The hottest Political History Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

The Outer Borough Mind

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 89 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Behavior Political culture Political History Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump embodies the outer borough mindset, which contrasts with the Manhattan elite. Many people from Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx feel a sense of envy and resentment toward Manhattan.
  2. Trump's desire to break into Manhattan comes from his upbringing in a wealthy, but somewhat isolated, neighborhood. He sees Manhattan as a place of power that he can never fully belong to.
  3. The outer borough communities are changing politically, with many people feeling abandoned by traditional parties. Trump's message resonates with them, as they see him as a reflection of their struggles and ambitions.

Describing and Grading All Known Donald Trump Cabinet and Administration Picks

Proof • 72 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Administration Corruption Incompetence Political History
  1. The Trump administration was criticized for being one of the worst in U.S. history. Many people believe that the choices for cabinet positions were not just poor but intended to cause chaos.
  2. The author sees themselves as both a historian and educator, and they take grading and evaluation very seriously. They argue that based on their experience, the picks for Trump's Cabinet deserve very low marks.
  3. The author plans to keep updating the evaluation as new cabinet picks are made. This suggests that the situation could change as new appointments are announced.

Trump's William McKinley Fetish is a Real Curveball

I Might Be Wrong • 12 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Political Commentary Political Figures Political Economy
  1. Trump has shown an unusual admiration for President William McKinley, frequently mentioning him in speeches and calling him underrated. This is surprising because McKinley is not a common figure of praise among modern politicians.
  2. Trump believes that McKinley's tariffs significantly contributed to America's wealth, but many experts think this is a misunderstanding. Economic growth during that time was influenced by several factors, not just tariffs.
  3. McKinley's views on tariffs changed while he was in office, suggesting that his original ideas might not have been as set in stone as Trump claims. This highlights how historical interpretations can vary over time.

Proof of Cruelty: Donald Trump’s Decades of Violence

Proof • 59 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Elections Political Figures Political History Civil Rights
  1. The book highlights accusations of violence against Donald Trump over several decades. It looks into various incidents and claims made about him.
  2. It is part of a series that explores controversial aspects of Trump's actions and character. Each book focuses on different themes related to his behavior.
  3. Readers are advised to approach the content with caution due to its serious nature. The book deals with sensitive topics and includes detailed accounts.

The New Nobility: Putin and the State Security regime

kamilkazani • 432 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Political History Revolution
  1. Under Putin's regime, State Security has become the dominant institution, unlike in the USSR where the Party held supremacy.
  2. In the USSR, the KGB was overseen by the Party, with all KGB chiefs being political appointees.
  3. The Party held control over state institutions in the USSR, making it a model Party state.
  4. The Ottoman Empire's regime from 1908-1913 provides a historical precedent for the idea of a Party-led state.
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December 22, 2024

Letters from an American • 19 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
💾 History U.S. History Military History Political History Art history Cultural History
  1. George Washington willingly resigned his military power after the Revolutionary War. This showed his commitment to democracy and his belief that no one should hold too much power.
  2. Washington's resignation was a significant moment in American history, highlighting the importance of peaceful transitions of power. It set a strong example for future leaders.
  3. John Trumbull's painting of Washington's resignation now hangs in the U.S. Capitol as a reminder of this crucial decision in establishing a nation based on freedom and respect for governance.

December 6, 2024

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History War history Democracy Fascism Civil Rights
  1. Doris Miller showed incredible courage during the Pearl Harbor attack, stepping up to serve and protect others despite his lack of training in combat. He became a symbol of bravery and equality.
  2. The fight during World War II was not just against fascism but also for democracy and equality as stated in the Declaration of Independence. Many diverse groups fought together to defend these ideals.
  3. Today, there are concerns that democracy is once again under threat by leaders who aim to impose their will and suppress others. It's important to recognize the value of equality and stand against such actions.

Poland's Moral Leadership

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 26 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Political History Geopolitics
  1. Poland has shown strong leadership in Europe, especially in helping Ukraine against Russia. They have taken in millions of Ukrainian refugees and provided military aid.
  2. Germany and other major European countries have lagged in their response to Russian aggression, while Poland has been vocal and proactive. Poland has encouraged other nations to provide more support to Ukraine.
  3. Poland's commitment to helping Ukraine highlights a shift in moral leadership in Europe, moving from traditional powers to smaller nations like Poland and Ukraine.

November 22, 2024

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Presidency Political History Social movements Legislation
  1. President Kennedy's visit to Texas in 1963 was meant to unite the Democratic Party amidst tensions regarding civil rights. He faced strong opposition from white supremacists for supporting Black rights.
  2. The violent protests at the University of Mississippi highlighted the intense backlash against federal support for civil rights, which many equated with communism at the time.
  3. The tragic events of November 22, 1963, not only marked Kennedy's assassination but also revealed the personal pain of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who insisted on showing the world the brutality of the attack.

Monistic Idealism and Political Catastrophe

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 30 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Political parties Social Issues Political History
  1. The writer feels disappointed with the Democratic Party for not supporting the working class and believes that they lost an opportunity for a better direction under Bernie Sanders.
  2. Many voters are feeling frustrated and disconnected from political figures like Kamala Harris, who they see as scripted and lacking authenticity.
  3. On a deeper level, the writer discusses their beliefs in idealism and the idea that awareness is the foundation of reality, influenced by various spiritual and philosophical traditions.

"Civic Friendship": The Baseline Requirement for Democracy, & Incompatible with the Financial Flows Underpinning the Republican Ecology

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 484 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Partisan Politics Political History Republican party
  1. Democracies survive with civic friendship, treating each other as companions and helpers.
  2. Republicans have followed a path of arousing fear and scorn to win, breaking the civic bargain.
  3. Neoliberal policies following the Reagan Revolution failed, leading to societal and economic decline.

The 'October Surprise': Inside Carter's Grueling 1980 Iran Hostage Crisis

OLD GOATS with Jonathan Alter • 255 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
💾 History Political History Conspiracy Theories
  1. The 'October Surprise' in 1980 involved efforts by Ronald Reagan's campaign manager to delay the release of American hostages until after the election.
  2. Despite the alleged interference, the hostages were eventually negotiated for release by Jimmy Carter in late 1980 and early 1981.
  3. The October Surprise theories extended to later scandals like Iran-Contra and involved complex international dealings that were closely intertwined.

On Red-Pilling

Castalia • 279 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Power Civic Responsibility Political History Political Philosophy
  1. The 'red pill' concept represents a harsh truth about power structures. It shows how governments often act in their own interest, making it hard for everyday people to see what's really happening.
  2. People debate whether human behavior is shaped more by biology or environment. This affects how we understand social interactions and the so-called 'sexual marketplace.'
  3. There's a feeling that society is struggling between old values and modern realities. We need to recognize harsh truths but also focus on being the best versions of ourselves.

November 16, 2024

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Political History Civil Rights Federal Funding Public Opinion
  1. The Department of Education mainly collects statistics and provides funding, but it does not create school curriculums. It helps disadvantaged schools and oversees student loans.
  2. Many conservatives want to eliminate the Department of Education because they believe it promotes ideologies they oppose, especially around race and gender. This push is also linked to a broader movement against perceived government control over education.
  3. Education is seen as critical for democracy, meaning an educated public can better understand and evaluate government policies. Historical figures like Thomas Jefferson emphasized the importance of educating the masses to safeguard freedom.

US launched 251 military interventions since 1991, and 469 since 1798

Geopolitical Economy Report • 378 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Political History Geopolitics
  1. The US conducted 469 military interventions since 1798, with 251 occurring after 1991.
  2. The Congressional Research Service's report classifies only 11 US interventions as formal declarations of war out of the total 469.
  3. The data excludes covert actions, special operations, and domestic deployments, reflecting conservative estimates.

Eugene Debs ran for U.S. president from prison. Here's how that went.

What's Left • 176 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Socialism Presidential Campaigns Prison Reform Free speech Political History
  1. Eugene Debs ran for U.S. president from prison and got nearly a million votes.
  2. Debs' campaign embraced his prisoner status, parallel to Trump's situation, but their motives and supporters differed.
  3. Debs' imprisonment stemmed from anti-war rhetoric, highlighting free speech issues of the time.

November 10, 2024

Letters from an American • 19 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History War history International relations
  1. Armistice Day, later known as Veterans Day, began in 1918 to honor the end of World War I. It aimed to remember the sacrifices made by soldiers for peace.
  2. Despite the hope that World War I would be the 'war to end all wars', conflicts continued, leading to the establishment of global organizations like the United Nations to promote peace.
  3. The U.S. changed Armistice Day to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all veterans. The focus remains on remembering their sacrifices and working toward lasting peace.

Commentator

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 13 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Populism Technocracy Political History International relations
  1. Alexei Navalny's recent writings focus on the mistakes of past democratic reforms in Russia, especially how some liberals supported election fraud in the 1990s, which contributed to the rise of autocracy under Putin.
  2. David Brooks discusses the growing divide between populist democracy and elite technocracy, suggesting that Democrats risk becoming disconnected from regular people by relying too heavily on technocratic solutions.
  3. The recent coup in Niger reflects broader geopolitical shifts, as former colonial powers like France struggle in Africa, while Russia and China are stepping in to fill the void, leading to a complex competition for influence.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: A Kennedy, a Kook...a Candidate?!

Study Marry Kill • 157 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidential campaign Political History
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is known for being an heir of liberal icons and for his dangerous anti-vax stance.
  2. Kennedy's candidacy for president raises questions about his controversial past, including drug-related incidents and personal life choices.
  3. While an untraditional candidate for Democrats, Kennedy resonates with the modern Republican party due to his views.

Trump Winning a Second Non-consecutive Term Would Really Fuck My Whole Thing

I Might Be Wrong • 15 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political History Political parties Public Opinion
  1. If Trump wins a second non-consecutive term, it could change how we remember other presidents like Grover Cleveland. People might forget Cleveland's achievements and just focus on his unique non-consecutive presidency.
  2. Cleveland feels frustrated that people aren't discussing how a Trump victory would overshadow his legacy. He believes his historical significance is at risk, and that's a big deal for him.
  3. Many presidents are known for a specific thing, like Lincoln for the Civil War. Cleveland only wants to be remembered for his non-consecutive terms, and he’s worried that Trump could take that away from him.

The Question of January 6

Unpopular Front • 116 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Democracy Fascism Historical comparisons
  1. The events of January 6, 2021 were significant in American history and revealed Trumpism's fascist tendencies.
  2. The question of January 6 raises debates on democracy, legitimacy, and the future of the United States.
  3. Despite the failure of the events on January 6, they exposed a dangerous desire to subvert democratic norms and institutions.

In the Shallows Of The Deep State.

Trying to Understand the World • 5 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Structure Public Policy Political History Political culture
  1. The idea of a 'Deep State' has become popular as people try to explain political power hidden behind the scenes. It's used to describe unseen influences that control governments and decisions.
  2. Many people find comfort in believing that chaos has some hidden plan or control, rather than accepting that the world could be disorganized and unpredictable.
  3. In Western societies, trust in political leaders is low, leading people to think there might be secret groups managing things better than visible leaders, which can help make sense of troubling events.

Klu Klux Kountry

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 09 Sep 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Fascism Racism Republican party
  1. America has a complicated history that includes elements of racism and authoritarianism. This has been part of the country's identity since its founding and continues to influence politics today.
  2. The Republican Party has shifted away from its original values and now carries ideas similar to those of the Klu Klux Klan. This includes promoting a culture of discrimination and a longing for a past that favored their interests.
  3. There is a growing concern that democracy in America is under threat from factions that are using distorted political practices. Many believe that if these groups gain more power, they could dismantle important rights and freedoms.

Dushanbe - Boris Litvinov, 1895 & Alexey Nechaev, 1914

The Library of Alexandria Ultima • 6 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
💾 History Cultural History Political History Historical Figures
  1. Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, has a rich history and was known as Dyushambe and later Stalinabad. It developed in a region that was once part of the Emirate of Bukhara.
  2. The population of Dushanbe mainly consists of Tajiks, who speak an Iranian language. Unlike other Central Asian groups, their appearance can be more European.
  3. Bacha dancers are a notable cultural aspect of Dushanbe, where young boys dress as girls for performances. This tradition has historical roots in the region and continues today in some areas.

Sen. Blackburn (R-TN) used the "socialism" trope. It proves she doesn't know her history about Tennessee.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 239 implied HN points • 31 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Government programs Political criticism Public Policy
  1. Senator Blackburn claims Tennesseans don't want socialism, but many benefit from government programs like the Tennessee Valley Authority. This program has provided jobs and improved living standards in Tennessee.
  2. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), created during the New Deal, was seen as 'socialism' but has had a positive impact on the community for many years. It helped people get jobs and electricity.
  3. The history of programs like the TVA shows that what some label as 'socialism' can actually lead to progress and improve lives. It's important to consider the benefits of such programs.

Manifesto

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Political Discourse Political Identity Political Change
  1. Political beliefs are changing, and it's important to be open-minded about them. Instead of sticking to one party, think about issues individually and consider different viewpoints.
  2. Social media has changed how we engage in politics. It can create chaos in discussions, making it harder for leaders to communicate effectively.
  3. Many thinkers are feeling lost because the traditional liberal values are no longer being upheld. They want to revive respectful discourse and encourage diverse opinions in politics.

Cheney Chess

Diane Francis • 419 implied HN points • 10 May 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Party Politics Elections Political History Government Accountability
  1. Liz Cheney is fighting against the Trump-aligned members of her party, but some see her as just continuing her family's legacy of war-like policies. While she’s praised as brave, others accuse her of being an extreme right-wing politician.
  2. The previous Iraq War was based on falsehoods pushed by her father, Dick Cheney, which led to huge loss of life. This war still impacts the Middle East today, and many believe the decision makers should have faced serious consequences.
  3. Liz Cheney's stance against Trump may gain her support and sympathy from some voters, but it looks like a game of politics where one group of right-wing leaders is just being swapped out for another.

The Politics of a Great Unconformity

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 139 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Urban Issues Political History Geology Public Policy Social justice
  1. Seattle's Light Rail stations display a mix of very old and relatively new rocks, creating interesting geological features called unconformities.
  2. In 1989, a decision to use stone from South Africa led to a controversy concerning the ethics around apartheid, making local officials reconsider their choices.
  3. The fallout from the stone controversy resulted in a resignation at Metro, highlighting how political and ethical decisions can impact public projects.

Mini-Posts Collection 4 - Election Edition

Messy Progress • 11 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Democracy Political History Polarization
  1. Elections in the US have grown angrier over the years, with certain decades marked by extreme division and conflict. Historical elections show a pattern of rising tensions, especially in recent years.
  2. Politics often thrives on outrage because it drives donations and engagement. Politicians may take extreme stances to energize their base and keep the funding flowing, rather than aiming for broad consensus.
  3. Remote work could help bridge the social divide in America by allowing people to live in diverse areas while maintaining their jobs. This could foster better understanding and connection between different social and economic groups.

Once upon a time, today was important

Matt’s Five Points • 119 implied HN points • 04 Mar 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Founding Fathers Constitution Political History Legislative Process
  1. March 4th used to be a big day in American politics when new Congress members and the President would take office. This changed in 1933 with the 20th amendment, which set new start dates for their terms.
  2. The Founding Fathers made mistakes in planning the political calendar, leading to issues like 'lame duck' sessions where old lawmakers couldn't make strong decisions. This created problems during critical times in history.
  3. The 20th amendment fixed some of these issues, allowing Congress to start its terms earlier and better aligning the start of the President's term with the new Congress. This helped avoid confusion and improved government efficiency.

Spoilers alert—Bobby Knight dies—Mitch for Shreve

IMPORTANTVILLE • 19 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Endorsements Campaigning Political History
  1. Mitch Daniels breaks his 11-year political silence to endorse Jefferson Shreve for mayor of Indianapolis.
  2. Former President Donald Trump endorses Senator Mike Braun, impacting the Republican gubernatorial race in Indiana.
  3. Governor Eric Holcomb praises the legacy of coach Bob Knight, emphasizing his impact on Indiana basketball.

Are the Theosophical Roots of Kamala Being Intentionally Mishandled by Alt Media?

Rounding the Earth Newsletter • 8 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Social Engineering Identity politics Conspiracy Theories
  1. Theosophy is a complex belief system that influences various social and political movements. It's often overlooked in discussions about powerful organizations.
  2. Kamala Harris's background and political role may reflect a larger social engineering strategy. Some suggest that her mixed heritage is used for political gain.
  3. There are concerns about manipulation within media figures, like Candace Owens, and how they might steer public perception away from deeper issues like Theosophy.

How inequality reduction happened 80 years ago

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 03 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Inequality Economic Policy Political History Taxation Social Policy
  1. Inequality reduction 80 years ago was achieved through a combination of high marginal tax rates, pro-labor policies, and strong economic stimulus.
  2. The handling of economic crises by political elites and the choice of policies played a significant role in resolving the issues without internal conflict.
  3. The alignment of political parties and the evolution of party composition have an impact on the feasibility of implementing policies to address inequality and economic instability.

My notes for talking to reporters about Speakership elections

Matt’s Five Points • 39 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Political History
  1. The House can make its own rules for how it operates. They don't have to stick to past practices if a majority wants to change things.
  2. On the first day of Congress, they follow a specific order of events, starting with a prayer and then moving on to electing the Speaker.
  3. If the Speaker isn't elected on the first try, the process can continue with multiple votes, allowing members to propose other motions and ideas in the meantime.

Robert Horne, the 'New Discipline', and a Democratic Revolution

Something to Consider • 19 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
💾 History Political History Religious history Cultural History Social history Historical Figures
  1. Robert Horne was a controversial figure who argued a lot, yet he was very knowledgeable. His time as a pastor in Frankfort sparked a major change in how church authority was viewed.
  2. The conflict in the Frankfort congregation led to a significant shift where the church members gained power over their pastor. This change emphasized that the church community had a say in leadership decisions.
  3. This shift in church governance is seen as a step towards democratic practices. It influenced how churches functioned later and even laid groundwork for democracy in places like New England.

La politique de l’épuisement et l’épuisement de la politique.

Trying to Understand the World • 1 implied HN point • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political trends Political History Political culture Political Satire
  1. There are two main ways to interact with the past: one is to preserve and recreate it, while the other is to use it as inspiration to create something new. In modern society, the past is often exploited for political and financial gain.
  2. Today's politics often feels like a caricature, where real meaning and ideology are lost. Politicians focus more on getting attention rather than discussing significant issues, leading to extreme and superficial debates.
  3. Modern culture has become repetitive and disconnected from its roots, resulting in a shallow experience. This has affected how we create and appreciate art and culture, leading to a cycle of exhaustion and emptiness.

Book Review: The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt

Something to Consider • 19 implied HN points • 08 Feb 23
💾 History Ancient Civilizations Cultural Evolution Political History Historical Narratives
  1. The book mainly focuses on the history of Egypt's kings rather than the lives of everyday people. Most of what we know about ancient Egyptians comes from royal artifacts and structures, so there’s limited information about the general population.
  2. It’s a fun and easy read, full of fascinating facts that correct common misconceptions about Egyptian history. Readers learn a lot about important figures and events without feeling bogged down by overly complex details.
  3. The study highlights how and why states form and fall apart. Ancient Egypt's stability relied on agricultural wealth and a balance of power, while neglect or too much strength in leadership could lead to its eventual decline.

History Extra for November 3, 2024

Letters from an American • 1 implied HN point • 04 Nov 24
💾 History American history Civil Rights Political History
  1. Abraham Lincoln used math to challenge the idea of slavery. He argued that if one person can claim the right to enslave another, then the enslaved person can claim the same right to fight back.
  2. The Kansas-Nebraska Act and its impact were significant factors in the lead-up to the Civil War. This act showed how divided the nation was over the issue of slavery.
  3. Lincoln’s thoughts on slavery reflect a deeper moral question about rights and freedom. It sparked important conversations about who holds power and who should have rights.

election 2020 / election 2022 / election 2024 / election 2040 . . .

the rohn report • 19 implied HN points • 06 Nov 20
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political History Political trends Bipartisanship
  1. Political leadership shifts in government are cyclical, with power moving back and forth between different parties over time.
  2. Human behavior can be influenced by our genetic makeup and evolutionary history, suggesting a balance of good and bad elements in our nature.
  3. Encouraging and supporting each other could be a promising alternative to the divisive nature of politics, fostering a more positive and collaborative society.