A Historian Attempts to Explain Trump

Cause and effect conclusions in politics are open to anyone. We all use it whether we write a blog like this one or read one. A historian took on the task of presenting Trump as part of an ongoing thread in U.S. religion and politics. The critic said this was a noble effort but the author had cherry picked individuals through history to find big egos who were thought to represent broad appeal. 

Everyone, supporters and detractors (like me), agree Trump has support because millions of voters have grievances. People are always trolling the political landscape looking for some way or someone to address these grievances. We would go quite far into the weeds to list the groups and the grievances; they have been discussed a gazillion times. 

Those of us on the losing side like to point out that Trump has made no progress in helping his group with their grievances. Probably most such people are worse off because of Trump. As we see prices and taxes go up as well as some unemployment we get optimistic thinking those who voted for Trump will see their mistake and get rid of him. 

The problem we face is that the group with grievances still has them. That Trump has not helped has made little change in the political landscape. 

Add to that the mysterious force that draws people to certain personalities. I've quoted a long ago political advisor and friend who said the most attractive political personality is not the one who projects affection toward voters. Instead, it is the one who each voters says, " If she (he) knew me personally, she would like me." Trump somehow projects this to the majority. 

Al this give my conclusion that a historian who thinks he/she can find a thread of policy or background that explains or current times should be considered with doubt.