Donald Trump’s second Inaugural Address took a surprising turn, diving deep into the 19th century for inspiration. From tariffs to Manifest Destiny, his vision seems rooted in a time when America was all about expansion, railroads, and bold claims. But here’s the thing: while that era might sound exciting, it’s not exactly a blueprint for today’s challenges.

Trump’s admiration for figures like William McKinley and his love for 19th-century ideals—think booming industries, land grabs, and a “frontier spirit”—paint a picture of a leader longing for a simpler, brasher America. Back then, the country was all about growth, even if it meant cutting corners or ignoring the consequences. Historians note that Americans of that time saw wealth as the ultimate good, often turning a blind eye to exploitation and environmental damage. Sound familiar?

But here’s the catch: the world has changed. The 19th century was a time of raw ambition and unchecked expansion, but today’s global landscape demands nuance, cooperation, and long-term thinking. Trump’s populist approach, with its focus on bold promises and nostalgic rhetoric, might resonate with some, but it risks overlooking the complexities of modern governance.

The appeal of Trump’s vision lies in its simplicity. It’s easy to romanticize an era when America was on the rise, fueled by ambition and a sense of divine mission. But as history shows, not everything that worked back then translates well to the present. Populism thrives on big ideas and even bigger promises, but without a solid plan, it often falls short.

So, while Trump’s 19th-century-inspired vision might sound grand, it’s worth asking: can it really deliver in today’s world? The answer, it seems, might be more complicated than a simple “yes” or “no.”