Why I have been writing a niche history blog for 15 years

Summary

The author reflects on their 15 years of blogging, noting the shift from early blogging to social media and Substack. They express a preference for the intellectual community found in early blogging and Substack newsletters.

Key Takeaways

1. The author started a niche history blog in 2010 and has continued writing it for 15 years, adapting to changes in online platforms.
2. The author prefers the intellectual community and format of Substack newsletters over contemporary social media and short-form video content.
3. The author enjoys sharing interesting and obscure information that is not readily available elsewhere online.

Statement Breakdown

• Claimed Facts: 60% of statements the article presents as facts
• Opinions: 30% of statements classified as editorial or subjective
• Claims: 10% of statements surfaced for additional reader evaluation

Credibility & Bias Reasoning

Credibility assessment: The article is a personal reflection by the author, detailing their experience with blogging and the evolution of online writing platforms. The author's claims are based on their direct experiences and observations, increasing credibility. There is minimal reliance on external sources, but the claims are plausible and consistent with the described context.

Bias assessment: Nostalgic Perspective on Early Blogging. The author expresses a clear preference for the early days of blogging and a critical view of contemporary social media and video content. This perspective shapes the narrative, highlighting the perceived decline in quality and community. The author's viewpoint is evident but doesn't significantly distort factual claims.

Note: This article is a personal reflection. Interpret claims within the context of the author's experiences and opinions.

Credibility flag: Personal Account

Claimed Facts (6)

• This is a statement of fact about the author's personal history.
• This is a factual detail about the author's life at the time.
• This is a statement of the author's experience.
• This is a factual claim about the author's experience and the Public Domain Review.
• This is a statement of fact about the author's experience.
• This is a statement of fact about the author's current situation.

Opinions (5)

• This is a subjective assessment of the current state of blogging.
• This is a subjective comparison of different online communities.
• This is a subjective assessment of Substack's value.
• This is a subjective statement about the author's feelings.
• This is a subjective statement about the author's current life.

Claims (4)

• This is an overstatement, as blogging still exists, though its prominence may have diminished.
• This is a generalization about social media elevating toxic behavior.
• The term "halcyon days" is an emotional appeal and the claim about international media coverage is not substantiated.
• This is a subjective dislike presented as a general observation about YouTube content.

Key Sources

• Benjamin Breen — Author
• Public Domain Review — History Blog