Much of how Americans have always understood their history, culture, and identity depends on positioning Europe as the 'other,' as that 'old world' against which they define themselves.
Interpretation
Americans often define their identity in contrast to European culture and history.
This quote by Linda Colley highlights the idea that American identity has been shaped by a sense of separation from Europe, which is viewed as the 'old world.' This positioning allows Americans to craft a unique sense of self and culture that distinguishes them from their European roots, creating a narrative that emphasizes innovation and a break from tradition.
In practice
In a history lecture discussing American exceptionalism.
Look at how the British covered India with railroads, and it is easy to view them as modernisers. Look, however, at the abysmal levels of mass illiteracy in the subcontinent they left behind in 1947, and they appear rather differently.
Empire in the past was always a far harsher and much more accident-prone business than conventional history books imply. And the costs of these overseas invasions were borne not just by those on the receiving end but - frequently - by ordinary, vulnerable people among or associated with the invaders.
To forget a Holocaust is to kill twice
Use it, enjoy it, but always handle history with care.
Today's headlines and history's judgment are rarely the same.
During the twentieth century, men fought on behalf of nationalism. Yet the wars they fought were also engendered by dislocations in world markets and by social revolution stimulated by the coming of the industrial age.
We lost the American colonies because we lacked the statesmanship to know the right time and the manner of yielding what is impossible to keep.
History isn't really about the past - settling old scores. It's about defining the present and who we are.
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