My Country, Right or WrongThe lost context of a well-known patriotic toast.
From the show
Famous QuotesThe phrase "My country, right or wrong" is often used to justify blind nationalism, but its original meaning was far more complex. The full 1816 quote from naval officer Stephen Decatur reveals a hope for righteous action, not just a call for unconditional allegiance. This story explores how a nuanced statement of patriotism was shortened and transformed into a justification for jingoism.
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