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⬅️ Previous capture (2021-12-17)
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I've been reading _A People's History of the United States_ by Howard Zinn. It's a tough read in that it shows that a lot of what's happening in the modern world today is, in fact, not new--but simultaneously it's comforting in an odd way. It shows that the current situation isn't new, just that we're more informed about it, and I feel that knowing the history is important for everyone. I spoke about it with a coworker and described it as like eating one's vegetables as a child: it may not be a pleasant experience, but eventually (hopefully!) one learns to appreciate it, and it's indeed important to eat well.
Absolute certified classic, great choice. Yes, unfortunately this kind of stuff is essential to learn but at the same time mindnumbingly depressing. I liken this sort of historical knowledge to Eldritch horror—it's the true nature of the world, but stare too deep and you'll be driven mad, alienated from everyone you know with ravings they cannot possibly hope to comprehend. Regardless, there can be no justice on stolen land and I look forward to seeing the dissolution of this profoundly evil empire, perhaps even in our lifetimes.
I read that book in my twenties...along with books about Stalin's russia, nazi germany...all kinds of "pulling back the curtain" revelations. It was enthralling and terrible to see how brutal the world can be. Precisely at the moment when answers appear to be clearest.