American Exceptionalism

Definition

American exceptionalism is the belief that the United States is inherently different from other nations, often due to its unique history, political system, and cultural values. This idea suggests that America has a special role in world affairs, particularly in promoting democracy and freedom, and is often tied to notions of manifest destiny and the idea that the U.S. has a moral obligation to lead and uplift other countries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. American exceptionalism emerged as a prominent ideology in the 19th century, during periods of territorial expansion and industrial growth.
2. The concept has been used to justify various political decisions, including wars, foreign interventions, and domestic policies.
3. Critics argue that American exceptionalism can lead to a sense of entitlement and disregard for international norms and perspectives.
4. Literary works from authors like Alexis de Tocqueville and Walt Whitman reflect ideas related to American exceptionalism, shaping national identity through their observations.
5. The idea continues to influence American politics today, impacting discussions around immigration, foreign policy, and civil rights.

Review Questions

• How did American exceptionalism influence the perception of U.S. foreign policy in the 19th century?
  • American exceptionalism shaped U.S. foreign policy by fostering a belief that America had a duty to spread democracy and civilization across the globe. This mindset justified actions such as westward expansion and interventions in foreign conflicts under the guise of promoting liberty. It created a narrative where America's unique values were seen as superior and worth exporting, ultimately influencing both domestic debates and international relations.
• In what ways did literary figures contribute to the development of the idea of American exceptionalism during its formative years?
  • Literary figures like Alexis de Tocqueville and Walt Whitman played significant roles in shaping the idea of American exceptionalism through their writings. Tocqueville's analysis of American democracy highlighted its uniqueness in promoting individual freedom and equality, while Whitman's poetry celebrated the diversity and optimism of American life. These works helped craft a national identity rooted in exceptionalist ideals, influencing how Americans viewed their country both internally and externally.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of American exceptionalism on contemporary American society and its implications for global relations.
  • The long-term impacts of American exceptionalism are evident in contemporary society through ongoing debates about national identity, immigration, and foreign policy. This belief continues to inspire a sense of pride among Americans but can also lead to critical conversations about moral responsibility toward other nations. In global relations, it shapes how the U.S. engages with international issues, often leading to tensions between its self-perceived role as a leader versus the realities of global interdependence and criticism from other countries regarding its actions.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and destiny of the United States to expand across the North American continent.

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to a sense of superiority over other nations.

Exceptionalism: A broader term that refers to the idea that a particular country or group is unique and should be treated differently than others.