Patriots paved the way for an independent country in the American Revolution, but recently patriotism in America has become a divisive subject.
With the 2024 presidential election between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, political tensions between the Democratic and Republican Parties have risen even higher. Politically passionate people have taken to social media to express their opinions on the upcoming election as well as their general political beliefs.
A recurring theme in the media today is the link between patriotism and conservatism. According to Megan Brenan from “Gallup,” Republicans generally say they have more pride to be American than Democrats or Independents do. The Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection was an example of patriotic extremists, with Trump even going as far as referring to them as patriots, according to Lisa Mascaro from “The Associated Press.” Extremists like those who stormed the Capitol and represented the Republican party have changed the view of the word “patriot” for many Americans. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, patriot is defined as; “one who loves and supports his or her country”. Attacking one’s capitol and injuring as well as killing fellow Americans shows the exact opposite of patriotic values.
This is where the line between modern-day patriotism and nationalism becomes blurred. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines nationalism as; “an ideology that elevates one nation or nationality above all others and that places primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interests as opposed to those of other nations, nationalities, or supranational groups.” While these “patriots” still have some patriotic values such as claiming to like the United States, they also show nationalism through putting their beliefs above others’ safety.
In 2024, extremists have shown up on both sides of the party spectrum. Especially on social media, Republicans are portrayed as loving the U.S. and Democrats are illustrated as hating the U.S. This tactic has further divided the two parties and has put a strain on American politics. Love for one’s country and the want to improve it can coexist, but many people choose to be one or the other. This is one of the main reasons that our country and political parties struggle with unity. While someone can think that the United States is a great country, why does that mean they can’t also want to improve it? That is what patriotism should be rather than just saying that the United States is the best country, as the “best” is subjective anyway. Patriotism is an ideal that should inspire unity and a love for our country, and a desire to change it for the better.
