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 bomber

Finally, we have good old consumer patriotism. In response to growing concerns over America’s economic situation, the President and his cabinet have concocted the notion of market patriotism, the association of love of country with the purchase of consumer goods, in order to keep the economy afloat.

Our patriotism, as we are all learning, can be misguided and exploited. One such case of exploitation is from Government. For instance, The Pledge of Allegiance has long been removed from the public schools but now it has been dusted off and promoted in schools across the nation.

In October, Florida's legislature rushed through a new patriotism law. The bill requires school districts to establish patriotic programs, mandating that the Pledge of Allegiance be recited each day at every public school. Students must also stand and place their hand over their heart during its recitation. (Washington Post.com)

Many believe that this new Patriotism will lead citizens to actually increase their political participation, but if history serves as a guide, Americans won’t change a bit. Historically, in wartime the unity and consensus that prevails obliterates any differences that exist. Peace will have to return before many Americans will begin to seriously criticize Government officials.

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