America's Story Must Be Retold to Preserve Its Goodness Against Modern Revisionism
Source: Roy Maynard. "A Bicentennial Road Trip Taught Me What It Means To Be American." June 1, 2026. thefederalist.com
The Gist
The author argues that America is fundamentally good and great, and we need to keep telling that positive story. He worries that modern critics are trying to focus too much on America's flaws and not enough on its achievements, which could make people lose their patriotism.
Conclusion
America's story needs to be retold and celebrated, or it will be drowned out by postmodern revisionist narratives that obscure America's fundamental goodness and greatness
Premises
- The 1976 bicentennial celebration fostered genuine patriotism and love of country despite national divisions and acknowledged flaws
- America was and remains the freest and most prosperous nation in history, making it fundamentally good despite imperfections
- The Founding Fathers designed America as a 'more perfect union' - an ongoing aspiration rather than claiming perfection
- Modern critics like Congressman Huffman are trying to 'airbrush out' America's achievements and reject foundational principles like God-given rights
- Personal experiences of America's natural beauty and historical sites can cultivate informed patriotism and proper civic understanding
- The Constitution and Declaration of Independence establish enduring truths about human equality and inalienable rights that transcend historical failings
Assumptions
- Personal childhood experiences can provide valid insights into national character and values
- There is an objective 'goodness' to America that can be measured and defended
- Modern 'postmodern' critiques are fundamentally different from and more threatening than past criticisms
- Patriotic education and celebration are necessary for maintaining American values
- The 1976 approach to discussing history struck the right balance between acknowledging flaws and celebrating achievements