The political landscape shifted dramatically in 2015, a moment historian Larry Schweikart pinpointed as a defining one for Donald Trump’s rise. He recently discussed this turning point, and the profound changes in American politics, with Steve Bannon. Schweikart argued that Trump tapped into something fundamentally new, a force largely missed by established political observers.
Schweikart’s early support for Trump came at a personal cost. He revealed losing friendships and fracturing relationships with colleagues who vehemently opposed the candidacy. The resistance wasn’t simply disagreement; it was disbelief that Trump could actually succeed.
He specifically recalled friction with figures at National Review, a once-respected conservative publication. Schweikart attempted to reason with them, pointing to polling data and voter registration trends that clearly indicated Trump’s momentum. His warnings were dismissed, met with staunch opposition and a refusal to acknowledge the changing dynamics.
Schweikart realized politics had fundamentally evolved since the eras of Ronald Reagan and even Franklin Roosevelt. He explained that each successful leader – Lincoln, Roosevelt, Reagan – benefited from being uniquely suited to the dominant communication medium of their time. Lincoln’s powerful oratory might not have translated to radio, while Reagan’s polished presentation was ideal for television.
The historian emphasized the importance of understanding historical significance. He proposed a simple metric: assessing the breadth of impact – how many people are affected, and for how long. This “law of significance,” he argued, is crucial for accurately evaluating events and figures in history.
Bannon steered the conversation toward a critical issue: the inadequacy of modern history textbooks. He observed that finding a truly unbiased account of the American experience, suitable for students, was a near impossibility. The narratives presented often lacked depth and failed to capture the full complexity of the nation’s story.
Schweikart’s insights highlighted a growing disconnect between traditional political analysis and the realities unfolding on the ground. His willingness to challenge conventional wisdom, even at personal expense, underscored the disruptive nature of Trump’s ascent and the profound shifts occurring within the American political landscape.
