[From Guest Writer #8 in our annual summer series…]
I am from a very large family of people that was not born in the United States of America. With me there is a kinship and a bond that I feel towards my family and its name. Although there are some aspects of mine as well as all other families that are not good, my loyalty is still to them — very much as that feeling to my nuclear and extended family, I have the same affection for my American family as a nation. I have a similar love for the country where I was born, but this is about the uniqueness of American Patriotism. The American patriotism is a unique force, shaped by the nation’s diverse history, ideals, and challenges. Since the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to the present day, the spirit of the USA has been defined by a commitment to freedom, equality, and continued opportunity. Indulge me as we explore the unique elements of American patriotism.
To do justice to this point of our Patriotism we must consider all the positive and some very negative aspects, such as slavery and how we treated Native Americans. Also in that consideration of negative things must be how we treated our female population.
The American Revolution laid the foundation for a nation committed to liberty and democracy. As imperfect as we are, the Declaration of Independence, with its assertions that “all men are created equal, and the pursuit of happiness” sent a powerful message to the colonizers and those who were being colonized to rise up to their potential. The document became a symbol of the nation’s central values and ideals. It has inspired generations to strive toward an ideal that, while not always achieved, remains a guiding light. I believe one writer said these are “noble” concepts. The word ”men” here is not just referring to the male gender but to both men and women under God’s watchful eyes. Admittedly, this has not always been the practice shown to those who were not males of European descent. The pursuit of happiness is unique in any document across the world. It is not to say that every day is 24 hours at DisneyWorld; rather it gives everyone that “by the sweat of their own brows” they can help themselves and achieve things for self, their families and communities.
Our American history is marked by significant scars. Some of those scars still cast a shadow as we see today. Those scars include slavery and the battle against it. The U.S. Civil War between the Union States and the Confederate States was a major factor in the abolition of slavery. The subsequent Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 and the passage of the 13th Amendment in 1865 officially closed chattel slavery in the USA. As we know, the legal change still today in 2024 cannot alter the hearts of those who will not accept the equality of race. This major triumph over one of the darkest chapters in American history is a testament to the nation’s capacity for self-correction and moral progress.
In the true sense of the word Patriotism, it is rooted in the Latin word for father. Society has broken down words in male or female qualities. So Patriotism implies loyalty to one’s father land. But it really is non-gender in its meaning here. So it refers to both the Fatherland and the Motherland. Just as how the word “mankind” refers to all humanity. So because it should mean both male and female, why were women given a sub role in society? This brought about the fight for women’s suffrage culminated in the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote in elections with all the same rights and privileges as their male counterparts. This milestone was achieved through many years of activism, marches and protests. This represented a critical expansion of our democratic (small d) principles. The women’s suffrages are a huge part of testaments to the nation’s ability to evolve and embrace inclusivity.
American patriotism is also closely tied to a tradition of innovation and hard work. From the Industrial Revolution to the digital age, American ingenuity has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. The nation’s work ethic, characterized by determination and resilience, has driven progress and contributed to global advancements.
Technological innovations, such as the development of the internet and space exploration, have not only shaped the modern world but also reinforced a sense of national pride. Organizations such as NASA, Apple Computer, Microsoft, Google and many others add to our achievements as a nation. Our highway system and infrastructure is a model for the world to emulate. Our Entertainment industry’s leaders in Hollywood also highlight America’s role as a leader in technological advancement and a hub of creativity as well.
We in The United States are often referred to as a “melting pot,” a nation enriched by the contributions of various cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds. My family and I both gained and contributed to this great melting pot as have others and feel the same Patriotic swells when the National Anthem is played or America the Beautiful and other songs and hymns like those. We have been woven into the fabric. This diversity is a cornerstone of American identity and a source of strength. Immigrants from around the world have brought unique perspectives, skills, and traditions, enhancing the culture of our nation.
The Statue of Liberty that stands in NYC Harbor, a gift from France in the 19th century to the U.S.A., stands as a symbol of welcome and hope for many immigrants such as myself. Inscribed with a great message it tells of the great opportunity that defines America. It is the reason people still come and try to move here in all manner. This statue is not only a monument to freedom but also tells of the diverse contributions that have shaped us as a nation.
While the United States has faced significant challenges, including systemic racism and inequality, the nation’s commitment to progress and justice remains steadfast. Movements such as the Civil Rights Movement inspired by people such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. and other recent social justice initiatives demonstrate a continuous effort to address past injustices and strive for a more equitable society. Those who know it will never be perfect and are not deterred from continuing to always be better.
American patriotism is not merely about flying the Star Spangled Banner flag on days like July 4th, but while celebrating achievements we recognize our shortcomings and working towards a better future. This resilience and dedication to improvement and continuing with the idea of the pursuit of happiness are some of the things that I believe make American patriotism unique. As the nation moves forward, the spirit of American patriotism remains a guiding force, inspiring citizens to uphold the values of liberty, equality, and justice for all.
Respectfully…
DG