As the Civil War loomed, weapons — like the recently invented bowie knife and rifles that were shipped to Kansas hidden in crates labeled as bibles — became complex political symbols.
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And the Reading List Goes to: Pivotal Oscar Moments
The Academy Awards aren’t just about recognition — they’re about an ever-evolving industry in an ever-evolving society.
The Top 5 Longreads of the Week
This week, we’re sharing stories from Lyle C. May, Samuel Braslow, Lindsey Hilsum, Megan Mayhew Bergman, and Anand Menon.
This Week in Books: Pain and Power
“And it will hurt, but we won’t be the ones doing all of the feeling, finally.” -Harmony Holiday
This Week in Books: We’ve All Been Briefed
“They have washed their hands for you. / And they take the bus home.” —Jericho Brown
A Confederacy of (Dangerous) Dunces
Rebecca Solnit argues that the American Confederacy lives on, with Donald Trump at the helm.
So Much More Than Enough
My favorite director, Lynn Shelton, died suddenly this month at the age of 54. Did the spirit of indie filmmaking go with her?
A Genre of Myths: A Jazz Reading List
Created in New Orleans and played around the world, the music we call jazz is filled with genius, legend, and tragedy.
The Longreads 2019 Holiday Gift Book Guide
Let Longreads help you with your holiday shopping! We’ve made a catalog of books we featured in 2019 that we think would make great gifts for everyone on your list.

