Member-only story

The Contested History of American Patriotism: American Ways

Charles Dickens

·17.3k Followers· Follow

Published in Of Thee I Sing: The Contested History Of American Patriotism (American Ways)

5 min read

543 View Claps

81 Respond

Save

Listen

Patriotism is a complex and contested concept with a long and varied history in the United States. There is no single definition of patriotism, and its meaning has changed over time. However, some common themes have emerged throughout American history, including love of country, willingness to sacrifice for the common good, and a belief in American exceptionalism.

Of Thee I Sing: The Contested History of American Patriotism (American Ways)

by Ben Railton

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	207 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

The American Revolution

The American Revolution was a watershed moment in the history of American patriotism. The colonists who fought for independence from Great Britain were motivated by a deep love of their country and a belief that they were fighting for a just cause. The Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, is a powerful expression of American patriotism. It declares that all men are created equal and that they have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The American Revolution also saw the birth of many of the symbols of American patriotism that are still used today. The American flag, for example, was first flown in 1777. The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892. And the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," was written in 1814.

The Civil War

The Civil War was a major test of American patriotism. The war was fought between the Union and the Confederacy, and both sides believed that they were fighting for a just cause. The Union soldiers fought to preserve the Union, while the Confederate soldiers fought for the right to self-determination. The war was a bloody and divisive conflict, but it ultimately ended with the Union victory.

The Civil War also saw the emergence of new forms of patriotism. For example, many women volunteered their time to help the war effort. And many African Americans fought for the Union, despite the fact that they were not yet full citizens.

The 20th Century

The 20th century was a time of great change and upheaval in the United States. The country fought two world wars, and it experienced the Great Depression and the Civil Rights Movement. These events tested the patriotism of Americans in new ways.

In the aftermath of World War II, there was a surge of patriotism in the United States. This was due in part to the country's victory in the war and its new role as a global superpower. However, the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal eroded some of this patriotism.

The Civil Rights Movement also challenged traditional notions of American patriotism. Many African Americans felt that they were not treated as equal citizens, and they demanded change. The movement led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These laws helped to make the United States a more just and equitable society.

The 21st Century

The 21st century has been a time of both challenge and opportunity for the United States. The country has fought the War on Terror, and it has experienced the Great Recession. However, it has also made progress on issues such as climate change and healthcare.

Patriotism in the 21st century is as complex and contested as it has ever been. There is no single definition of patriotism, and its meaning continues to change. However, some common themes have emerged, including a belief in American exceptionalism, a willingness to sacrifice for the common good, and a commitment to social justice.

Of Thee I Sing: The Contested History of American Patriotism (American Ways)

by Ben Railton

4 out of 5