Joe Klein Explains How the History of Four Centuries Ago Still Shapes American Culture and Politics

David Hackett Fischer’s “Albion’s Seed,” published in 1989, describes today’s United States with stunning prescience.

After pummeling the New York area, Ida soaks New England.

A tornado hit Cape Cod and a Connecticut State Police sergeant died after his vehicle was swept away in floodwaters, the authorities said.

Ida’s wind-driven remnants pummel the New York City region.

The city shut most of its subway system and banned residents from traveling until 5 a.m., as elements of the former hurricane created life-threatening flooding.

Long Island and New England Prepare for Rare Hurricane Strike

As Hurricane Henri approached the region, New York City prepared to shut down city beaches, and Boston erected flood barriers around its most vulnerable subway station.