By Donna Reuss
Alexandria, VA – A quarter-century has passed since the attacks of September 11, 2001. For many, time has softened the acute emotions of the events. Now, as I reflect on that day, I ponder the spirit of our Nation in the aftermath of that horrific tragedy. Responsibility for the attacks did foment anger and suspicion towards various communities. But in general, US flags flew everywhere as Americans bonded with a sense of unity across our country. Was this feeling nationalism? Patriotism? To me, it was something deeper.
In the preamble to the constitution of The American Legion, members pledge “to foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism.” World War I veterans included that purpose in the Legion’s foundational document based on their wartime experiences with the large percentage of conscripted immigrants and undereducated troops. They sought to enhance public understanding and appreciation of the American identity by promoting patriotism, democracy, and freedom through complete adherence to US values.
But what is Americanism? The answer can be complex, as different perspectives, meanings, or experiences complicate the definition process.
Americanism is not simply a culture. It is a way of life, a national character. Based in the assertion that all men are created equal and have a right to be free to pursue their individual happiness, Americanism recognizes and celebrates that freedom and the individualism of US citizens. It is more than patriotism, which emphasizes love for and pride in one’s country. And unlike nationalism, which strongly advocates for national interests, though often with a political focus, it is not predicated on one’s place of birth.
The concept of Americanism developed as the first European settlers moved to North America. Many believed that the morals and democratic principles of this new country, eventually outlined in the Declaration of Independence, presented seemingly unlimited opportunities and possibilities. They saw America as a “beacon of hope” to the world, which should serve as an example to others.
President Theodore Roosevelt is among those who promoted an American identity built on shared civic values, writing: “Americanism is a question of spirit, conviction, and purpose, not of creed or birthplace.” Anyone who accepted US values could become an American. He encouraged immigrants to assimilate into the American way of life, arguing against what he called “hyphenated-Americanism.” Citizens must be loyal solely to the United States and democracy. During the Cold War, a strong sense of Americanism was seen as a safeguard against the evils of Communism.
Americanism also can have negative implications. “Manifest Destiny” forced American values onto native peoples during westward expansion. Organizations such as the Ku Klux Klan claimed to embrace Americanism, but used it as a tool for exclusionary ideologies. Some consider global spread of American values as US imperialism. Today, Americanism is characterized by our political Left as progressivism, while by the Right as social conservatism.
Debates on the meaning of Americanism continue. But the common thread is that it is a concept unique to the United States, what Ayn Rand referred to as the “American sense of life.” Other countries may identify themselves by their culture, religious beliefs, or ethnicity. Unlike America, none has a collective identity, shaped by an ideology that defines its way of life and national moral character.
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If you are a veteran or know a veteran or family member who needs help, go to Virginia Board Veterans Services at www.dvs.virginia.gov/dvs; or contact American Legion Post 24 Veteran Service Officer at [email protected]. For crisis intervention and suicide prevention, dial 988 and Press 1, or text 838255 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
