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The Opinions

Make America 1897 Again

Jan 28, 2025
In a captivating discussion, Jamelle Bouie, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times, dives into the lessons the 1890s can teach us about today’s political climate. He unpacks Donald Trump’s surprising admiration for President McKinley, examining how this reflects shifting cultural attitudes. The conversation explores the tensions between elitism and populism, the impact of tech industry ambitions, and the echoes of the Gilded Age in modern society. Bouie highlights how past ideologies are reshaping our current political landscape.
19:44

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Quick takeaways

  • Trump's admiration for McKinley reflects a strategic alignment with historical populist themes amidst rising economic inequality in modern America.
  • The tech industry's support for Trump highlights an ideological shift towards elitism, undermining democratic values in favor of concentrated wealth and power.

Deep dives

Trump's Historical Influence: The McKinley Connection

Donald Trump's recent comments about President William McKinley highlight an attempt to align himself with historical figures in a symbolic manner. Rather than have a deep-rooted political vision, Trump appears to be using McKinley's name to bolster his identity as a prominent Republican leader. This connection is particularly notable given the historical context of the late 19th century, which saw significant cultural and economic transformation, marked by mass immigration and rising wealth concentrations that resonate with today's political climate. Trump’s focus on McKinley, especially his tariff policies, suggests a desire to reclaim certain populist themes while drawing parallels to the challenges of modern America.

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