Eddie Glaude Jr. Reflects on America’s Divisions Ahead of 250th Anniversary

As the United States nears its 250th anniversary, historian and Princeton professor Eddie Glaude Jr. expresses deep frustration. In his new book, America, U.S.A.: How Race Shadows the Nation’s Anniversaries, he opens with a stark declaration: “I do not love America, and never have, especially now.” He discusses concerns like the Supreme Court’s weakening of the Voting Rights Act and redistricting efforts threatening Black representation in Congress.

Glaude’s Intentions with His Book

Glaude explains that his goal was to find stability amid his emotions. He sought to control his anger and sadness by writing this book. According to Glaude, the nation’s divided nature is evident as the milestone approaches. He urges the country to acknowledge its shortcomings in fulfilling its founding principles.

America has to grow up, he asserts. It can no longer hide in its adolescence.

He observes that America tries to balance its identity as a symbol of freedom with its history as a white republic, leading to internal conflicts.

On Opening with “I Do Not Love America”

Glaude recalls struggling with the book’s introduction. He felt he was holding back until the sentence “I do not love America” emerged. Initially, he feared the implications of this statement but realized it was necessary to begin the discussion honestly.

Anniversaries and National Narratives

Glaude notes that each anniversary invites the nation to tell its story. The 250th anniversary will likely focus on the founders’ perceived saintliness and the revered nature of the American experiment, while often ignoring deeper truths.

Patriotism and Personal Experience

For Glaude, patriotism can resemble a “rebel yell.” It often comes from those who want to confine others to their “place” and deny diverse experiences. When he hears fervent declarations of love for the country, he questions the sincerity and motives behind them.

An Experience in Congress Hall

Glaude recounts a visit to Philadelphia’s Congress Hall, where the guide described conflicts not over party lines but over regional differences. When the guide suggested that main conflicts concerned how delegates shook hands, Glaude was struck by the omission of important historical issues like slavery. This experience exemplified for him the sanitized version of America’s history often presented in such narratives.

The interview was produced by Anna Bauman and Susan Nyakundi. It was adapted for the web by Bridget Bentz and Meghan Sullivan.