When I was in grade school, we often read a little magazine called the “Weekly Reader.”
The Weekly Reader said that America was better than Russia and East Germany because THOSE nations didn’t take care of their own people but, instead, emptied their public coffers on military parades and other celebrations of national might.
We were told that America was better than Russian and East Germany because THOSE nations were governed by an individual strong man whereas OUR nation was governed by a democratic process with checks and balances against tyranny.
We were told that America was better than Russia and East Germany because THEY focused on flags and propaganda, whereas OUR patriotism consisted in loyalty to the Constitution and to an ever-increasing understanding that human rights apply to EVERYONE.
We were told that THOSE countries required obedience to the dear leader, but that WE could protest peacefully without fear of retribution.
We were told that THOSE countries required conformity, whereas OUR nation believed that it is diversity that makes us strong (E Pluribus Unum).
My, how times change.