American Culture and U.S. Nationalism Essay

Introduction

I have been studying Southeast Asian literature for the last three years. Most of it dates back to the 1940s and 1970s. The countries of concern are China and Vietnam. Literature confirms that the two counties were not united. In fact, their division was based on political lines. Some people supported communism and others, – nationalism. This formed the basis for conflict. This resulted in the Vietnam War and the Japanese invasion. People were not united because of personal interests. This affected the image and identity of the two countries.

Main body

The study of Southeast Asian literature has impacted my perception of American culture. I have not appreciated the American culture for long. In fact, I did not appreciate it prior to studying Southeast Asian literature. I am convinced that the American culture is one of the best cultures in the world. Americans integrate aspects of humanity into their culture. Their interests can be compared with those of humanity. Besides, they are not divided into ethnic lines. This has created a civil chauvinistic society within the United States of America.

Unlike the Southeast Asian culture, American culture emphasizes national building for the common good. All these years, I have been thinking that it was not right for a country to be defined by a common culture. However, I was wrong. For instance, Wars seen in China and Vietnam could not have occurred if people shared a mutual culture. It was the conflict of interest that saw the start of the wars. This makes me think that American culture is reputable. Americans can never fight one another as seen in Southeast Asian culture.

The other noteworthy thing is the support that the Americans give to their troops and other officers that serve their interests. For instance, when it was clear that American troops were being killed in Vietnam, there were demonstrations aimed at returning them to the United States. This action was desirable because it showed a sense of humanity. It was an indication that Americans can unite and serve the country at the time of need.

Therefore, I appreciate American culture more than I appreciated it 3 years ago. It could be good if all the nations acted like the United States. Having knowledge of Southeast Asian literature has made me take appropriate decisions and air my views about some of the issues in society. My opinion has changed in regard to what I have read and what is expected of a citizen. Unlike the Southeast Asian culture where people fought against one another for no reason, Americans embraced immigrants and shunned ethnic and racial politics.

Conclusion

In summary, the Southeast Asian literature has enlightened me on some of the wrongs during the 1940s and 1960s. This has made me embrace a culture that is based on human rights and aspects of humanity. This has seen my appreciation of the American culture. There is a need for all people in all societies to embrace the culture and norms that will serve the interest of all people. This will form a foundation for peaceful co-existence for future generations. I am proud to have changed my opinion regarding American culture.