Document Type
Article
Language
eng
Format of Original
23 p.
Publication Date
11-2002
Publisher
Blackwell Publishing
Source Publication
The Sociological Review
Source ISSN
0038-0261
Original Item ID
doi: 10.1111/j.1467-954X.2002.tb02583.x
Abstract
This paper looks at a recent historical moment in which the American national identity was defined and contested in the public arena. The Persian Gulf crisis of 1990-91 presents a case in point in which official actors attempted to define the American character and in doing so prescribed particular actions necessary to fulfill what it means to be an American. President George Bush’s discourse used the crisis to rejuvenate US prestige and American confidence. He described Americans as unique in esteemed values and America as the only country capable of leading the world. In so doing, he invited American participation in support for US military intervention. On the other side, the peace movement chose to emphasize American weaknesses, domestic problems, and the gullible nature of the American people. In so doing, it attempted to shame Americans into supporting the anti-war movement.
Recommended Citation
Coles, Roberta, "War and the Contest Over National Identity" (2002). Social and Cultural Sciences Faculty Research and Publications. 2.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/socs_fac/2
Comments
Accepted version. The Sociological Review, Vol. 50, No. 4 (November 2002): 587-609. DOI. © 2002 Blackwell. Used with permission.
The definitive version is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com.