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A spirit that is not afraid

COLUMN: Global perceptions of the United States

The United States of America has long been a bastion of liberty to the nations of the world.

Throughout the history of the U.S., there have been times of progress, times of tragedy and times of triumph.

In establishing ourselves as a global superpower, we have successfully inspired nations all over the world to adopt democratic policies that mirror our own.

Our inspiration has led to the physical and moral well-being of billions worldwide.

We have enabled the equal rights of all races and religious groups, as well as both genders.

This is due to our unique and enduring constitution that has created a system that still leaves political theorists all over the world enamored.

Our constitution is the cornerstone of what has now come to be known as the American dream.

It allows citizens to worship in the way they please, it allows people to speak in any way they choose and it allows people to be free from government overreach.

Americans of all backgrounds have taken enormous pride in this idea, but over the course of the past 50 years, some Americans have begun to slander America’s heritage, proclaiming that we were founded on racism, that we have diluted other nation’s cultures and that we have contributed to vast inequality.

Some celebrities have begun taking pride in their hatred for America.

Ariana Grande sums up many actors’ and musicians’ thoughts on America with her famous quote, “I hate America. I hate Americans.”

Johnny Depp infamously stated that “America is dumb.”

These celebrities, which are idolized by many, have spread this hatred to many of their followers, who, in turn, repeat the hatred they hear.

Some foreign actors have chimed in, claiming that America embodies arrogance and greed.

As a result, Americans, 64 percent of which have never left the country, have begun to feel alienated and hated by the rest of the world.

Many leftists claim that America is “arrogant” and “dumb” without even acknowledging the American exceptionalism recognized worldwide.

America’s contributions to the world consist of more than just inspiration to other nations.

American culture is recognized and glorified by the populations of all developed countries. American music, movies, even historical culture are celebrated by billions of people world-wide.

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America is also the economic cornerstone of the world. Business people from every stock exchange recognize the sheer mass and importance of the NASDAQ and New York Stock Exchange.

Many important technological advances are easily attributed to American companies.

American technology is constantly revolutionizing the way the world operates.

America has also created opportunities for individuals from other nations to come and express their thoughts and ideas and progress the world as a whole.

Other nations recognize all of these contributions the United States has made to the world.

Michael Caine, famed British author and actor, claimed, “I’m one of the most pro-American foreigners I know. I love America and Americans.”

From Berlin to Budapest, statues of American generals and presidents can be found in city squares.

The Czech Republic even has an annual parade in the city of Pilsen to celebrate the American liberation of the country in 1945.

Many American leftists refuse to admit that this American exceptionalism existed in the first place, and they also attest that the rest of the world feels the same way.

However, leaders that admire American principles of classical liberalism are making a come-back after making the realization that leftist ideologies inhibit true progression.

After nations in Europe were damaged from the overwhelming amounts of refugees, which the leftist EU commanded them to take in, they realized that the modern left does not hold the answer.

Countries that face the direst consequences of the refugee crisis have already turned to conservative politics.

They are now reaping the rewards of seemingly hard decisions. Among these are Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and now Austria. Students inspired by American democracy are now causing friction through peaceful protests between themselves and the heavily Chinese-influenced establishment.

This, among other cultural revolutions, are inspiring nations all over Asia to step back from their totalitarian regimes and embrace the American way.

All of these micro-revolutions, and more, can be attributed to the influence of the American system’s enduring ingenuity.

Contrary to the narrative put forward by mainstream media and many leftists, the United States is not looked down upon by the rest of the world.

The recent upset in our presidential election is not some isolated occurrence abhorred by every educated individual outside of our borders.

The population of the U.S., as well as populations abroad, have grown sick and tired of their own liberties and rights being infringed upon by over-reaching, leftist governments.

America’s reputation is not marred by one or even two elections.

President Barack Obama did not ruin America’s reputation, and neither will President Donald Trump.

However, many governments are returning to more conservative political policies in order to begin healing the damage done by border-line socialist leaders, and this revolution is led by the United States of America.

The views expressed in columns do not reflect the opinion of The Auburn Plainsman.


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