Patriotism: The True Strength Of America

“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America” (Bill Clinton). Although a hopeful statement, America currently finds itself divided as a nation in political turmoil where obstacles ahead feel insurmountable. During times like these, this quote can have little relevance, as many Americans see so much wrong with their country, it can be difficult to rediscover what makes America right. In times when the country feels lost or off track, the American people can look back to the previous strengths of their nation, and the values that made their country “right” to begin with. The true strength of America lies in its original values which exist within American Literature dating back to the country’s founding,

During the Farewell Address of president Ronald Reagan, he focuses on devotion to America when proclaiming, “We were taught, very directly, what it means to be an American. And we absorbed, almost in the air, a love of country and an appreciation of its institutions” (Reagan). The importance of pride in America makes itself evident in this quote, as Ronald Reagan displays that Americans possess a love of country and appreciation of its institutions. Reagan argues that patriotism doesn’t solely require a passion for America, but it includes respecting the institutions and principles America stands for. In addition, Lee Greenwood’s song God Bless the U.S.A perfectly captures the allegiance exhibited within the country, when it recites, “There’s pride in every American heart/ And it’s time we stand and say/ I’m proud to be an American/ Where at least I know I’m free” (Greenwood). With a national sense of pride, Americans believe that anything can be achieved. Patriotism acts as America’s heartbeat, and without it the country falters. Similarly, Daniel Webster discusses national honor in his dedication of the Bunker Hill Monument, stating, “In a day of extraordinary prosperity and happiness, of high national honor, distinction, and power, we are brought together, in this place, by our love of country” (Webster). Patriotism serves as a key that can rediscover unity in the nation, bringing back national honor and power. Webster shows that a love of country has the power to bring people together, making the country stronger by putting its interests ahead of their own. The themes of patriotism in American Literature show that America prospers when members of society have a love and appreciation for the place they live and for its core