A New Cowboy Diplomacy

A New Cowboy Diplomacy
AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File

What implications does modern Jacksonianism have for U.S. foreign policy? Jacksonians don't want to order other people's lives, but are determined to protect their own lives, values, traditions, and dignity, regardless of status, as well those of their family, friends, and neighbors. Loyalty moves outward from those closest to home, yet includes an intense patriotism. Insults in general, and elite pretense, cant, or pomposity in particular, are intolerable. Instead, there's an insistence on respect and a willingness to give it, so long as it's reciprocal. The overall mentality is well captured by the words of the Gadsden flag: “Don't tread on me.”

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