From 1775 to 1825, countries across the Atlantic revolted against the imperial rule to establish their own
nations and sovereignty. As a result, the people gained more rights whilst the monarchs lost their powers in their colonies.
A brief history of revolutions tells us one thing: fight for your country and people. That’s how the heroes did it. But it tells us more than that. A person’s devotion towards his country can start in the simplest of ways. Moreover, times have changed; an act of war is not patriotism anymore.
Common Ways to Express Patriotism
Learning the Constitution
Other than the basis of our existing laws, the Constitution also holds the framework of our basic human rights which is in constant danger.
Knowing the national anthem
Although the national anthem is usually a war song that was developed during a revolution, nowadays it symbolizes our sovereignty. The anthem also comes with a flag that symbolizes one’s country. As stated by the folks at Ultimate Flags, such symbols can “help you celebrate your virtues, history, and ideas”. It could be seen as absurd by other people but at least you are offering your respect to your country.
Understanding the form of government
There are different forms of government according to wherever you live. Aristocracy usually has a centralized source of power, that is, the noble kings and queens. Whilst democracy is governed by the people. Any country in the world has unique ways of governing its nation; however, we cannot deny that tyranny is slowly resurfacing.
Engaging in political discussions
Although seen as stressful, political discussions are essential in helping us enhance our worldview. Additionally, government policies affect us one way or the other. We cannot escape political discussions for anything is political.
Voting
The recent US 2020 presidential elections provided us a new perspective, that is, collective effort. CNBC news reported that there was a high voter turnout in the recent 2020 presidential elections—it was the highest since 1900! Such events may help us see our power as one nation. Utilizing that power, we can provide services to our country that are for the common good of the people. Go register and vote!
What isn’t Patriotism?
Nationalism
It is easy to confuse patriotism with nationalism. However, those two are far apart. A patriot is devoted to serving his country through love and support for the collective good of all people; whilst a nationalist prioritizes his country’s interests over anything else. To keep it simple: nationalism nowadays is an aggressive form of patriotism.
Fascism
This is an ideology characterized by far-right authoritarian beliefs. A fascist government is controlled by a dictator wherein whatever he says, it should be done in a matter of time. A fascist government promotes oppression and abuse of power.
The world right now is in chaos. Problems in our respective countries constantly show up. However, if we work together we can effectively solve these problems. The first thing we have to do is to work on our differences. A nation cannot function if its people are divided.
