Dear Reader,
The 2025-2026 edition of Past and Present engages with an immense variety of subject matter across History and Political Science. Some of the topics are lighthearted, such as a paper on the Bermuda Triangle in pop culture, in which references to SpongeBob and Fleetwood Mac abound. Others are rather dark, dealing with the racial violence of the American Reconstruction Era. Despite the incredibly diverse subject matter, one theme emerged: nearly each of these papers deals with, in some way, government corruption and authoritarianism. From the authoritarian regime of modern-day Nicaragua to the failed fascist takeover of 20th Century Britain, the authors featured in this edition of Past and Present appear critically aware of the danger that abuse of authority can present. In the face of such a grim theme, it can be easy to feel powerless and insignificant. This is what the cover art depicts: a whirlpool, representing the Bermuda Triangle, overpowering and consuming the subject matter of the other works: the Mystery Machine from Scooby-Doo, a ballot box, and the Nicaraguan flag, all being consumed by the sea. But more importantly, so are the likes of Napoleon Bonaparte, Oswald Mosley, and George Bush. It is imperative to remember that while everyday people may feel helpless in the face of presidents and emperors, even the most mighty will fall. To scandal, to uprising, to their own folly, or, as the Bermuda Triangle represents, to nature herself. If the people are being dragged into the breach, then so are our leaders, our corrupt sheriffs and our Citizen Kings.
It is so easy to feel powerless in the face of an authority that feels all powerful.
This cover art is meant to represent that feeling. But it also represents the ultimate powerlessness of these individuals, in spite of what they desperately want you to believe. Perhaps not so literally to a whirlpool in the Bermuda Triangle, but inevitably, nonetheless.
This, too, shall pass.
Thank you,
Jane Cox
Benjamin Werkley
Cover of the 2026 Edition of Past and Present:
