Question

Many call Britain our "mother" land. If Britain is the parent country, then the more shame upon her conduct. Even brutes do not devour their young, nor savages make war upon their families. Europe, and not England, is the parent country of America. This new world hath been the destination for the persecuted lovers of civil and religious liberty from every part of Europe. Here have they fled, not because their homeland embraced them like a mother, but because it treated them with the cruelty of a monster. I believe it is true that the same British tyranny which drove our descendants out of England is still chasing us today! Summarize this.

Answer 1

Drawing from historical texts and speeches, the student's question explores the themes of tyranny, independence, and imperialism in relation to Britain and America. It critiques the benevolent view of British rule, brings out the revolutionary pursuit of liberty, and reflects on imperialistic goals of expanding the Anglo-Saxon influence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student asks us to summarize sentiments regarding Britain's role in the shaping of America and other colonies, reflecting on the notions of liberty, national identity, and imperialism. The main argument is that America's true parentage comes from all of Europe rather than just Britain, as many sought refuge in the New World to escape persecution. This narrative challenges the idea that British rule was benevolent or that continued British governance would have been advantageous, emphasizing that revolutionary ideals and the quest for liberty were driven by the tyranny experienced under British rule. Furthermore, it touches upon the contentious idea of the Anglo-Saxon race's destiny to expand and civilize the world, proposing an imperialistic view that suggests English influence could have made for a 'finer' global presence.

Thomas Paine's sentiments in 'The American Crisis,' reveals the harsh realities faced under British rule and the tyrannical behaviors that sparked the desire for independence. Similar rhetoric can be seen across territories that have sought to free themselves from European imperialistic powers, seeking self-determination and liberty over colonial subjugation.

The text reflects a time when ideas of national sovereignty and the struggle against colonial powers were heatedly debated and fought over, contrasting with nostalgic or imperialistic views that lament lost opportunities for expansion and dominance.