Post-Liberalism Past to Present

1) Explain some of the ways in which Post-War America (after World War II) is different from the U.S. in previous eras?

• Post-War World II era is different since Americans had to take an interest for foreign affairs unlike previous eras.  Being involved in multiple conflicts outside their own government doing, but none-the-less fighting for another’s cause (freedom, independence, etc.) led Americans to become less self-involved and aware of what’s going on outside their sphere. 
• Ideas of “New Americans” presented by Kennedy took hold in the minds of Americans, militant and economic superiority.

2) Explain how modern American political leaders interpret and apply American history in their political speeches. How effective is this is for justifying their policies?

Great American Presidents of the past have left marks of their tenor that resonates to this date:  George Washington is known for the Declaration of Independence, Abraham Lincoln fought against slavery; leading to the emancipation proclamation, Woodrow Wilson ushered in the progressive era which resulted in laws and offices set up for social and economic change for citizens, Franklin D. Roosevelt who led the United States during the Depression, War, and institutionalized the New Deal.  Many presidential candidates have learned to embody/align themselves to previous presidents to present similarities between them, showing that like these great leaders, they too can do much for government and the citizens of the U.S.  Depending on the current political conflict will denote which past presidential icon will be employed.  This ploy works well with American’s who is looking a resolution to whatever problem their facing, and so elect the candidate that can convincingly portray that feeling of security.

 

Quote Interpretation

John F, Kennedy

“And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you – but what you can do for your country.”

I picked this famous quote because I have heard it since I’ve been born.  It has been utilized in past presidential candidates speeches and commercials over time.  This quote is a challenge to Americans to push to the limits of what they can contribute to their country.  It’s not only what America can provide to citizens, but the contribution citizens must make in return to make it great.