It’s crucial to understand the beginnings of American Exceptionalism by recognizing the
radical ideas in the Declaration of Independence. The ideas brought forth by the Founding
Fathers, such as self-government, freedom, and inalienable rights were all considered unlikely to
work. The founders had faith in the system they created, with the hopes that future generations
would carry on their legacy of freedom, and a beacon of hope for the world.
Pre-America, there were ideas and talk of freedom and democracy held together by the
nation’s citizens. We see this in recorded history during the time of Rome and Greece, but they
were still under rule of the oligarchy. Not until the founders enacted a true democracy did, we
see freedom become thoroughly practiced. Recognizing the citizen as sovereign rather than the
government helps the argument for America’s exceptionalism.
Human equality and god given rights were other topics mentioned by the course authors
and speakers that in relation to American exceptionalism. The human equality has been admired
by and sought after by many citizens of foreign nations. They flock to America each year with
the hopes of being treated equally, given the chance of making more of themselves. The rights
given to us by God, regardless of what God you may believe in are undeniable. The influence the
Ten Commandments and Christianity had on the founders is evident in our documents and
country’s foundation.
Based up on my experience growing up in America, I find the definition of American
Exceptionalism to be appropriate. There are principles that are interwoven into the very fabric of
America that makes it exceptional. Like the course authors and speakers pointed out, the
inalienable rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Living in America most of its
citizens are protected from the cruelty, and harsh realities of the outside world. Many are blind
and naïve to the sacrifices men and women have made to protect our freedoms.
Joining the military was an eye opener for me, being that I was forced to move away
from the comforts of small-town America. Being subjected firsthand to the injustices of the
world made me realize how exceptional America really is. In no way is that to say America is
perfect, plenty of mistakes have been made. What truly separates us from the world is our
commitment to the individual’s growth and development, and our willingness to protect that with
our very lives.
What really stands out to me in my experience is how there are many around the world
who strive to be just like America. Not so much the governments, but the ordinary people are the
ones who aspire to be Americans the most. Our freedoms and way of life truly are an inspiration
to the oppressed and underprivileged.
Kaleb,
I enjoyed reading you post and share in your statement in how serving in the military can
open one’s eyes to see the real beauty of Americas Exceptionalism. I also thank you for your
service and the sacrifice you make each day that comes with the uniform.
Good point in mentioning the founders had faith in the system that they were attempting
to create. I believe evidence that supports they had faith is shown in the Declaration of
Independence with the last half of the last sentence states, “with a firm reliance on the protection
of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred
Honor” (Declaration of Independence). This sentence gives us a picture of the troubled road that
laid ahead and that the Founding Fathers had a firm grip on faith to help them move forward.
Agreed that citizens being sovereign rather than government helps in showing Americas
exceptionalism. It is exceptional because this belief that the people can control a government
went against the norm that had been in place for years. When government had power over the
citizens then tyranny existed. America became the exception to that because power resided in the
citizens. Where we must be careful from this day and into the future is in realize how fragile a
government ran by the citizens is. It is only strong by a moral and just people. Our government is
ultimately a reflection of our morals and our values. This is why Metaxas says that our system
“would require the people’s attention in a way that no other government would” (Metaxas, 2017,
9). No other government did the citizens have this responsibility of freedom they were just
subjects to the government.
Reference:
“Declaration of Independence: A Transcription.” 2020. National Archives and Records
Administration. National Archives and Records Administration. Accessed March 24.
https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript.
Metaxas, Eric. 2017. If You Can Keep It: the Forgotten Promise of American Liberty. New York:
Penguin Books.
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