Patriotism

            Three thousand years ago, The Spartans, as they marched out of their city to war, would stop and salute the city gods. These warriors were not sure if they would ever view the city again, but they were secure in knowing that the city-state for which they fought would be protected by the Gods. They believed that the very cause that they were fighting for was in accord with divine will. .
             This belief was one of the early manifestations of what would we now consider patriotism. The dictionary defines Patriotism as: "love of country and willingness to sacrifice for it." Eighteenth century author Samuel Johnson had a more colorful definition when he proclaimed, "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel." (History.com).
             After the September 11th attacks, it appears that a newfound sense of patriotism has swept across the country. Since we are a multi-cultured nation with various religious beliefs and backgrounds, Americans feel that they must find some common ideology to inspire and support them. They feel Patriotism can be just as potent as the blood bonding of terrorist groups.
             We know that we witnessed both heroism and Patriotism it on Sept. 11. We saw it in the firefighters and others who proved as willing as suicide bombers to run toward death. Their sacrifice prompted humbling, sometimes surprising feelings of patriotism in many Americans. Patriotism is having another effect on the nation. For instance, despite a national recession, Americans express support for their leaders and their nation at levels not seen since World War II. All American major institutions have been effected by this rallying effect. Approval of the over all direction of the country itself has soared. Satisfaction with the direction of the country has increased from 43% to 67%. (Cnn.com).
             Both the President and Congress are enjoying similar striking improvements in support. President George Bush found his popularity growing by almost 40% in a two-week span, and Congress now has a historical approval rating of 84%.