national characteristics, american

Rogers Smith has long argued for the importance of "stories of peoplehood" in constituting political communities. By enabling a people to tell others and themselves who they are, such stories establish the people's identity and values and guide its actions. They can promote national unity and unity of groups within and across nations. Smith argues that nationalist populists have done a better job than liberals in providing stories of peoplehood that advance their worldview: the nation as ethnically defined, threatened by enemies, and blameless for its troubles, which come from its victimization by malign elites and foreigners. Liberals need to offer their own stories expressing more inclusive values. Analyzing three liberal stories of peoplehood--those of John Dewey, Barack Obama, and Abraham Lincoln--Smith argues that all have value and all are needed, though he sees Lincoln's, based on the "Declaration of Independence," as the most promising.

Contains narratives and activities, including crosswords, mapping, and comprehension questions, that teach students in fourth through eighth grade about "The Star-Spangled Banner.".

"What does it take to be a good American? And who gets to decide? Journalist Jess McHugh examines thirteen seemingly innocuous, mega-bestselling reference books, guidebooks, and self-help books that have become blueprints for core American values and shaped our national story"--.

Examines turning points in American history and explores contemporary American politics and life.

Many of us like to think of the United States as a nation of immigrants. We pride ourselves on our history of welcoming foreigners and believe this sets our nation apart from every other. But the phrase 'a nation of immigrants' only dates from the mid-twentieth century, and has served to paper over a much darker history of hatred of -- and violence against -- foreigners arriving on our shores.

". . . [television journalist Jorge Ramos] . . . examine[s] what it means to be a Latino immigrant, or just an immigrant, in . . . America [and] us[es] . . . research and statistics . . . [and] his own personal experience [to] show . . . the changing face of America while also trying to find an explanation for why he, and millions of others, still feel like strangers in [the United States]"--Amazon.

"[In this graphic adaptation, Dan Rather,] the venerated television journalist, celebrates our shared values, reminds us of what matters most in our great country, and shows us what patriotism looks like"--Provided by publisher.

The author traces the history of the phrases "American dream" and "America first" and what each represents in American history.

Explores the history of American exceptionalism.

Argues that Americans are ruled by extravagent expectations which has led to the development of what the author calls illusions, or pseudo-events, such as press conferences and presidential debates which are staged specifically to be reported.