Why the Term ‘American’ Still Ranksleves You?

People often get triggered when U.S. citizens refer to themselves as simply 'Americans' instead of 'United Statesians' or more specifically, 'U.S. Americans.' This reaction may stem from a misguided belief that by using the shorter term, you are disregarding the existence of all other people living in the Americas (both North and South). However, this is a misunderstanding born out of a discomfort with identity and national pride.

Historical Context

The notion that the term 'American' exclusively refers to a citizen of the United States is a relatively recent concept. Before September 1776, when the United States officially became the 'United States of America,' those living in the thirteen colonies of the Crown of Great Britain identified themselves as 'Americans.' They were called by their colonial names (e.g., Georgians, Virginians) until the formal designation. Even in later years, residents of other countries like Mexico or Canada were free to use their national names, such as 'Mexican,' 'Canadian,' without any issues of intimidation or exclusion.

It's important to note that terms like 'Mexican' and 'Canadian' have been in common usage for centuries, while 'United Statesian' never gained widespread acceptance. This is why we are commonly referred to as 'Americans' most of the time, as we have been for centuries. None of us had any say in this and we shouldn't be held accountable for it either.

Patriotism and Pride

There is also a cultural dimension to this debate. Many U.S. citizens take pride in the term 'American,' using it as a symbol of patriotism. Terms like 'red-blooded' are often associated with a sense of national pride and identity. This makes it difficult for people from other nations to understand or appreciate the significance of the term, leading to triggers when it is used.

Patriotism itself is a deeply personal and emotional issue, and it can be seen as a form of national pride or identity. For Americans to be patriotic deeply offends citizens of other countries, and sometimes even fellow Americans. It's baffling to think that a personal choice should be a source of offense. Just as some might take pride in being a biker or a vegan, being an American is no different. These identities are personal choices, and they don't detract from anyone else's experience or identity.

Addressing Triggers

The final reason for the controversy is that some people are simply uncomfortable with the presence of Americans on Earth. For many, it's best to ignore such triggers if they arise, as they are often rooted in personal insecurities rather than logical concerns.

At its core, this is a question of identity and how we choose to define ourselves. The term 'American' has historical roots and cultural significance for many people, especially those from the United States. It is not a matter of semantics but rather a reflection of a shared identity and pride. While it's understandable to feel discomfort when encountering one's own identity, it's important to recognize that such triggers are often personal and not a reflection of any inherent issue with the term itself.

In conclusion, while the term 'American' may cause some discomfort, it is largely a product of history and personal identity rather than a disregard for other nationalities. Understanding the cultural and historical context can help mitigate these triggers and foster a more inclusive and respectful dialogue on national identity.