I'd probably say that the issue is too complex to be put into a short paragraph. Those that have generations, if not centuries of history in the region do not and will not forget the effects of empire influencing their way of life. Between the empires of Spain, France, England, and the US, we have suppressed their societies for centuries. All of those mentioned have supported repressive governments, exhibited racially repressive influence for our own economic gain. These things do not sit well in a society with an inter-generational memory.
I've said for years we would have less enemies and problems if we stopped pissing in other peoples sandboxes. And it's not just the ME. It's time to respect other nations and their sovereignty without regard to our best short term gain. It's time to accept that we're all in this together and what benefits one should not be at the expense of another.
We in the US suffer from extreme short term memory disorder. Do we forget that we considered the natives of this continent to be savages and did everything in our power to wipe them out to occupy their lands? Do we forget that we ginned up the Mexican American war to take the Southwest from the Mexican nation?
Do we forget that we supported France in punishing Haiti with reparations for fighting for and winning their freedom from slavery?
Do we forget that we repressed the people of Haiti so that American sugar companies could have the cheapest labor in the most fertile land?
Do we forget that the Spanish American war based on falsehoods about the boiler explosion of the Maine?
Do we forget that the Spanish American war was an excuse to slaughter thousands of Filipinos to test out the Gatling gun?
All of these things we have done happened in the early history of the nation. There are so many more I could list but seriously, what's the point? If you don't know these things why would I expect you to believe anything I have to say?
I have always been a history buff and absolutely fascinated with other cultures. My POV may be skewed by wanting to see the world in a more inclusive picture but I don't think that's a bad thing.
I used to take those Zogby polls and the question where I never questioned my answer on one question.
Do you consider yourself a member of the state, the country, or the world? I'm sure you could guess my answer. I'm a member of the world because we're all in this together. Anything that affect anyone around the world will eventually affect me.
For those that follow Coal River Mountain Watch, you already know that we are all downstream or downwind from some sacrifice zone, where people are being killed for profit. For those that don't know, check out cmrw.org or acheact.org.
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