“What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass
This is the perfect time to read the entirety of Frederick Douglass’s famous speech, and not merely because of the date on the calendar.
Jul 4, 2023 / Dave Zirin
The Army Is Recruiting—Gen Z Just Isn’t Biting The Army Is Recruiting—Gen Z Just Isn’t Biting
After 20 years of losing wars, who can blame them?
Apr 20, 2023 / Nan Levinson
Top 15 4th of July Songs Top 15 4th of July Songs
These songs make clear what’s special about the US while highlighting the enormous amount of work that still needs to be done.
Jul 4, 2022 / Peter Rothberg
Is There a Place for Patriotism on the Left? Is There a Place for Patriotism on the Left?
Michael Kazin argues that ones need patriotism to engage effectively in the democratic process, while Rafia Zakaria writes that “love of the flag” undermines commitments to interna...
Mar 4, 2022 / Editorial / Michael Kazin and Rafia Zakaria
If You Want to Honor US Soldiers, Start by Questioning Our Military If You Want to Honor US Soldiers, Start by Questioning Our Military
A veteran looks back on the follies of the US military during his time in Afghanistan.
May 13, 2020 / Erik Edstrom
The US Government Has Sanitized War The US Government Has Sanitized War
We are reminded of our endless wars only when the government wants to invoke patriotism without criticism.
Feb 26, 2020 / William Astore
Gun Basics—and Other Lessons Gun Basics—and Other Lessons
Getting along is a necessity when you know you’re likely to run into each other at the only gas station in town. But it’s also a frame of mind.
Jan 1, 2020 / All Politics Is Local / Karen Rothmyer
Country Music Is Also Mexican Music Country Music Is Also Mexican Music
The Department of Homeland Security recruits agents at country festivals, but the musical genre knows no borders.
Jan 3, 2019 / Ludwig Hurtado
Letters From the November 6, 2017, Issue Letters From the November 6, 2017, Issue
Kneeling down, rising up… The wrong idol… False flag… Digital redistricting?… A worthy candidate… From the stacks…
Oct 19, 2017 / Letters / Our Readers
Too Many Americans Think Patriotism Means Racism and Xenophobia Too Many Americans Think Patriotism Means Racism and Xenophobia
And our communities are facing hate violence at levels that rival the aftermath of 9/11 as a consequence.
Sep 11, 2017 / Suman Raghunathan