Dr. Richardson grew up in Maine and her love of Maine shows (appropriately).
However, Maine has more than its fair share of far right advocates and, today, is one of the leaders in new "Assault Weapons Training" facilities, for folks who are imbued in the thought that the (far right) violence is the true way forward.
Because? Maine and "freedom" go hand in hand. Ask a rural Mainer about freedom and then step back a bit to avoid the spit while the guy talks.
Could it be that every state has its “However........”? I know mine does. We had a Blue Wave this past November (Yay!!!), HOWEVER..........we do have a pesky problem with guys wanting to kidnap and execute our governor. As Shakespeare said: “Same Play, Different Actors?” The louder megaphone, and bot-enhanced-illusion these faux”Freedom” folk represent are like ticks on an evening walk. It’s not really “news”. The only real fact is that they are, of course, around, so dress (our political minds and actions) accordingly. Heather’s Letters everyday remind me of this. Always, Alway, Always there is the struggle for our country to live up to noble ideals. And Always, Always, Always there will be “However.......”
As a native Michigander, now in Massachusetts, I have watched the news from my home state with alarm. I'll bet it's number two on that list of states with assault-training facilities. On a road trip to PEI in 2021, in the midst of the Covid pandemic, the only place I didn't feel safe was southern Maine - there was a lot of backlash against masking and vaccines.
I too lived in Michigan for many years, when it was a staunchly Democrat state. And, when I lived in Connecticut, also a bastion of blue, I could drive east into the less populated areas and see fields of trump signs. Probably every blue state has its share of those who vote against their own interests, but cry for government help whenever they run into calamity.
I feel the same way about my beloved Wisconsin. What happened when walker became governor has destroyed what was once a great state for human beings. I feel like it was the beginning of the crisis we’re living with. I’m still reeling from the reality that Wisconsin citizens are so hateful.
I agree. I used to think Michigan was a great state to live in, but it was shocking to see some of the people conspire to kidnap the governor. It's not the state I remember, but these events have certainly revealed how many people are really scared and disaffected all over the country, especially in the more rural areas.
Mike- I think most people think that slavery (racism) was only happening in the South but it affected every place in America-Maine included. Slavery in New England may not have been as populous as in the South but the practice of enslaving Black people was in full effect-especially among the most powerful and wealthy people. Maine's shipbuilding capabilities and proximity to the coast incentivized men to cash in on the Atlantic Slave Trade.
Before becoming an official state, there were hundreds of enslaved Black people in Maine who were in bondage to White people-most of them were in the Kittery/Berwick area. Vermont was the first state to outlaw slavery in 1777 and Massachusetts followed in 1789. New York abolished slavery in 1827-after two centuries of allowing it to exist within their borders. New Jersey didn't abolish it until 1866.
As a result of such a wide spread practice of dehumanizing and demonizing Black folks for centuries in America (and other places), it's no wonder that the lingering dis-ease of racism is everywhere!
There's no way that slave holders would have wanted to increase jobs for white people when they could have free labor from slaves. Think about that for our economy as well as our democracy. 'Free market capitalism' meant more to slave holders. Racism unfortunately, has a 'gold' appeal as well as a power or bigot appeal. Slave holders and gold diggers never believed in "All men are created equal" never mind women.... They wanted the exclusive power and glory of the aristocratic class of Europe. That's the goal of the radical right.
Only with the 2020 election did I fully understand that racism in Chicago is worse than in the South. And Chicago may elect a racist mayor this month. He is a school voucher advocate, the best proof of his real self.
Here in Akron, Ohio, our history blesses us with a city that respects people of all races and cultures. John Brown and Sojourner Truth lived here. There are dozens of homes that were part of the Underground Railroad.
The rubber factories were the great equalizer. Three of every four tires in the world were made in Akron. The need for workers welcomed all. Blacks from the South, Italians, Irish, those of Slavic heritage. All worked side by side building tires, drank after-work beers in the same bars, bowled on the same leagues. Everyone's children went to school together and played on the same sports teams. Currently, Akron has an annual Pride Parade and sponsored the Gay Olympics. We have several foundations that support minority owned businesses. There are enough beds for any unhomed person who wants to be off the streets. Akron has been voted one of the friendliest cities in the country.
Gina - That being said, the disease of racism has infected our police department. Research the case of Jayland Walker. Racist cops are being weeded out (not quick enough!)
Mike S. In adjacent rural areas, there are confederate and Trump flags. More and more the further south in the state. Most of Ohio is solid red. As the rubber shops closed (and steel mills in Youngstown and Canton) and the influence of Unions waned, the Democratic hold has faded. Still, Akron is a tiny gem in the landscape of equality.
I am affected negatively each and every time I still see "Trump" signs, etc. in my area. And, sadly, my SO proudly points out each one. I never dreamed politics would cause such a rift in my life with my SO. (PS: I resented even having to type that man's name.)
It never ceases to amaze how much every day, seemingly low impact actions, by normal every day folks, adds up to history making, changing the entire landscape impacts. Historians like HCR and Timothy Snyder (I follow him too and highly recommend) connecting the dots for us provides a more full and deeper understanding that one person or a small group of people can and often do make truly significant changes for the better.
MaryPat, I am so happy to see that Michigan is about to repeal the disastrous “right-to-work” debacle! I hope other states take notice and follow suit.
So true. I’m a native Oregonian. Although we are seen as a deeply blue state, the rural areas are very red. They are really disgruntled that the “big-city liberals” are in the majority and vote for progressive candidates and measures. There is a movement in some eastern and southern counties to secede from Oregon and become part of Idaho. It keeps gaining steam. It doesn’t seem likely it will see success, but it will be interesting to see how it plays out.
I just moved to OR --from FL--this past year. I'm so incredibly relieved to be out of the morass that is FL, though I keep a close eye on FL politics. I'm also aware that seemingly-Blue Oregon is really not all that--and am trying to learn as much as I can about the political lay of the land here. I hope I can get info as clear and true as HCR gives us everyday about the American scene.
😨😢😖 You are correct about Maine having it's fair share of far right crazies and they aren't just confined to the County (Aroostook, of course) but inhabit a good many of the dark rural corners of this state...
Fortunately, the more populous southern half of the state can (and usually does) out-vote the troglodytes.
About 30 years ago, my uncle moved to Maine to as a judge, but found it very unwelcoming and couldn't wait to leave. He felt like a foreigner on US soil for the first time in his life.
. I am a native - and current resident - of Massachusetts - obvious connections to Maine; when I look at a map from the days before Maine became a state in its own right, I marvel at what an interesting shape - literally - my state would be if that territory had not become a state. And the politics? How that would have played out in the 21st C; Massachusetts being far more “left”.
Sadly, a close family friend, also a MA native, moved to Maine about 30 years ago. Always a conservative, he also clearly revealed his bigotry when in casual conversation he recommended that WE also move to Maine. As we chatted, I asked what were his s reasons for making the move. Top of the list was this: “There aren’t as many Black people in Maine.”
We are still in touch, so I know his opinions still rule. That being said, Maine is a treasure in so many ways. Look at that map again - in land area, it gobbles up such a huge portion of the 6 states. If it had remained part of Massachusetts…..Wow!
I'm sure there are many people who share your family friend's sentiments ("There aren't as many Black people in Maine"), but would not come right out and say it. I don't know which is worse. There are racists everywhere.
Ellen-Yes-you are so right. Imagine Black people having to navigate through places where they're not wanted and could be in danger anytime for no reason except skin color. People who are discriminated against because of religion or sexual orientation can hide these characteristics-you can't hide skin color though and so Black people can be in peril anywhere-especially when they know that they're not welcome in certain states/areas where White folks predominate and make it known that they are not wanted there.
I moved to Maine right before seventh grade, after having lived in MD, TX, CA and VA. During a class the topic of racism came up and it was such a foreign concept to these kids who were growing up in an all white community. They were all perplexed and revolted by it. That was the Maine I knew. It's sad that there are people moving there because of their racist beliefs. I hope they are not infecting their neighbors with it.
When I grew up in an all white Catholic area of Wisconsin, I had to discover Protestants and Blacks and the antipathies of each group toward each other. I also discovered a profound difference between the way girls and boys were treated, what were the expectations of each 'gender'. Also, town kids vs. country kids. Not the God loves everyone and Jesus wants us to love everyone 'world'. My 93-year-old mom, born and raised in Winnipeg, is also constantly being made aware of these 'realities' vs her upbringing. Maybe one of our weaknesses is not realizing that there is evil in the world, that we need to be aware and compassionate and to be strong and persevere. Maybe that's an aspect of wisdom?
I think it's more the tribalism tendency and is worldwide and historically ubiquitous. Conservatives love to point out the imperfections of liberals, seemingly unaware that the imperfections are those of humans (and, perhaps, other entities...).
It would be better to see these things not as us vs them but as good vs evil -- a battle fought by many religions and traditions and cultures throughout time. A person's imperfection does not necessarily characterize the person while a pattern of imperfections pretty much does -- although there is an allowance for 'change'. But focusing on the imperfections to create and amplify fear is much easier, with the resulting sense of power addicting. Tribalism thrives on that addiction, tribalism in all its forms: racism, dogmatism, nationalism, extremism, etc.. -- hyping the difference between us and them heightens the thrill and reinforces the addition.
It's why the battle is never truly won, I guess. The sense of peace and contentment and doing good doesn't seem to satisfy some prehistoric urge. It's not too hard to see this prehistoric urge in every part of the world.
As a Mainer, I am well aware of your shared comments. And it is deeply troubling..I have no real answer as I am cocooned in the southern part of state. But I am aware that much of the available communication in northern part of state is Fox News and similar broadcasting.
Thank you for sharing that Gina. I had no idea that northerners also enslaved people too, until recently and definitely not that it happened in Maine as well.
I do find it curious that if black people lived there as early as they did, why is there has not been a growing population ever since? Was there a reason they left the state in mass?
My step-son-in-law, raised Republican in Illinois, illustrious career at Bath Iron Works, living in Topsham, outdoorsman, walked the Appalachian Trail as soon as he was allowed to retire. I wouldn’t dare ask what his politics are today, but shall send him the Maine story.
I feel the same way, Michael. I won't think the same of Maine either despite all talk and no walk Susie Q. I am glad that Heather found this story and became the guide to our history and our times that she is today. Kudos to Buddy too for the great pun.
Fascinating and inspirational. I'll never think of Maine the same way. And knowing the story awoke the scholar in you is a treasure all its own.
Michael,
Dr. Richardson grew up in Maine and her love of Maine shows (appropriately).
However, Maine has more than its fair share of far right advocates and, today, is one of the leaders in new "Assault Weapons Training" facilities, for folks who are imbued in the thought that the (far right) violence is the true way forward.
Because? Maine and "freedom" go hand in hand. Ask a rural Mainer about freedom and then step back a bit to avoid the spit while the guy talks.
https://topgunsecurityacademy.com/security-training-courses/states/maine
or just google ("Assault weapons training in Maine").
Could it be that every state has its “However........”? I know mine does. We had a Blue Wave this past November (Yay!!!), HOWEVER..........we do have a pesky problem with guys wanting to kidnap and execute our governor. As Shakespeare said: “Same Play, Different Actors?” The louder megaphone, and bot-enhanced-illusion these faux”Freedom” folk represent are like ticks on an evening walk. It’s not really “news”. The only real fact is that they are, of course, around, so dress (our political minds and actions) accordingly. Heather’s Letters everyday remind me of this. Always, Alway, Always there is the struggle for our country to live up to noble ideals. And Always, Always, Always there will be “However.......”
As a native Michigander, now in Massachusetts, I have watched the news from my home state with alarm. I'll bet it's number two on that list of states with assault-training facilities. On a road trip to PEI in 2021, in the midst of the Covid pandemic, the only place I didn't feel safe was southern Maine - there was a lot of backlash against masking and vaccines.
I too lived in Michigan for many years, when it was a staunchly Democrat state. And, when I lived in Connecticut, also a bastion of blue, I could drive east into the less populated areas and see fields of trump signs. Probably every blue state has its share of those who vote against their own interests, but cry for government help whenever they run into calamity.
I feel the same way about my beloved Wisconsin. What happened when walker became governor has destroyed what was once a great state for human beings. I feel like it was the beginning of the crisis we’re living with. I’m still reeling from the reality that Wisconsin citizens are so hateful.
I agree. I used to think Michigan was a great state to live in, but it was shocking to see some of the people conspire to kidnap the governor. It's not the state I remember, but these events have certainly revealed how many people are really scared and disaffected all over the country, especially in the more rural areas.
Yep.
I am in NY. Guy across the street from me has 4'x8' TRUMP flag flying all day, every day on big white pole.
Two guys about 1/4 mile from my farm have Confederate flags.
One barn has a "F*CK Biden" sign up.
Mike- I think most people think that slavery (racism) was only happening in the South but it affected every place in America-Maine included. Slavery in New England may not have been as populous as in the South but the practice of enslaving Black people was in full effect-especially among the most powerful and wealthy people. Maine's shipbuilding capabilities and proximity to the coast incentivized men to cash in on the Atlantic Slave Trade.
Before becoming an official state, there were hundreds of enslaved Black people in Maine who were in bondage to White people-most of them were in the Kittery/Berwick area. Vermont was the first state to outlaw slavery in 1777 and Massachusetts followed in 1789. New York abolished slavery in 1827-after two centuries of allowing it to exist within their borders. New Jersey didn't abolish it until 1866.
As a result of such a wide spread practice of dehumanizing and demonizing Black folks for centuries in America (and other places), it's no wonder that the lingering dis-ease of racism is everywhere!
There's no way that slave holders would have wanted to increase jobs for white people when they could have free labor from slaves. Think about that for our economy as well as our democracy. 'Free market capitalism' meant more to slave holders. Racism unfortunately, has a 'gold' appeal as well as a power or bigot appeal. Slave holders and gold diggers never believed in "All men are created equal" never mind women.... They wanted the exclusive power and glory of the aristocratic class of Europe. That's the goal of the radical right.
Sadly correct.
Well and economically stated Roxanna. Brava ~
Only with the 2020 election did I fully understand that racism in Chicago is worse than in the South. And Chicago may elect a racist mayor this month. He is a school voucher advocate, the best proof of his real self.
Best not to excuse rascism.
Mike S and Gina
Here in Akron, Ohio, our history blesses us with a city that respects people of all races and cultures. John Brown and Sojourner Truth lived here. There are dozens of homes that were part of the Underground Railroad.
The rubber factories were the great equalizer. Three of every four tires in the world were made in Akron. The need for workers welcomed all. Blacks from the South, Italians, Irish, those of Slavic heritage. All worked side by side building tires, drank after-work beers in the same bars, bowled on the same leagues. Everyone's children went to school together and played on the same sports teams. Currently, Akron has an annual Pride Parade and sponsored the Gay Olympics. We have several foundations that support minority owned businesses. There are enough beds for any unhomed person who wants to be off the streets. Akron has been voted one of the friendliest cities in the country.
Gina - That being said, the disease of racism has infected our police department. Research the case of Jayland Walker. Racist cops are being weeded out (not quick enough!)
Mike S. In adjacent rural areas, there are confederate and Trump flags. More and more the further south in the state. Most of Ohio is solid red. As the rubber shops closed (and steel mills in Youngstown and Canton) and the influence of Unions waned, the Democratic hold has faded. Still, Akron is a tiny gem in the landscape of equality.
can you get rid of Jim Jordan please?
If only I could!
If you want to learn more about the culture and work ethic that made Akron what it is, read "The Hard Way on Purpose" by David Giffels.
I’m going to find this book. Thanks for the info.
I am affected negatively each and every time I still see "Trump" signs, etc. in my area. And, sadly, my SO proudly points out each one. I never dreamed politics would cause such a rift in my life with my SO. (PS: I resented even having to type that man's name.)
It never ceases to amaze how much every day, seemingly low impact actions, by normal every day folks, adds up to history making, changing the entire landscape impacts. Historians like HCR and Timothy Snyder (I follow him too and highly recommend) connecting the dots for us provides a more full and deeper understanding that one person or a small group of people can and often do make truly significant changes for the better.
Michigan, My Michigan...
MaryPat, I am so happy to see that Michigan is about to repeal the disastrous “right-to-work” debacle! I hope other states take notice and follow suit.
"Right to work, for less". Thank providence for brave Michigan !
Me, too.
So true. I’m a native Oregonian. Although we are seen as a deeply blue state, the rural areas are very red. They are really disgruntled that the “big-city liberals” are in the majority and vote for progressive candidates and measures. There is a movement in some eastern and southern counties to secede from Oregon and become part of Idaho. It keeps gaining steam. It doesn’t seem likely it will see success, but it will be interesting to see how it plays out.
I just moved to OR --from FL--this past year. I'm so incredibly relieved to be out of the morass that is FL, though I keep a close eye on FL politics. I'm also aware that seemingly-Blue Oregon is really not all that--and am trying to learn as much as I can about the political lay of the land here. I hope I can get info as clear and true as HCR gives us everyday about the American scene.
😨😢😖 You are correct about Maine having it's fair share of far right crazies and they aren't just confined to the County (Aroostook, of course) but inhabit a good many of the dark rural corners of this state...
Fortunately, the more populous southern half of the state can (and usually does) out-vote the troglodytes.
About 30 years ago, my uncle moved to Maine to as a judge, but found it very unwelcoming and couldn't wait to leave. He felt like a foreigner on US soil for the first time in his life.
. I am a native - and current resident - of Massachusetts - obvious connections to Maine; when I look at a map from the days before Maine became a state in its own right, I marvel at what an interesting shape - literally - my state would be if that territory had not become a state. And the politics? How that would have played out in the 21st C; Massachusetts being far more “left”.
Sadly, a close family friend, also a MA native, moved to Maine about 30 years ago. Always a conservative, he also clearly revealed his bigotry when in casual conversation he recommended that WE also move to Maine. As we chatted, I asked what were his s reasons for making the move. Top of the list was this: “There aren’t as many Black people in Maine.”
We are still in touch, so I know his opinions still rule. That being said, Maine is a treasure in so many ways. Look at that map again - in land area, it gobbles up such a huge portion of the 6 states. If it had remained part of Massachusetts…..Wow!
I'm sure there are many people who share your family friend's sentiments ("There aren't as many Black people in Maine"), but would not come right out and say it. I don't know which is worse. There are racists everywhere.
Ellen-Yes-you are so right. Imagine Black people having to navigate through places where they're not wanted and could be in danger anytime for no reason except skin color. People who are discriminated against because of religion or sexual orientation can hide these characteristics-you can't hide skin color though and so Black people can be in peril anywhere-especially when they know that they're not welcome in certain states/areas where White folks predominate and make it known that they are not wanted there.
I moved to Maine right before seventh grade, after having lived in MD, TX, CA and VA. During a class the topic of racism came up and it was such a foreign concept to these kids who were growing up in an all white community. They were all perplexed and revolted by it. That was the Maine I knew. It's sad that there are people moving there because of their racist beliefs. I hope they are not infecting their neighbors with it.
That was my upbringing in California too. Could not – cannot – wrap my head around the stupid bigotry once I sprung free of the bubble.
When I grew up in an all white Catholic area of Wisconsin, I had to discover Protestants and Blacks and the antipathies of each group toward each other. I also discovered a profound difference between the way girls and boys were treated, what were the expectations of each 'gender'. Also, town kids vs. country kids. Not the God loves everyone and Jesus wants us to love everyone 'world'. My 93-year-old mom, born and raised in Winnipeg, is also constantly being made aware of these 'realities' vs her upbringing. Maybe one of our weaknesses is not realizing that there is evil in the world, that we need to be aware and compassionate and to be strong and persevere. Maybe that's an aspect of wisdom?
Yes.
Americans will be Americans won't they?
I think it's more the tribalism tendency and is worldwide and historically ubiquitous. Conservatives love to point out the imperfections of liberals, seemingly unaware that the imperfections are those of humans (and, perhaps, other entities...).
It would be better to see these things not as us vs them but as good vs evil -- a battle fought by many religions and traditions and cultures throughout time. A person's imperfection does not necessarily characterize the person while a pattern of imperfections pretty much does -- although there is an allowance for 'change'. But focusing on the imperfections to create and amplify fear is much easier, with the resulting sense of power addicting. Tribalism thrives on that addiction, tribalism in all its forms: racism, dogmatism, nationalism, extremism, etc.. -- hyping the difference between us and them heightens the thrill and reinforces the addition.
It's why the battle is never truly won, I guess. The sense of peace and contentment and doing good doesn't seem to satisfy some prehistoric urge. It's not too hard to see this prehistoric urge in every part of the world.
As a Mainer, I am well aware of your shared comments. And it is deeply troubling..I have no real answer as I am cocooned in the southern part of state. But I am aware that much of the available communication in northern part of state is Fox News and similar broadcasting.
If anyone's interested here are some great resources about slavery there.
https://www.pressherald.com/2021/02/14/a-missing-piece-maines-connections-to-slavery-are-hidden-in-plain-sight/
https://www.maine.gov/doe/sites/maine.gov.doe/files/inline-files/2020_11_30_Maine%20DOE%20MSM.pdf
Thank you for sharing that Gina. I had no idea that northerners also enslaved people too, until recently and definitely not that it happened in Maine as well.
I do find it curious that if black people lived there as early as they did, why is there has not been a growing population ever since? Was there a reason they left the state in mass?
On the opposite coast, we too have the scourge. https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2023-02-18/oregon-a-hotbed-of-extremism-seeks-to-curb-paramilitaries
My step-son-in-law, raised Republican in Illinois, illustrious career at Bath Iron Works, living in Topsham, outdoorsman, walked the Appalachian Trail as soon as he was allowed to retire. I wouldn’t dare ask what his politics are today, but shall send him the Maine story.
Thank you, Professor Richardson!
I feel the same way, Michael. I won't think the same of Maine either despite all talk and no walk Susie Q. I am glad that Heather found this story and became the guide to our history and our times that she is today. Kudos to Buddy too for the great pun.