Editorial: America@250, a flawed glory

The rise of right-wing nationalism meant that the country is more polarised than ever before. More and more Americans are losing faith in their institutions

A quarter of a millennium is a long time in the journey of a nation; a milestone worthy of celebration for thriving as one cohesive entity after waves of trials and tribulations. As the United States of America marks 250 years of the Declaration of Independence, the world’s oldest democracy presents a picture of glorious paradoxes. On one hand, American society is grappling with deep polarisation and partisan divide, while on the other it continues to hold an alluring appeal for millions of immigrants from around the world as a land of opportunities. At the global stage, it is no longer the anchor of global security and stability as its influence is on the decline amid China’s expanding footprint and clout. Still, America is looked upon as a beacon of liberty, freedom and equality and continues to be the global leader in technology, innovation and research. Despite all the troubling antics of the Trump-eramarked by the growing hatred for immigrants, ugly display of ethno-nationalism, impulsive trade policies and encouragement to white supremacists, America still offers the best of opportunities and serves as a magnet to attract the best minds from across the world. It is to the credit of the overwhelming majority of ordinary Americans that the nation’s core values and the dreams of the founders are largely adhered to and celebrated. Under Trump’s presidency, America may have veered off the path of international order, kept both the allies and adversaries on tenterhooks with mercurial policies and reneged on international commitments, but this phase must be seen as an aberration in the long journey of the democratic nation.

From a fledgling republic to a global superpower, the United States has constantly reinvented itself over the last 250 years. An enduring symbol of capitalism and celebration of ethnic diversity, it has always shown the resolve to reinvent itself and bounce back as a global power whenever faced with big challenges. It has expanded democracy and driven innovation. The American Dream has been enticing millions of immigrants to the vibrant nation full of hope, optimism and individualism. However, the rise of right-wing nationalism, the key support base of Donald Trump, meant that the country is more polarised than ever before. More and more Americans are losing faith in their institutions and grappling with deep political and cultural divisions amid dwindling opportunities. Trump has made curbing immigration a cornerstone of his presidency, after campaigning on a promise to carry out the largest mass deportation programme in history. During his second term, he has not only clamped down on immigrants illegally but also blocked some legal pathways to come to the US. Survey after survey taken ahead of the 250th anniversary of America’s founding showed many Americans feel the “American Dream”- the promise that anyone in the United States can create a bright future for themselves – is fading.