West still strongly value individual rights and liberalism, regardless of what they call their political beliefs. This makes extreme movements less likely to gain ground.
  3. European bureaucracy is stifling innovation and could lead to economic decline. There's a concern that Europe might stagnate if things don't change.

Inside the Catholic State

Wrong Side of History • 280 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History Art history Religious history Cultural Studies Political History Biography
  1. Caravaggio's life and art were heavily influenced by the religious tensions of his time, particularly the struggles between Catholicism, Protestantism, and Islam. This backdrop shaped his perspective and themes in his work.
  2. Milan during the Counter-Reformation was a strict Catholic state, ruled by figures like Carlo Borromeo, who enforced harsh religious laws. People faced severe punishments for crimes seen as against the faith.
  3. The Pope during this time, Pius IV, was known for his intolerance and refusal to consider differing opinions. His death led to violent celebrations, highlighting the public's discontent with oppressive rule.

How Closely Does the Classical Populism of the Tyrannoi Rhyme with Contemporary Populist "Demagoguery" Anyway?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 253 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Political History Elections Governance
  1. Populism has a history of connecting leaders with the people's needs. Unlike some modern populists, historical figures often focused on clear policy goals that aimed to help the public.
  2. Modern political movements sometimes rely more on fear and division rather than serving the public's needs. This shift can lead to leaders who promise protection without actual improvement in people's lives.
  3. The way people view historical figures like Andrew Jackson can change based on the context of their actions, showing that understanding history requires looking at both policies and motivations.

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 Social 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 Donald Trumped

Diane Francis • 839 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Judiciary Political History Governance
  1. Donald Trump was ordered to pay $355 million for lying to financial institutions, highlighting that even powerful people can face consequences for their actions.
  2. New York's strict financial laws help maintain its reputation as a leading financial center, protecting investors from fraud.
  3. Trump compared his legal troubles to the struggles faced by political prisoners, while there are concerns he may be under foreign influence regarding his debts.

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.

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.

Alexei Navalny RIP

Castalia • 759 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Authoritarianism Civil Rights International relations Political History
  1. Alexei Navalny was a brave opposition leader in Russia who stood up against Putin's regime. Despite facing imprisonment and even being poisoned, he returned to Russia to show his strength and courage.
  2. He represented a connection to a time of hope in the 1990s when many Russians wanted change. His death marks a significant point in the decline of political dissent in Russia.
  3. Navalny believed in the power of truth and courage over fear. He thought that standing up for what is right was worth the risk, even if it seemed like nothing would change.

Alexander Hamilton Did too Believe in "Industrial Policy"!!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 176 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Political History Government Industrial Policy Federalism
  1. Alexander Hamilton supported the idea of using government policies to help grow local industries. He believed that controlling foreign competition can actually help American goods become cheaper over time.
  2. Hamilton thought that while tariffs might raise prices temporarily, they could lead to long-term benefits for domestic manufacturers and even help farmers by making goods more affordable.
  3. Critics of Hamilton miss the point that he advocated for state involvement in the economy to promote national growth, which is a form of planned economic strategy.

The Counterrevolution

KERFUFFLE • 155 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Activism
  1. The American left has weakened significantly over the years, losing its voice and influence in politics. This has left many people without a true leftist movement to turn to.
  2. The rise of the so-called 'woke left' focused more on identity issues rather than traditional class politics, which diluted the message of the left and was supported by the Democratic Party.
  3. The terms 'left' and 'right' in politics no longer make sense and can confuse discussions about current issues. There's a call for new ways to think about politics beyond these outdated labels.

Jimmy Carter, Neoliberal; Lind Agonistes; Heterodox Economists; The Order

Unpopular Front • 32 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Economic Policy Neoliberalism Populism Social movements
  1. Jimmy Carter's presidency is often viewed as a failure, but his policies led to a shift towards neoliberalism in the Democratic Party.
  2. There is a troubling connection between South African apartheid and modern American capitalism, highlighted by the views of tech leaders like Peter Thiel.
  3. Recent trends in the tech world show a dangerous ideology that suggests certain people should always be in power, echoing old systems of inequality.

Blinken Drags Us Back To The Forestal Suicide Scandal & The US First Strike Gamble.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 36 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy Nuclear policy Political History Government Officials
  1. Air Force General Curtis LeMay pushed for the U.S. to use nuclear weapons first against the Soviet Union, creating a lot of tension during the Cold War. He convinced others that the Soviets were planning to attack, even though they were mostly focused on defense.
  2. The current U.S. foreign policy seems to be repeating past mistakes by spreading fear of a Russian nuclear first strike, ignoring that Russia is moving toward missile technology that could make traditional nuclear weapons less relevant.
  3. Secretary of State Blinken appears to be continuing this dangerous strategy, which many believe is just a way to maintain Cold War-era tactics instead of seeking real solutions to today’s conflicts.

It's not easy from here

Gray Mirror • 112 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Structure Legislation Constitutional Law Political History
  1. Focusing on the wrong targets can lead to wasted effort. It's important to identify and direct energy towards the right problems instead of getting distracted by less significant issues.
  2. Political systems can change, but restoring the past often ignores the unique challenges of today. Acknowledging how history shapes our current situation is key to moving forward.
  3. There's a need to rethink how power is used in government. Rather than trying to go back to what worked before, it might be better to find new solutions that fit our current realities.

Eternal 1942

Castalia • 479 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
💾 History World War II Military History Political History Cultural History Geopolitics
  1. The research and writing process can feel like stepping into another time, as the author immersed himself in 1942 to better understand that historical period. This experience helped him connect with his characters and the events they were navigating.
  2. In 1942, many believed that fascism showed efficiency and strength compared to liberal democracies, but by the end of the year, perspectives shifted as victories by the Allies began to change the tide of World War II.
  3. The legacy of understanding Nazism as a unique evil has shaped modern politics, leading to a focus on identifying and combatting extremism, something that continues to influence current political discussions.

'The Most Disgraceful Campaign in American History'

Nonzero Newsletter • 225 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Campaigns Media influence Public Discourse
  1. The time machine feature looks back at past conversations to provide insight into American culture and politics. It's a fun way to connect the past with today's issues.
  2. The discussion highlights how ideas of what is 'disgraceful' in politics have changed over time. What was seen as bad behavior in the past might not seem as shocking now.
  3. McCain's 2008 campaign faced backlash for misleading ads, showing how important honesty is in politics. The criticism he faced then is part of why we expect more transparency from politicians today.

THE SCENE OF THE CRIME

Seymour Hersh • 54 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
💾 History War history Vietnam War Journalism Political History
  1. The My Lai massacre during the Vietnam War involved the brutal killing of civilians, including women and children, by American soldiers who believed they were following orders. This horrific event revealed the dark side of war and highlighted how soldiers could become desensitized to violence.
  2. Many veterans left Vietnam with deep psychological scars and guilt, questioning their actions and the morality of the war. Some, like Paul Meadlo, openly expressed remorse for their involvement in the killings.
  3. The aftermath of My Lai not only fueled anti-war sentiment in the U.S. but also led to a greater awareness of the need for accountability in military actions. It served as a reminder of the atrocities committed during war and the importance of protecting civilians.

TLP's 2024 Swing-State Project: Pennsylvania (Part One)

The Liberal Patriot • 589 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Political History Geography
  1. Pennsylvania is a crucial swing state that has been competitive in recent elections, with voter preferences changing over time.
  2. The state's demographic diversity and political landscape make it a microcosm of the country, with key areas like Philadelphia suburbs playing a significant role in elections.
  3. Voter registration trends show a narrowing gap between Democrats and Republicans in Pennsylvania, with party affiliations shifting in recent years.

Is America about to fall? Or flourish?

The Novelleist • 412 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Humanism Democracy Political History Economic issues
  1. Humanism focuses on logic and making gradual improvements for society, aiming for better jobs and life for everyone. It's about working together and using reason to solve problems when times are stable.
  2. Anti-humanism arises from feelings of personal instability and distrust in political systems. It leads people to prioritize their own needs over the community and seek radical changes when they feel ignored or threatened.
  3. Currently, society is leaning towards anti-humanism due to real grievances, and while logic has helped progress in the past, emotional responses are becoming more common as people seek immediate solutions.

The great RFK Jr. bamboozle of 2024: a brief history

Michael Tracey • 164 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Campaigns Public Opinion Political History
  1. RFK Jr. initially launched an Independent campaign to challenge the two-party system, gaining significant public support. But he later endorsed Trump, which confused many supporters who thought he was against that very system.
  2. His withdrawal from the race and endorsement of Trump hurt the minor parties that had backed him, with some feeling they had been misled. They believed he would empower Third Parties, but his actions ended up weakening them.
  3. Despite claiming to stand against the political establishment, RFK Jr.'s actions seemed to reinforce the existing power dynamics instead. Many critics feel he used his famous name for personal gain rather than genuine political change.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED for 2024-11-02 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 115 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Economics Public Opinion Political History
  1. Global warming is a serious threat, especially for poorer countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa that lack resources to adapt.
  2. Decarbonization efforts in the Global North have been noticeable over the past generation, helping to address climate change.
  3. Passive investing might seem easy, but it actually leads to big market shifts as people try to track indexes, which can complicate real price discovery.

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.

Who agrees with Liz Cheney?

Michael Tracey • 120 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Dynamics Campaign strategies Political History
  1. Kamala Harris and Liz Cheney are aligning their political views, suggesting they share common ground on some issues, particularly regarding foreign policy. This connection raises questions about their past political differences.
  2. Liz Cheney's history shows that she was supportive of many Trump policies while in Congress, especially regarding foreign affairs. This past support contrasts sharply with her current criticism of him.
  3. Despite their disagreements, Trump and Cheney may both favor keeping a strong military presence in Afghanistan, indicating a surprising overlap in their views during the 2024 campaign.

The Most Important Election of My Lifetime…Again

Skeptic • 101 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Divides Political Rhetoric Political History Political Commentary
  1. Many people think each election is the most important one ever. But in reality, life goes on regardless of who wins, and drastic changes often don't happen.
  2. Both sides of the political spectrum have made wild claims about leaving the country if their candidate loses. Most of these statements are just empty threats and not meant to be taken seriously.
  3. It’s important to remember that people from the other party aren't enemies; they are fellow Americans. We can disagree but still work together for a better future.