History is like a log floating downriver. Much of the time it bobs along in a predictable sort of way. Sometimes it snags on a rock or along the banks, but the river always moves it along eventually. And then there are the times that the sheer momentum of spring melt or quickening rapids takes over.
We are living in one of those times when the speed of history is picking up. It’s not one thing. It’s everything. Times like this throw out the conventional wisdom pretty quickly.
This brings me to today’s column (gift link). For me, the conventional wisdom surrounding copper-nickel mining in northern Minnesota always seemed a little stagnant. The cost of turning a massive but relatively low grade mineral reserve into a profitable industry appeared prohibitive. Maybe it still is. Nevertheless, the debate has changed, not only because of politics, but because of technology and trade.
The plaintive discussion of “creating jobs” was always a local argument. If it’s not clear by now, modern industry does not think in terms of jobs. Instead, projections showing untold demand for critical minerals are flashing in the pan. But the playing field is global. Will Minnesota minerals be cheaper or more plentiful than Australian ones, or Canadian ones? If you thought China held the ability to manipulate the world steel market, consider its enviable position in rare earths.
The study of history always gives clues about potential outcomes. All mining is a race against the end of the resource and the end of the money. Minnesota’s Iron Range has cheated death on both fronts many times. Here, we know what happens when demand takes over, when the rapids of history start to rush. We also know, or should, that nothing lasts forever. If we don’t combine these facts in our public policy, we will come out on the losing end.
Read “Hungry tech sector will force tough choices over critical minerals” in the Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025 edition of the Minnesota Star Tribune.
Aaron J. Brown is a columnist and member of the editorial board for the Minnesota Star Tribune. His new book about Hibbing Mayor Victor Power and his momentous fight against the world’s largest corporation will be out soon.
