By Theresa DeRoberts.

This month’s contribution to the topic of Americanism is dedicated to  an illusive source of pride in the history of the United States:  the very special and remarkable sense of nationalism that was shared among Americans.  No matter the endeavor or challenge: a war, a depression, a crisis, a break-through, America would prevail because her citizens believed themselves to be blessedly and uniquely American. In preparation, I sought a more formal definition, with the expectation of capturing and conveying a universally understood meaning of “nationalism,” and at the same time highlighting the significance of nationalism in the American identity. According to most standard dictionaries, the definition of “nationalism” includes language that reads: a feeling that people have of being loyal to and proud of their country often with the belief that it is better and more important than other countries. In short, it is synonymous with patriotism. A traditional sense of nationalism in America would constitute a pride in the United States, believing her success is due to her distinguished approach to government, religion, and property.

There was a time in America when such a belief was encouraged and cultivated. It created a focal point for unity and provided common ground between established Americans and new immigrants. There was a time when groups of people came to the United States believing in the protections and principles provided by a particularly American system of law and economics. Unfortunately, there are other definitions available that reflect the modern approach to teaching American history that over-politicizes and loads the meaning of nationalism. It is to be understood strictly analogous to chauvinism or extreme
patriotism, and constitutes a “policy of asserting the interests of one’s own nation viewed as separate from the interests of other nations or the common interests of all nations.” (Dictionary.com) In essence, nationalism is the new negative, the instrument of American dominance.The United States was founded on a very concerted effort to establishing a new nation with separate interests. And our Founding Fathers acted within their powers to leave behind practices and laws they deemed archaic and prohibitive, and start afresh. America has, since the
beginning, been separate, and special, and different.

We owe it to our youth to teach them the value of nationalism and continue to include in their education the history of reasons for which America remains exceptional.