American Patriotism As A Defining Trait Of American Culture

All across America, red, white, and blue flags are prominently flying in front of many buildings and homes; in schools, students start their day pledging allegiance to the flag. The United States uniquely treats its flag as a national treasure because it signifies its people’s strong loyalty and pride for the country. The American flag represents the true meaning of American culture. Similarly, American patriotism is a distinctive characteristic of American culture. Unlike other countries’ nationalism, patriotism is the feeling of devotion and allegiance to one’s country, rather than loyalty to a specific ethnicity. In the United States, patriotism is rooted in community, shared values, and ambition, which unifies all of its citizens under a common culture. While some describe America by its faults, in truth, American culture is defined by its unique patriotism which unifies all Americans.Although

Americans are separated by race, social issues and political views, the notion of togetherness found in America creates a sense of community among all. At the start of the nation, the people were divided by the same problems. Yet, the same divided people were always united by their shared devotion to America. Under patriotism, people work not for oneself, but for the advantage of everyone, regardless of their background. In interviews conducted by the Washington Post, fifty-nine out of one-hundred-and-two people answered community when asked what defines Americans. Furthermore, Erma Bailey, an interviewee, stated Americans can find comfort with surrounding people because they have respect for each other’s differences while embracing their likeness. America’s patriotic community values diversity in all aspects, allowing people of different ethnical backgrounds, or differing views, to unite under a collective American culture. The unification of people in America allows for a common culture to unite Americans.

Moreover, America’s community is recognizable in historical moments during times of hardship and need. Patriotism promotes service, such as reaching out to help others in times of need. Patriotic citizens have the motivation to improve the well-being of the community and to work together for the greater benefit of all. In multiple examples, Americans are seen unifying after a disaster. This is observed after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack, in which Americans, disregarding dividing views, collectively rebuilt a devastated country after a crisis. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported that the number of blood donations after September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks were 2.5 times greater than the previous weeks of 2000. In all parts of the country, strangers were able to connect to help their country. American culture is having the ability to be a strong community, which brings every citizen, despite their similarities or differences. In America, people from all situations are linked under patriotism. A

merican culture is supported by a shared belief in equality, freedom, and justice. These values shaped the character of the nation and are important aspects of American democracy. Formed by the visions of the Founding Fathers and reinforced by history, these cultural values are what differentiate and impact America. One of the United State’s core values is freedom. Freedom caused the formation of America and 77% of Americans hold individual freedoms as the United States’ best properties, according to a 2012 USA Today/Gallup poll. Freedom is an important fundamental right, one which built America’s constitution and amendments. U-M Institute for Social Research (ISR): ‘More than 90 percent of those surveyed agreed that all people deserve equal opportunities in life,’. Specifically, freedom of speech is fundamental to American culture. 73% of pollers from Rasmussen Reports agree with the famous quote by the enlightenment philosopher, Voltaire: “I disapprove of what you say but will defend to the death your right to say it.” Lastly, a thing that defines American culture and patriotism is the ambitious nature of its people. The “American Dream,” as it is commonly called, is a goal for those with patriotism. It was enabled by our Constitution and the founding principles of the nation.