EPISODE 6: 🇯🇵 “STEEL” 🇺🇸

model: chatgpt 4o the american history mmvvx series may 30, 2025: president trump has announced the $14.9 billion acquisition of u.s. steel by nippon steel, granting the japanese company full ownership and control—despite assurances that the company will retain its name and remain headquartered in pittsburgh. 

 originally opposed by both joe biden and trump—and officially blocked by biden in 2025—trump has since reversed his stance, now endorsing a revised “planned partnership” between u.s. steel and nippon steel. his proposed conditions, including a u.s. ceo, a majority-american board, and a “golden share” for government oversight, are political concessions rather than structural changes to the deal. 

 the united steelworkers union continues to oppose the acquisition, citing national security risks and nippon’s history of unfair trade practices. the deal remains under national security review and faces mounting pressure from both political leaders and labor groups. 

 this artwork reimagines beeple’s everyday piece, prompt engineered nature, by replacing its central figure with the iconic anime mecha gundam—a deliberate nod to japanese cultural and industrial identity. rendered in a red-and-white palette evocative of the japanese flag, the gundam’s steel-clad form metaphorically represents nippon steel. 

 hovering just above its outstretched hand, the uss logo signifies the symbolic acquisition of u.s. steel, transforming the scene into a commentary on global power and cultural assertion—one that captures a hypocritical and ironic moment in trump’s second term as president to make america great again...? collector's caution:

 depending on your location, experiences may vary. for americans, you are living in an unprecedented time where holding a progressive viewpoint—and exercising the freedom of creativity and speech—can lead to silencing, harassment, or even violations of civil rights. by owning this piece of artwork, you acknowledge and accept these risks. may your bravery, courage, and patriotism serve as your strength—and as a beacon of hope to others. only time will tell.