The Shifting Meaning of Patriotism

The article from The Daily Texan that I evaluated is about shifting of patriotism in the United States. The author states that patriotism in children is mostly influenced by social studies textbooks that show an innocent portrait of the United States. But these children will learn that American pride or patriotism is more complex and evolves over time. 2003 was the year of ardent patriotism regarding to the US invasions of Iraq. The invasion delivers passion and George Bush’s presidential rating which soared during that year. A student from the article recalled that "blind allegiance to President Bush" during that year. 2003 patriotism was more of showing military power that was backed by the idea of spreading freedom abroad. In 2013, the patriotism of 2003 has dissipated and shifted to the notion of "working to change the nation for the better." Today's patriotism is more of participating in the processes of the nation and not a blind adherence to the leader. The author showed the 40 Acres as the evident of shifting patriotism, with the emergence of cultural centers like Center for Mexican American Studies and the Center for Women's and Gender Studies. Also, the author stated that he saw fewer American flags than decade ago on July 4. He concluded that 2013 version of patriotism is rich with diversity and better than decade ago.

I would the say the article is very good, the argument of shifting patriotism is well supported by opinions of some people. Also, the author gave an evident of emergence of cultural centers that support his argument. This article is intended for all Americans, showing that Americans are progressing and improving in the notion of patriotism. Patriotism in the US has evolved and will evolve again over time.