In light of the War on Terrorism and growing socio-political cynicism, it’s time for our nation to embark on a cultural and political renaissance to recapture the rich tapestry of human creativity within American society. The noble quest to elevate the public’s understanding and appreciation of its particular heritage is not novel. Human history is replete with ambitious and bright individuals whose determination to raise the fundamental denominators of their civilization altered the way future generations viewed the world. For example, in 16th-century Florence, the political scientist and philosopher, Niccolo Machiavelli, devoted considerable time examining the political and historical issues that impacted not only Italy, but his native Florence. His political writings resonated with an urgency for political action to unify a dismembered Italy under the leadership of an able, strong and enlightened ruler. His wish for Florence and Italy was that it regain its virtu: a sense of excellence in government and society.
In the American experience, we have witnessed a number of eclectic individuals who have played a major role in shaping our nation’s political and cultural destiny. A central figure during the 19th century was Abraham Lincoln, who demonstrated courage and resilience during the painful and bloody struggle of the American Civil War. Determined, shrewd and tough, Lincoln managed not only to keep the United States together, but also abolished the long-standing institution of slavery. By doing so, Lincoln set into motion profound changes that altered the cultural fabric of the American South. Above all, Lincoln, through his Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 and his memorable Second Inaugural Address in 1865, raised the social and political consciousness of our nation.
During the 20th century, a number of eminent historical figures, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt, have left an indelible mark on the American cultural and political psyche. Elected president in 1932, Roosevelt initiated patrician reforms under his New Deal program, which alleviated some of the human misery caused by the Great Depression. Although experimental in nature, his progressive reforms called for the Federal government to play an active role in the social welfare of the American people. Roosevelt apparently concluded that the traditional concept of rugged individualism had to be modified to cope with the deep economic crisis that gripped the nation in 1933. The creation of the CCC, WPA, the Rural Electrification Act, the Social Security Act as well as the president’s willingness to embrace collective bargaining power for labor are all indicative of Roosevelt’s sweeping New Deal reforms that transformed the fabric of American society.
Another prominent and eclectic individual who raised the cultural denominators of America was Jacqueline Kennedy. Emerging on the national stage in 1961, Jackie Kennedy taught a nation about culture and distinction by combining a unique sense of fashion with a strong sense of scholarship. Furthermore, intertwined with the first lady’s interest in fashion was her commitment to the preservation of the arts and humanities, her commitment to the restoration of the White House, her push to host a dinner in honor of the Nobel Laureates in 1962 and her avid interest in hosting youth concerts to encourage young people to study classical music. In my opinion, all of her efforts were indicative of her genuine desire that American civilization should be committed to the idea of developing a rich and diverse cultural identity of its own.
Now, at the dawn of the 21st century, America is in search of itself. In the wake of the terrorist attacks against America, coupled with economic uncertainty, many Americans realize that we need to revitalize our political, economic and cultural institutions in order for us to change the present course of where we want to go as a people. As a nation, we realize from history that adversity can serve as an impetus for people to summon the will to achieve constructive change throughout society. However, to attain positive change requires people to play an active role in the political process. In my opinion, there is nothing that remains more paramount than to get the American people immersed in the times in which they live. Only if Americans become more cognizant of their political surroundings through education, community involvement, state and federal campaign participation can we not only restore the trust between the American people and their government, but also tap into the rich reservoir of human potential that resides within our diverse culture.
