Long Shadow Establishing Connection
14 snips
Jul 1, 2025 
Alex Horton, a national security reporter for The Washington Post and a former soldier, shares insights from his unique journey. He discusses the stark transformation of communication post-9/11 and how the internet sparked anti-war activism. Horton reflects on the intersection of technology and military life, highlighting his blog's authentic portrayal of soldiers. The conversation also examines grassroots political movements and the role of social media in mobilizing public support, revealing how these digital tools empower citizens in times of crisis.
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Origin of Flash Mobs
- Bill Wasek created the Mob Project to gather strangers in New York for no reason using chain emails.
- His first mob attracted 200 people to an unusual gathering in a Macy's rug department causing surprise among store staff.
Internet Powers Massive Global Protests
- The largest protest in history used the internet to coordinate opposition to the Iraq war globally.
- Millions mobilized demonstrating the internet's power to unite people for political action.
Soldiers Blogging From Iraq
- Alex Horton started blogging from Iraq to share soldiers' real experiences and bypass censorship.
- His Army of Dude blog gained a wide audience for direct and raw stories from the front lines.