What Is American Exceptionalism?

First, screen the 60 minute DocuDrama of THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL, and the 30 minute Historical Perspective. Then, have your Discussion Leader read through the following points and share your thoughts about the time, the people and the Biblical analogies!

“It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the Providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.” - George Washington, October 3, 1789

Is “exceptionalism” a common belief among all people that the nation they live in is “the best” or “the greatest” among nations? Perhaps, but there is so much more to American Exceptionalism than that. It centers more on America being a “new nation” founded in a “New World”, and that people seeking religious freedom were able to journey to a land with abundant natural resources and begin life anew. Coming to the New World to start a Colony was like being “born again”. It was a renewal of one's life, spirit and faith.

North America was always seen as a shelter protecting God's people from religious persecution, and as such, the United States always had a unique relationship with God. All that we equate with being an American, from the “pioneer spirit” to rugged individualism and our “can do” attitude comes from the kind of people who made the dangerous voyages from Europe. And, it would require an epic amount of faith and endurance to undertake such an adventure. They were highly motivated, God-centered men and women coming to a land of opportunity, determined to succeed. And once established, a person could, through social mobility in our “classless society”, rise as high as their talents and perserverance could take them. That is living the American Dream, that is the land that God shed His Grace on – that is American Exceptionalism.

There are many people today who do not like the fact that the United States of America was founded by devout followers of Jesus Christ – and we can accept that. But we cannot and should not accept any deliberate attempts to hide, or otherwise revise that basic historic fact, and we should be prepared to oppose with the truth, any such attempts.

Tony Malanowski
Producer/Director

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