Myth America: Historians Take on the Biggest Legends and Lies About Our Past

In the vast tapestry of American history, few ideas have been as enduring and yet as misunderstood as the notion of American exceptionalism. Originally coined in the 1920s, not as a badge of honor but as a critical observation, this concept emerged from the halls of communist thought to explain why the United States diverged from the expected path of socialist evolution. It was a term that labeled America as an anomaly, a nation whose social and economic structures defied the norms of historical development. This early usage sharply contrasts with the later adoption of the phrase as a rallying cry of patriotism and pride.

Tracing the journey of American exceptionalism reveals a fascinating evolution. Early on, it was a tool of critique, used to highlight the stubborn resilience of capitalism in the US. Yet, as decades passed, the term was transformed into a symbol of moral and political superiority, embraced by politicians and citizens alike as evidence of the nation's unique destiny. This shift illustrates how language and ideas can be repurposed to serve vastly different ends depending on the cultural and political climate.

One of the most striking chapters in this transformation occurred in the 1990s, when a prominent political figure took the concept and wielded it as a weapon against ideological opponents. By asserting that America was not just different but superior, this leader galvanized a conservative base and framed the political Left as unpatriotic and out of touch. Such usage underscores the power of myths in shaping political identity and discourse.

Underlying these political maneuvers are deeper historical narratives that Americans have long told themselves. The Puritan settlers' vision of a 'city upon a hill' cast the nation as a beacon of virtue and divine purpose. The myth of the frontier painted a picture of restless expansion and opportunity. Yet, woven through these tales are threads of racialized superiority and moral contradictions that complicate the story of American greatness.

Together, these elements form a complex mosaic of belief, myth, and political utility. They remind us that the stories a nation tells about itself are never static but evolve with its needs and challenges. As we move forward, understanding this history allows us to critically engage with the myths that shape our identity and politics. Recognizing the origins and transformations of American exceptionalism is key to unraveling the narratives that continue to influence public discourse today.

With this foundation laid, we now turn to the myths surrounding the very birth of the nation itself—the founding myths that have shaped constitutional understanding and political identity for centuries.