The American Spirit in the Writings of Americans of Foreign Birth
General
The American Spirit in the Writings of Americans of Foreign Birth
American literature; Americanization; Noncitizens -- United States
But to the false teaching and the various pernicious “isms” with which
un-Americans, fifty per cent. Americans or anti-Americans are flooding
the country, we must give battle through an organized, persistent,
patient, nationwide campaign of education, of information, of sane
and sound doctrine. The masses of the American people want what is
right and fair, but they “want to be shown.” They will not simply take
our word for it that because a thing is so and has always been so,
therefore it should remain so. They do not mean to stand still. They
want progress. They have no use for the standpatter and reactionary.
Even before the war a great stirring and ferment was going on in the
land. The people were groping, seeking for a new and better condition
of things. The war has intensified that movement. It has torn great
fissures in the ancient structure of our civilization. To restore
it will require the co-operation of all patriotic men of sane and
temperate views, whatever may be their occupation or calling or
political affiliations.
It cannot be restored just as it was before. The building must be
rendered more habitable and attractive to those whose claim for
adequate houseroom cannot be left unheeded, either justly or safely.
Some changes, essential changes, must be made. I have no fear of the
outcome and of the readjustment which must come. I have no fear of
the forces of freedom unless they be ignored, repressed or falsely or
selfishly led.
Changes the American people will make as their needs become apparent,
improvements they welcome, the greatest attainable well-being for all
those under our national roof-tree is their aim. They will strive to
realize what formerly were considered unattainable ideals. But they
will do all that in the American way of sane and orderly progress--and
in no other.
Whatever betide in European countries, this nation will not be torn
from its ancient moorings. Against foes within, no less than against
enemies without, the American people will ever know how to preserve
and protect the splendid structure of light and order, which is the
treasured inheritance of all those who rightfully bear the name
Americans, whatever their race and origin.
MARCUS ELI RAVAGE
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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