Brittany Liu Blog #7 American Nationalism

The role of education in the growth of American nationalism is one of Anderson's prominent points in Chapter 7 of Imagined Communities.  The intelligentsias played an important role in the economy and in the rise of nationalism.  A key factor was their bilingualism, which "meant access, through the European language-of-state, to modern Western culture in the broadest sense, and, in particular, to the models of nationalism" (Anderson 116).  Literacy and language became unifying elements of Americans who make up the great melting pot.  Education is the base of it all because it not only creates a community among those that are educated similarly, but it also teaches every student about the importance of America’s independence, thus promoting the expansion of nationalism.  

Bilingualism, especially in Spanish has become a controversial topic for America.  Spanish has become such an important language for citizens to know and it is almost becoming a necessity.  Many jobs in California require you to know Spanish and English.  Some believe these strict requirements are disrupting our American identity.  I think that it is great that we have many bilinguals, whether they are citizens are not, but Spanish is not a specifically required language in American schools.  Americans who were formally educated in English should have equal opportunities for jobs.  Language is a key factor in communities and nationalism.  If Spanish increases as a necessity it may need to have a more prominent role in our education system.  

Although our education system doesn't specifically target Spanish or any one language, it does give the option of many languages and adapts to all races.  We are taught to embrace the diversity of our country.  However, Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision depicts the discrimination an asian american woman faces when put in the spotlight of american nationalism.  It is hard to say whether it was her or her art that was being attacked.  She was born and educated in America and was taught the same nationalist ideals as every other American citizen.  Her credibility or her age should never have been questioned.  She proves that art is universal, influential and powerful and is not defined by race or gender.