Soon Donald Trump will take power, and execute a well-laid plan that will pardon January 6th convicts, begin a mass deportation, start obliterating the US civil service, impose steep tariffs, and fire senior military officers whom he views as insufficiently loyal.
This is why I struggle with the narrative of America being this great, God inspired nation and the “this is not who we are” crowd. Yes, I understand the unique forming of the United States, I do. But in many ways, the disdain for other, the violence towards others, the hypocritical rhetoric, the arrogance of the white, European lineage, the election of Trump is who we are.
If Trump goes forward with these archaic policies, if his appointments are confirmed, then (my opinion) we are a nation of cowards. We are a nation who has not progressed in our thinking or actions, our tolerance of other and most certainly not a Christian nation. Yes we pound our chest, raise a flag, sing a song and watch jets fly over and say look at us, how great we are. Most of it is bullshit. It is a mirage, hiding a darkness of spirit, of cowardice, violence that is embedded within us.
Will it ever change? Not in my lifetime. Is it unique to America, no and yes. Perhaps it is simply the nature of man.
I remember listening to discussions on the challenges we face as a country hearing statements that “this is not who we are”. I remember thinking, maybe this “is” who we are. After this election, I think there’s no longer a question.
Your suggestion that the belated fulfillment of obligations to Native Americans outlined in treaties should be supported by the Democratic party is an outstanding idea and an excellent example of how understanding our past can lead us to take the actions necessary to make a stronger, more united, and prouder nation.
Until we educate, we are The United States of amnesia. “The Fat Takers, America’s hangovers!” Oh Steve, you have such a bold vision for our future and your vivid imagination has perfectly captured our present day reality. As you described our ancestral past, the traumas of violent takeovers have hung over us and captured our ability to truly be a free nation. We have hurt indigenous peoples in ways that are unimaginable, and until (with humility as you voice) we heal from that darkness how can we honestly move forward. Thank you for your wise and passionate words and leadership for which we desperately need to inspire us and forge ahead.
My wife is born and raised in Montana. The residual racism toward native Americans that I run into there, now in 2024, is as nasty and barely below the surface as the racism I grew up feeling and hearing outside Atlanta. Thank you, Steve, for reminding us of the constance of our journey.
I appreciate your grounding in American history. I am thankful for the public school teachers I had in New Jersey who provided a good grounding for myself. Despite what the miscreants on the Right have long said, these public school teachers were educators of the first rank.
Now as I read your statement about the misfits soon to take over, my belief system in America has been permanently shattered. What is this now, three elections in a row? We’re a Banana Republic, just larger than most and filled with more bananas.
I would appreciate knowing what you think we should think about precisely and what you think we should plan. I envision working on building civil society in my community, and my husband and I are diversifying our portfolios and getting vaccinated before a former heroin addict tells us what we can or cannot get shot into our veins by a healthcare professional.
I think we should stock up on lots of basic, non-perishable foods, canned goods, & hygiene supplies. If DT does start a true trade war with his tariffs, some things could become scarce.
I absolutely worry about the fact that so many of our medications are made in China & India. What happens if we piss them off enough that they declare a moratorium on shipping to the US?
Can you exist without your blood pressure or heart failure meds? What about an adult child who depends on antidepressants or antipsychotics to have a normal life? Those are the things I’d be thinking about, the life & death things.
Adding some information you didn't include. Heather Cox Richardson recently wrote a great essay about the Christian Indian boarding schools and the harm that was caused. She also discussed Biden's apology. Too many men are full of hate and want to hurt, dominate and control others.
PM Trudeau does not beg. He does negotiate. Canada will not be cowed by Donald Trump. Will we have to give to diminish the damage sure to be tried by Trump? Yes. But so will Trump have to give. And Mexico too. Again, it’s called negotiation. Trump is a bully. He’s a weak man who’s surrounded himself with henchmen. Most of whom are elected by citizens of States that do business with Canadian provinces. They will be working to diminish the “pain” of the ludicrous idea of “tariffs”.
No one wins in a trade war. At the end of the day each wins and each loses. It’s called “the Art of the deal”. And the “artists” come from all countries.
IDK, Justin looked pretty meek compared to Claudia. He needs to step down and let Freeland in; she means business. Canada though should look to the east and the west (Asia) and say sayonara to the US as much as possible. Just hope I can return to Canada with some retirement $$$ when it becomes clear it's no longer safe. Guessing that could be on Jan 21.
PM Trudeau isn’t weak. Just keeps his strategy close to his chest. Claudia doesn’t know Trump, Justin knows him all too well.
Chrystia is a good Minister. Not the PM, nor ever likely to be.
Perhaps you’ve lived stateside too long.
By all means bring those U.S. retirement $$$ home. Better do it sooner than later as you may not have much left after DJT finishes his scorched earth reign of terror.
BTW, we came home 10 years ago as we could see where the USA was going.
Our U.S.$$$ pensions are great, but taxes on the monthly exchange rate - in our favour - is not much fun. CRA gets 5 digit taxes from us yearly..😤
I’m gonna stay and do what I can. I was born here and I want my children and grandkids to have a chance. In fact, thinking of going silent soon. Everything is about strategy & timing now. Also, please know I am not being critical or judgmental. I only wish you & your family the best. I believe strongly that everyone should do what they believe is best for them and their families and not be chastised for it. We should all be thinking along these lines now. I made my decision years ago.
For our family, it’s about safety and security. For people of colour this is a perilous, frightening time to live in the U.S. - especially in Red States. My daughter and grands are keeping a very low profile. Saying little, always on alert, staying home. They are in Texas. And DJT isn’t even yet inaugurated. This is beyond concerning for us. So much so, we will not go stateside for the foreseeable future. We watch in horror from Canada and hope that there are enough Republicans of goodwill and an ethical backbone to stop the disaster that is coming.
My grandmother lived in three centuries (1899-2001), and fortunately remained very mentally fit until the end. She was also incredibly curious, and she and my grandfather instilled in my Dad a passion for history, which filtered into my generation. Timothy Snyder today wrote history surprises, warns and engages. Thank you, Steve, for showing the historical through lines. And wonderful suggestion to honor the treaties by 2026.
“The French saw the writing on the wall, and sold their possessions in 1803. The US doubled in size in an instant with the Louisiana purchase. It also began 20 years of savage fighting over control of Florida, which was claimed by two powers, the Seminole Tribe and Spain.”
Steve, are you sure the French saw the writing on the wall and sold the Louisiana Purchase to America for that reason?
From my understanding, the French were engaged in many wars between 1792-1803 with the Brits (expensive), as well we as fighting the Haitians during the Haitian Revolution in the late 1790’s and early 1800’s. That said, Napoleon needed to cash; especially since Haiti was a cash cow in the sugarcane trade; which imploded because of the Haitian Revolution.
The two are not mutually exclusive, Robert. Napoleon definitely needed the money, and the sale was possibly not at the highest price he could have obtained in more stable circumstances, but I think the demographic pressure was inevitable.
Agreed, they aren’t mutually exclusive, but the main reason was France was broke, and Napoleon had grand designs for Europe. However, I will concede that maintaining a large colonial empire in North America was not strategically viable, given his grand designs in Europe, and the Haitian Revolution that destroyed France’s cash cow: the sugarcane trade…:)
I agree whole heartedly with your 3 things we must do, especially the last one regarding the medals of honor that were given to the killers at Wounded Knee. As a combat veteran who reveres all who have earned that high honor, I have long felt that the 20 or so, all of whom are long gone, who were given that honor were never deserving of it, that they were given our highest honor desecrates the honor of all who deserved it. We can see the approaching storm, all of the signs of its danger are clear to anyone with eyes or ears. We are in for some terrible times, and many us are bracing themselves for the blows that are sure to come, our hope is that our institutions are stronger than the evil intent behind their attackers. For 248 years they have absorbed all manner of attacks that threatened their existence, and remained standing, the insipid orange turd and all of his lying bluster should be easily outmatched by our inherent strength. You can see he is running out of gas, it’s the reason he has not spoken in public for more than a sentence since before the election. The last time he spoke on camera he was incoherent, and that is what people voted for, the people around him know this, which is why we don’t see him live. I remember hearing that Reagan’s Alzheimer’s was deeply affecting him in the last year of his presidency, Nancy and his staff kept it hidden from the public until after he was gone, I have no doubt that something similar is going on now and we haven’t had the inaugural fiasco yet.
I realize that the American government has traditionally agreed to treaties with our native tribes that, more often than not, were never fulfilled by the government. I did not realize that some promises made are built into the constitution. Where have the Democrats been all this time? As you say, nothing will get done under Dear Leader's administration, but then, considering his "scorched earth" plans for our country, we likely won't have a government that ANY of us will recognize in short order. For all the struggle, pain, losses and triumphs in our short history as a country, it should no longer be a struggle to be decent, forward-thinking and fair. We really could live in something close to a utopia if we, as a people, acted honorably and mindful towards all.
A great post on a topic of great concern and interest. Many wrongs but no sponsor to right the wrongs. Trump will not take up the baton. Biden could by EO.
This is why I struggle with the narrative of America being this great, God inspired nation and the “this is not who we are” crowd. Yes, I understand the unique forming of the United States, I do. But in many ways, the disdain for other, the violence towards others, the hypocritical rhetoric, the arrogance of the white, European lineage, the election of Trump is who we are.
If Trump goes forward with these archaic policies, if his appointments are confirmed, then (my opinion) we are a nation of cowards. We are a nation who has not progressed in our thinking or actions, our tolerance of other and most certainly not a Christian nation. Yes we pound our chest, raise a flag, sing a song and watch jets fly over and say look at us, how great we are. Most of it is bullshit. It is a mirage, hiding a darkness of spirit, of cowardice, violence that is embedded within us.
Will it ever change? Not in my lifetime. Is it unique to America, no and yes. Perhaps it is simply the nature of man.
Thank you, Steve for this history lesson.
I remember listening to discussions on the challenges we face as a country hearing statements that “this is not who we are”. I remember thinking, maybe this “is” who we are. After this election, I think there’s no longer a question.
Hard, hard to come to that conclusion. It is breaking through years and years of dogma. I find it sad.
Painful though it is, facing those truths is always the first step.
Well stated Susan.
Thank you, Justin and yes it is painful. I don’t speak these thoughts much, because… Figured here was a safe place.
Indeed, most of it is bullshit. A great story, though. Apart from all our true “his”story.
Your suggestion that the belated fulfillment of obligations to Native Americans outlined in treaties should be supported by the Democratic party is an outstanding idea and an excellent example of how understanding our past can lead us to take the actions necessary to make a stronger, more united, and prouder nation.
This would be true leadership
Until we educate, we are The United States of amnesia. “The Fat Takers, America’s hangovers!” Oh Steve, you have such a bold vision for our future and your vivid imagination has perfectly captured our present day reality. As you described our ancestral past, the traumas of violent takeovers have hung over us and captured our ability to truly be a free nation. We have hurt indigenous peoples in ways that are unimaginable, and until (with humility as you voice) we heal from that darkness how can we honestly move forward. Thank you for your wise and passionate words and leadership for which we desperately need to inspire us and forge ahead.
My wife is born and raised in Montana. The residual racism toward native Americans that I run into there, now in 2024, is as nasty and barely below the surface as the racism I grew up feeling and hearing outside Atlanta. Thank you, Steve, for reminding us of the constance of our journey.
I appreciate your grounding in American history. I am thankful for the public school teachers I had in New Jersey who provided a good grounding for myself. Despite what the miscreants on the Right have long said, these public school teachers were educators of the first rank.
Now as I read your statement about the misfits soon to take over, my belief system in America has been permanently shattered. What is this now, three elections in a row? We’re a Banana Republic, just larger than most and filled with more bananas.
I would appreciate knowing what you think we should think about precisely and what you think we should plan. I envision working on building civil society in my community, and my husband and I are diversifying our portfolios and getting vaccinated before a former heroin addict tells us what we can or cannot get shot into our veins by a healthcare professional.
What else should we be planning?
I think we should stock up on lots of basic, non-perishable foods, canned goods, & hygiene supplies. If DT does start a true trade war with his tariffs, some things could become scarce.
I absolutely worry about the fact that so many of our medications are made in China & India. What happens if we piss them off enough that they declare a moratorium on shipping to the US?
Can you exist without your blood pressure or heart failure meds? What about an adult child who depends on antidepressants or antipsychotics to have a normal life? Those are the things I’d be thinking about, the life & death things.
Adding some information you didn't include. Heather Cox Richardson recently wrote a great essay about the Christian Indian boarding schools and the harm that was caused. She also discussed Biden's apology. Too many men are full of hate and want to hurt, dominate and control others.
That was a great piece.
PM Trudeau does not beg. He does negotiate. Canada will not be cowed by Donald Trump. Will we have to give to diminish the damage sure to be tried by Trump? Yes. But so will Trump have to give. And Mexico too. Again, it’s called negotiation. Trump is a bully. He’s a weak man who’s surrounded himself with henchmen. Most of whom are elected by citizens of States that do business with Canadian provinces. They will be working to diminish the “pain” of the ludicrous idea of “tariffs”.
No one wins in a trade war. At the end of the day each wins and each loses. It’s called “the Art of the deal”. And the “artists” come from all countries.
IDK, Justin looked pretty meek compared to Claudia. He needs to step down and let Freeland in; she means business. Canada though should look to the east and the west (Asia) and say sayonara to the US as much as possible. Just hope I can return to Canada with some retirement $$$ when it becomes clear it's no longer safe. Guessing that could be on Jan 21.
PM Trudeau isn’t weak. Just keeps his strategy close to his chest. Claudia doesn’t know Trump, Justin knows him all too well.
Chrystia is a good Minister. Not the PM, nor ever likely to be.
Perhaps you’ve lived stateside too long.
By all means bring those U.S. retirement $$$ home. Better do it sooner than later as you may not have much left after DJT finishes his scorched earth reign of terror.
BTW, we came home 10 years ago as we could see where the USA was going.
Our U.S.$$$ pensions are great, but taxes on the monthly exchange rate - in our favour - is not much fun. CRA gets 5 digit taxes from us yearly..😤
I’m gonna stay and do what I can. I was born here and I want my children and grandkids to have a chance. In fact, thinking of going silent soon. Everything is about strategy & timing now. Also, please know I am not being critical or judgmental. I only wish you & your family the best. I believe strongly that everyone should do what they believe is best for them and their families and not be chastised for it. We should all be thinking along these lines now. I made my decision years ago.
For our family, it’s about safety and security. For people of colour this is a perilous, frightening time to live in the U.S. - especially in Red States. My daughter and grands are keeping a very low profile. Saying little, always on alert, staying home. They are in Texas. And DJT isn’t even yet inaugurated. This is beyond concerning for us. So much so, we will not go stateside for the foreseeable future. We watch in horror from Canada and hope that there are enough Republicans of goodwill and an ethical backbone to stop the disaster that is coming.
Here’s what JT is dealing with while trying to find a way forward..
https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/donald-trumps-25-tariff-threat-raises-fears-of-recession-in-canada-while-trudeau-government-wont/article_1a162230-ac08-11ef-85c3-7bdc6d0586bb.html
My grandmother lived in three centuries (1899-2001), and fortunately remained very mentally fit until the end. She was also incredibly curious, and she and my grandfather instilled in my Dad a passion for history, which filtered into my generation. Timothy Snyder today wrote history surprises, warns and engages. Thank you, Steve, for showing the historical through lines. And wonderful suggestion to honor the treaties by 2026.
Three centuries -Incredible!
It makes for great conversation, plus keeps her forever in my heart with my curiosity about history
“The French saw the writing on the wall, and sold their possessions in 1803. The US doubled in size in an instant with the Louisiana purchase. It also began 20 years of savage fighting over control of Florida, which was claimed by two powers, the Seminole Tribe and Spain.”
Steve, are you sure the French saw the writing on the wall and sold the Louisiana Purchase to America for that reason?
From my understanding, the French were engaged in many wars between 1792-1803 with the Brits (expensive), as well we as fighting the Haitians during the Haitian Revolution in the late 1790’s and early 1800’s. That said, Napoleon needed to cash; especially since Haiti was a cash cow in the sugarcane trade; which imploded because of the Haitian Revolution.
The two are not mutually exclusive, Robert. Napoleon definitely needed the money, and the sale was possibly not at the highest price he could have obtained in more stable circumstances, but I think the demographic pressure was inevitable.
Agreed, they aren’t mutually exclusive, but the main reason was France was broke, and Napoleon had grand designs for Europe. However, I will concede that maintaining a large colonial empire in North America was not strategically viable, given his grand designs in Europe, and the Haitian Revolution that destroyed France’s cash cow: the sugarcane trade…:)
Thanks once again Steve. You are one of our greatest thinkers, writers, historians.
He sure is.
Thank you for the wonderful history lesson, Steve. Lots to think about as we move forward into what is sure to be a precarious next few years.
I agree whole heartedly with your 3 things we must do, especially the last one regarding the medals of honor that were given to the killers at Wounded Knee. As a combat veteran who reveres all who have earned that high honor, I have long felt that the 20 or so, all of whom are long gone, who were given that honor were never deserving of it, that they were given our highest honor desecrates the honor of all who deserved it. We can see the approaching storm, all of the signs of its danger are clear to anyone with eyes or ears. We are in for some terrible times, and many us are bracing themselves for the blows that are sure to come, our hope is that our institutions are stronger than the evil intent behind their attackers. For 248 years they have absorbed all manner of attacks that threatened their existence, and remained standing, the insipid orange turd and all of his lying bluster should be easily outmatched by our inherent strength. You can see he is running out of gas, it’s the reason he has not spoken in public for more than a sentence since before the election. The last time he spoke on camera he was incoherent, and that is what people voted for, the people around him know this, which is why we don’t see him live. I remember hearing that Reagan’s Alzheimer’s was deeply affecting him in the last year of his presidency, Nancy and his staff kept it hidden from the public until after he was gone, I have no doubt that something similar is going on now and we haven’t had the inaugural fiasco yet.
I realize that the American government has traditionally agreed to treaties with our native tribes that, more often than not, were never fulfilled by the government. I did not realize that some promises made are built into the constitution. Where have the Democrats been all this time? As you say, nothing will get done under Dear Leader's administration, but then, considering his "scorched earth" plans for our country, we likely won't have a government that ANY of us will recognize in short order. For all the struggle, pain, losses and triumphs in our short history as a country, it should no longer be a struggle to be decent, forward-thinking and fair. We really could live in something close to a utopia if we, as a people, acted honorably and mindful towards all.
A great post on a topic of great concern and interest. Many wrongs but no sponsor to right the wrongs. Trump will not take up the baton. Biden could by EO.
Holy cow. This was amazing.