As the United States nears its 250th anniversary, Eddie Glaude Jr., a historian and Princeton professor, expresses his frustration. In Philadelphia on March 1, 2023, Glaude shared his new book, America, U.S.A.: How Race Shadows the Nation’s Anniversaries, beginning with a stark admission: “I do not love America, and never have, especially now.” His dissatisfaction roots in actions like the Supreme Court’s weakening of the Voting Rights Act and redistricting efforts that could reduce Black representation in Congress.
Glaude explains that his book aims to stabilize his intense feelings. He states, “What I was trying to do with this book was kind of write some security underneath my feet. So that I could actually get this rage under control, to get my sadness, my melancholy under control.” He examines America’s history through previous anniversaries and centennials, arguing that the “divided soul of the nation is in full view.” As the milestone nears, Glaude insists the nation must face its shortcomings in realizing its founding values, urging, “America has to grow up. It can no longer hide in its adolescence.” He questions whether the country can reconcile its persona as a freedom symbol with its identity as a white republic, suggesting this contradiction fuels madness within the nation.
Interview Highlights
During an interview, Glaude detailed the provocative beginning of his book, which opens with “I do not love America.” He notes the initial drafts lacked impact until the defining sentence emerged, urging him to confront his feelings honestly.
Glaude discusses the importance of national anniversaries, emphasizing how these occasions should narrate America’s story accurately, beyond idealized depictions of its founders and historical narratives. He challenges focusing solely on symbolic events like the UFC arena or the Great American Fair, advocating for more honest reflections.
On patriotism, Glaude critiques the possessive patriotism he hears, closely associated with restricting voting rights and dismissing minority experiences. He reflexively questions motives behind fervent displays of national pride.
Glaude recalls a visit to Philadelphia’s Congress Hall, where a guide presented an oversimplified version of America’s founding conflicts. When the guide focused on trivialities, Glaude sensed the historical omission, feeling the presence of unacknowledged issues like slavery.