Understanding Misconceptions About the United States: A Foreigner's Perspective

From the outside, the United States often appears to be a country plagued by political infighting, lack of unity, and varying levels of political agreement. However, underlying this surface-level chaos lie deep-seated familial and national cohesion. When the nation faces a threat, internal differences dissolve in an instant, as evidenced by the unwavering support for service members and the community's solidarity in times of crisis.

Untold Strengths of American Cohesion

One common misconception is that the U.S. is on the verge of disintegration. Any threat, whether military or covert, to the American way of life brings the people together. This is exemplified by the Marine Corps motto, “No better friend, no greater enemy.” When harm comes to the nation, it is met with an unparalleled level of violent retribution. This unity is a testament to the nation's resilience.

Living in proximity to the U.S. and visiting numerous states for work and pleasure has offered valuable insights into the real nature of the country. Shockingly, a significant number of Americans possess a disturbing level of ignorance and intolerance, which became glaringly apparent during the pandemic. Despite the size of the country, there is a striking cultural divide that has become more pronounced.

Physical Size and Cultural Divide

Contrary to popular belief, the United States is not as large as some might imagine. From the southern tip of mainland Florida to the northwestern tip of Washington State, one could drive over 3,000 miles and never leave the contiguous U.S., covering a distance equivalent to driving from Gibraltar to the northern coast of Norway, including the Artic Circle. Despite this vast expanse, there are distinct cultural differences that emerge between regions.

There are stories and experiences that have left a lasting impression. For instance, a couple of years ago, while driving from Southern California to Yellowstone National Park, we spent the night in a motel. In the hotel pool, I struck up a conversation with an Israeli woman who had grown up in France. She was continually amazed at the sheer size of the U.S. and the vast distances between cities, a testament to the physical and cultural diversity that defines the country.

Travel Experiences: Safety and Culture

As a foreigner, I have traveled to many parts of the U.S., including Detroit and Memphis, often perceived as dangerous cities. Despite these preconceptions, I was never afraid to travel there; nothing ever happened to make me reconsider my plans. However, the recent events surrounding the pandemic have changed my perspective. The attitudes and behaviors I have witnessed during this period have made me question whether I will ever set foot in the U.S. again.

The ignorance displayed by some Americans and the pervasive hate that I have seen during the pandemic have been eye-opening. It is a stark reminder that the U.S. is not just a geographical entity but a complex tapestry of cultures, beliefs, and values. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone wishing to gain a deeper appreciation of the country.

Employing such a perspective, we can avoid the pitfalls of oversimplification and better understand the true essence of the United States. Whether viewing it from a distance or living within its borders, the country's unity and diversity are its most enduring qualities.