I admire that Heather will truly “take care“ of her physical and emotional needs even in the middle of such a turbulent time. Her writing and her interviews are teaching me many lessons about American history past and present. She is not alarmed by Trump and his antics, She simply writes the history as she sees it.
Professor has studied the history of America to save America for this time of crisis. She has been prepared to lead the war against the insurrection. This is her destiny.
Without people like Heather who carefully observe and accurately describe, we'd be lost. What she does is necessary, but not sufficient. We also need scientists. By "scientist" I mean people who derive and test hypotheses (testable conclusions).
I'm a scientist. The following is a hypothesis about how to cure the authoritarian disease that, if you're reading this, and if you're a scientist, you'll want to test:
You are right this HCR is necessary and important for us, but not sufficient. Awareness is key and that is what she is trying for. Then the fight against despair and for hope. As Newsom says- action now.
in 2027 Newsom will be 60..just about right. He *seems* reluctant- which is good. Some say he is quirky. Californians voted for him.I trust that he's learning. Has had a college education, but not higher. Okay. We need to focus on him as he acts now. He is certainly saying the right things and with conviction. We desperately need forceful leadership in the right direction... not perfection. The insurrectionists are lawless and criminal. Newsom has to be careful. If he is a threat, they will go after him... already he is a threat. He has the right tactic to get under Trump's skin and challenge Trump's need for dominance. Game on (I hope) and time will tell, I agree.
The Democrats are increasingly disappointed in their leadership save for a few fighters like Schiff and Raskin and a few others. Their low ratings I believe are not about their policies but *because they don't fight fire with fire*. Marc Elias is saying in effect, bring a missile to a gun fight. Democrats (Independents-more moving that way, and even Republicans of old) want to meet the moment and fight back.
Don't rule out JB Pritzker. I might be alone in this, but while I am very much amused by Newsome turning the table on Trump, and I appreciate his fight against redistricting, you can like what someone does but not want them as POTUS.
I admit to being both old and a constituent of Pritzker. To me, he has undefinable characteristics that seem more "presidential" but I do realize times and society are changing. In the long run, what matters is POLICIES, not media hits. In any case, as Heather has said, it's a bit early to be placing our bets.
Don't forget Jeb Bush, who was POTUS number...........uh, NOPE, didn't happen to that front runner!
Thank you for saying that, Hiro. If you don't mind, and assuming you haven't already done so, I'll ask that you subscribe to my (forever fee-free) newsletter and contribute to my efforts by using the comment field to make comments and ask questions.
I agree, and she's great at it, but we need a scientist to understand the cause and cure of the authoritarian disease. I'm not saying that's what she should do, I'm just saying that is not what she does.
I think we're all natural-born scientists, but too many have been taught to avoid doing science.
Taking care of "me" is not the highest calling, but it is the highest priority. If we don't take care of ourselves, we can't help anyone, including ourselves.
We all have to take care of what we are now experiencing as trauma. The only way to get it out of our bodies is to dance, sing, shake, or a nice long walk on the beach, jumping in the waves. We are now being emotionally and for some, physically abused by our government on a consistent basis.
So true. Many of us are suffering that trauma of worry without even realizing it. My mind has my happy dogs and cats and hens, my piano, my fiber work. But my body is too painful and rickety for someone in her early 70s. I think the stress of this hour has a lot to do with that.
My Father sent this to me in a letter while I was still in college. He had an uncanny
way of being aware of my activities no matter how far I roamed! I memorized it as a beautiful cautionary reminder! Thank You Professor for, reminding me still.
Sleep is an amazing restorative. We all need to heed the advice of Heather's friend and not try to burn the candle at both ends. As a very wise slightly older teenager said to me several lifetimes ago when I was a slightly younger teenager, we can't always be going at 100%. Hard to remember sometimes, hard, sometimes, to put into practice, but essential if we're going to be at our best as much of the time as we'd like.
I think it's notable that as a historian – not a journalist nor a network personality – Heather wouldn't typically be first in line to interview the chief executive of the fourth largest economy on the planet. That she scored this interview almost immediately after Newsom's momentous announcement speaks to Heather's increasing gravitas in the current-events universe.
It is also a commentary on the diminishing value of corporate media and Newsom's recognition of the trend. Other Democratic leaders should catch up.
Indeed you are entirely deserving of a respite. By chance Joyce Vance also posted that she was taking a night off and in my appreciation note to her I also noted how indebted to you are all us who cherish the ideals which were always our aspirational goals. Here is a copy of the note to Joyce: If there is anyone more deserving of a night’s rest I can’t imagine who that could be. Your ability to explain complex legal issues in clear lucid English for the vast majority of your fellow Americans who are not lawyers is unparalleled. You and your soul mate Heather Cox Richardson who puts our current misery into historical context in a way that is probably new to the vast majority of her readers (certainly for me) are like life preservers for all of us who are hoping there is a democracy on the shore when and if we are rescued from this stormy sea.
Good for you, Heather. I like to tell my friends what the flight attendants tell you on a plane flight: Put the oxygen mask on yourself first so you will be able to help others. The gorgeous photo is particularly serene and comforting. Spending even 15 minutes in nature every day so helps one mood. Thank you for all you are doing for us and for the generations of historians to come.
Take care
I admire that Heather will truly “take care“ of her physical and emotional needs even in the middle of such a turbulent time. Her writing and her interviews are teaching me many lessons about American history past and present. She is not alarmed by Trump and his antics, She simply writes the history as she sees it.
Professor has studied the history of America to save America for this time of crisis. She has been prepared to lead the war against the insurrection. This is her destiny.
Without people like Heather who carefully observe and accurately describe, we'd be lost. What she does is necessary, but not sufficient. We also need scientists. By "scientist" I mean people who derive and test hypotheses (testable conclusions).
I'm a scientist. The following is a hypothesis about how to cure the authoritarian disease that, if you're reading this, and if you're a scientist, you'll want to test:
https://jamesrcarey.substack.com/p/consciousness-e14
You are right this HCR is necessary and important for us, but not sufficient. Awareness is key and that is what she is trying for. Then the fight against despair and for hope. As Newsom says- action now.
Time will tell, but in my mind, when we see Gavin Newsom speak, we are looking at POTUS 48.
in 2027 Newsom will be 60..just about right. He *seems* reluctant- which is good. Some say he is quirky. Californians voted for him.I trust that he's learning. Has had a college education, but not higher. Okay. We need to focus on him as he acts now. He is certainly saying the right things and with conviction. We desperately need forceful leadership in the right direction... not perfection. The insurrectionists are lawless and criminal. Newsom has to be careful. If he is a threat, they will go after him... already he is a threat. He has the right tactic to get under Trump's skin and challenge Trump's need for dominance. Game on (I hope) and time will tell, I agree.
The Democrats are increasingly disappointed in their leadership save for a few fighters like Schiff and Raskin and a few others. Their low ratings I believe are not about their policies but *because they don't fight fire with fire*. Marc Elias is saying in effect, bring a missile to a gun fight. Democrats (Independents-more moving that way, and even Republicans of old) want to meet the moment and fight back.
Don't rule out JB Pritzker. I might be alone in this, but while I am very much amused by Newsome turning the table on Trump, and I appreciate his fight against redistricting, you can like what someone does but not want them as POTUS.
I admit to being both old and a constituent of Pritzker. To me, he has undefinable characteristics that seem more "presidential" but I do realize times and society are changing. In the long run, what matters is POLICIES, not media hits. In any case, as Heather has said, it's a bit early to be placing our bets.
Don't forget Jeb Bush, who was POTUS number...........uh, NOPE, didn't happen to that front runner!
Good someone’s calling Trump on his BS. To win in ‘28, though,countering Trump/MAGA/Vance won’t be enough. Newsom will have to offer something new.
Thank you James. Please educate the readers by writing more about what you observe now.
Thank you for saying that, Hiro. If you don't mind, and assuming you haven't already done so, I'll ask that you subscribe to my (forever fee-free) newsletter and contribute to my efforts by using the comment field to make comments and ask questions.
FYI: historians doing research, as HCR does, ARE scientists.
I agree, and she's great at it, but we need a scientist to understand the cause and cure of the authoritarian disease. I'm not saying that's what she should do, I'm just saying that is not what she does.
I think we're all natural-born scientists, but too many have been taught to avoid doing science.
Marc, and she is teaching us how to pay attention and. ACT.
Dr. Richardson puts in so much work to write these letters. Her references are astounding. WORK, not just writing, research. Mind boggling!
It is an insurrection as it has been... just continuing now with all the power we stupidly tragically gave this now movement.
Taking care of "me" is not the highest calling, but it is the highest priority. If we don't take care of ourselves, we can't help anyone, including ourselves.
We all have to take care of what we are now experiencing as trauma. The only way to get it out of our bodies is to dance, sing, shake, or a nice long walk on the beach, jumping in the waves. We are now being emotionally and for some, physically abused by our government on a consistent basis.
Find a way to experience joy in your life every day. Don’t let those MAGA bastards destroy you.
Joanne, you said it all. The abuse that we suffer daily is heart breaking no only for ourselves but for the generations coming up😢😢😢
So true. Many of us are suffering that trauma of worry without even realizing it. My mind has my happy dogs and cats and hens, my piano, my fiber work. But my body is too painful and rickety for someone in her early 70s. I think the stress of this hour has a lot to do with that.
Even, and maybe especially, the small things.
Good advice, Deb
First Fig”
First Fig
My candle burns at both ends
It will not last the night
But, ah my foes, and oh my friends
It gives a lovely light.
Edna St. Vincent Millay
Gods grace to you and yours, Heather. Live long and prosper.
My Father sent this to me in a letter while I was still in college. He had an uncanny
way of being aware of my activities no matter how far I roamed! I memorized it as a beautiful cautionary reminder! Thank You Professor for, reminding me still.
My father sent the following to me
in college:
There once was a girl named Wild
Who kept herself undefiled
By thinking of Jesus
And social diseases
And the possibility of having a child.
(Author Reknowned?)
Love it!
Did Millay write this in Camden? That would be a fun coincidence!
Sleep well, Heather.
Sleep is an amazing restorative. We all need to heed the advice of Heather's friend and not try to burn the candle at both ends. As a very wise slightly older teenager said to me several lifetimes ago when I was a slightly younger teenager, we can't always be going at 100%. Hard to remember sometimes, hard, sometimes, to put into practice, but essential if we're going to be at our best as much of the time as we'd like.
Glad Heather is taking care of herself with sleep and rest. She is our bravest defender of democracy. I was inspired to write a poem honoring her: https://democracydefender2025.substack.com/p/heather-cox-richardson-letters-history-democracy
Beautifully written. And true👍💖
Your interview with Gavin Newsom yesterday was masterful. Enjoy your day off. Bill
I think it's notable that as a historian – not a journalist nor a network personality – Heather wouldn't typically be first in line to interview the chief executive of the fourth largest economy on the planet. That she scored this interview almost immediately after Newsom's momentous announcement speaks to Heather's increasing gravitas in the current-events universe.
It is also a commentary on the diminishing value of corporate media and Newsom's recognition of the trend. Other Democratic leaders should catch up.
Indeed it was !
Thank you for reminder to go back and watch it!
I have posted the link to FB, and to a couple friends.
Sleep well dear Heather.
I don’t know how you keep up this pace. And I’m so grateful for all you do to keep us informed and to help us stay sane.
AND I’m so happy you’re giving yourself some rest tonight.❤️
Yes! We worry about you.
Don't burn out that candle. We can wait another day. America and the world needs your wisdom.
Take care, we need you..
What a fantastic conversation between you and Gov. Newsom. Your questions were spot on, as were your responses. Kudos
Indeed you are entirely deserving of a respite. By chance Joyce Vance also posted that she was taking a night off and in my appreciation note to her I also noted how indebted to you are all us who cherish the ideals which were always our aspirational goals. Here is a copy of the note to Joyce: If there is anyone more deserving of a night’s rest I can’t imagine who that could be. Your ability to explain complex legal issues in clear lucid English for the vast majority of your fellow Americans who are not lawyers is unparalleled. You and your soul mate Heather Cox Richardson who puts our current misery into historical context in a way that is probably new to the vast majority of her readers (certainly for me) are like life preservers for all of us who are hoping there is a democracy on the shore when and if we are rescued from this stormy sea.
You keep us going Professor ….❤️☮️🫵🏻
Don’t forget you should adjust your oxygen mask first. It’s a helpful metaphor! Thanks for all you do. Sweet dreams.
Good for you, taking some time for yourself, so well deserved!!
Thank you for all you do to keep us informed!
Heather - you are life sustaining!
❤️❤️❤️. Important to take care of yourself. So grateful for all you do.
Take care of yourself, Heather! I really appreciate your columns.
I'd bet the friend is Buddy. He's right. Rest well.
Good for you, Heather. I like to tell my friends what the flight attendants tell you on a plane flight: Put the oxygen mask on yourself first so you will be able to help others. The gorgeous photo is particularly serene and comforting. Spending even 15 minutes in nature every day so helps one mood. Thank you for all you are doing for us and for the generations of historians to come.
Thanks for all you do, too, Cathy!