The United States’ national creed, “E Pluribus Unum,” encapsulates the stories we learn at an early age, or (if still possible) upon becoming citizens.
“One of many” has become a myth that is told as our story. It has now become an ideological sleight of hand, the rhetorical equivalent of an “emperor without clothes.”
Selected by Congress as the national symbol of the United States in 1782, “E Pluribus Unum” originally emphasized: multiple Allowing the diverse voices of the American people to be represented. Over time, the focus has shifted from celebrating the “many” to enforcing the “one,” often suppressing dissent and undermining others (Native Americans, enslaved Africans, and waves of immigrants) served as a patriotic basis for alienating those who were expected to assimilate and include them. Turn their “many” into an existing “one.”
GK Chesterton was an influential British writer and Catholic convert known for his wit and variety of works. One of his most memorable observations was that What I saw in America (1922), where he described the United States as “a nation with the soul of the church,” capturing its unique foundation in ideals rather than ethnic or historical ties, a sentiment that many still share today. is holding. This view was already expressed darkly in the influential rallying cries of the 1850s Party of the Knower: “Faith and State,” “America for the Americans!” and “No Guard for Non-Americans!” has been discovered, and it has disturbing repercussions in our time. On the resurgence of xenophobia and xenophobia: “History may not repeat itself, but it rhymes.”
Despite its rapid decline during the turmoil of the mid-19th century, the appeal of Know Nothings surfaced repeatedly throughout American history. Today’s “America First” fireworks are the latest example of that. The recent escalation of xenophobia, fueled by the rise of Christian nationalism and populist movements, highlights the vulnerability of democratic institutions to fantasies of authoritarian masculinity. Just as the left once admired Cuba, the new right admires Hungary and Viktor Orbán. Modern-day echoes of the Party of Know-Nothing are vitriolic about America’s corrupt morals, xenophobic crusades against immigrants, and self-righteous proclamations pitting so-called “real Americans” against “foreign” infiltrators. Roaring through abusive language.
These dangerous times will be resolved sooner or later. The key question is how to manage the damage they continue to inflict before retreating. Nathaniel Hawthorne long ago warned against the illusion of a “heavenly railroad” that recklessly abandons the hard truths of earth for the empty allure of the rewards of justice.
Among his influential works habits of mindHistorical sociologist Robert Bellah points out that there are three elements to American history. individualism—It emphasizes individual freedom, independence, and achievement, and is currently associated with the Republican Party. communitarianism—focus He is now aligned with the Democratic Party on the common good, social responsibility, and the importance of community. and Biblical republicanismIt draws on religious traditions and emphasizes civic virtue, public service, and the pursuit of justice, but is largely forgotten except as a pious denunciation. Bellah argued that a healthy society requires a balance between these competing impulses.
Legendary American historian and foreigner Alexis de Tocqueville did not use the term “biblical republicanism,” but his view was that: american democracy I strongly resonate with that concept. Not Chesterton’s “church” or forced obedience; A Republic of Moral Diversity, United by a Citizens Union that Respects Differences.
Although unlikely in the current political climate, a reinterpretation of “E Pluribus Unum” would restore its original meaning, embrace diversity and multiple perspectives, and acknowledge the “many” rather than the homogeneous “one.” It will happen.
The election of Thomas Jefferson over John Adams marked the first peaceful transfer of contested democratic power. After this bitter conflict, also known as the “Revolution of 1800,” Jefferson delivered his inaugural address, which became a model for reconciliation in American politics at a critical time for democracy. His conciliatory tone surprised many Federalists, who had expected resentment to continue after such a contentious election. At the center of his speech, Jefferson declared:
“For the will of the majority to be legitimate, it must be rational. Let us restore harmony and love to society. Without them, freedom and life lose meaning. Religious intolerance We have little to gain if we tolerate political intolerance that can be equally tyrannical and bloody even if we end it.”
”If we stray from these principles in a moment of error or alarm, let us hasten to retrace our steps and restore the path that leads to peace, freedom, and security. ”
notes and reading
[*] thomas jefferson, inaugural speech (Summary) – A summary, a more complete excerpt, or an entire document. Also see: Snitch #155 – For more commentary on Jefferson, see “The Fate of the Union Hides in the Balance.” (Personal).
“I don’t know anything.” – In the 1850s, the Know Nothing Party, or American Party, reached its peak with over 100 members, eight governors, control of several state legislatures, and numerous local officials . They pushed for the deportation of foreign beggars and criminals, a 21-year naturalization period, compulsory Bible reading in schools, and the banishment of Catholics from public office. Their vision emphasized temperance, Protestantism, self-reliance, and prioritizing American citizenship and work ethics as core values. – smithsonian magazine (January 26, 2017).
GK Chesterton In his book, he called America “a nation with the soul of the church.” What I saw in Americathe end of the first chapter, “What is America?”
Nathaniel Hawthorne – “The Celestial Railroad” (1843) is an allegorical satire inspired by the novels of John Bunyan. Pilgrim’s Progressa short story included in Hawthorne’s collection.
robert berra – Habits of Mind with a New Preface: Individualism and Commitment in American Life (2007). Bellah is internationally known for his research in the sociology of religion.
alexis de tocqueville – American Democracy, Volume 2 (1840, 1990).
> Confusion: National Mythology and America’s Battle – Richard Slotkin (2024). “The flag is blooming right now where few other flowers are blooming. I am passionate about understanding what it means to love my country.” – Adrienne Rich, “One Night on Monterey Bay, This Century’s Frozen Death” (Epigraph) – Slotkin is Professor Emeritus of Anglo-American Studies at Wesleyan University.
“God, who saved us our weary years…” – Martin Luther King Day (January 20, 2025).
Source: 2 + 2 = 5 – williamgreen.substack.com
