1. It is politically incorrect to study ancient history, especially of civilizations that were deficient by 21st century standards. Since most dumb ideas have been tried previously, if politicians studied history they would have to give up all their favorite proposals and would be truely bored, and would have to come up with no, and probably worse, dumb ideas.
2. However not overreacting to a mob has much that can be said for it. What if, on Jan. 6, the Capitol Police and National Guard and opened fire and killed a few dozen unarmed, but rioting, protesters? Past examples of excessive force have often backfired (e.g. Boston 1770, Amritsar 1919, St. Petersburg 1905). If a mob is angry, one should find a way to address their grievances without making matter worse.