Stepping out of the San Jose airport, I spied my driver waiting patiently with a little cardboard sign saying “Rick Steves.” Shaking his hand and identifying myself to him, I was interrupted by a good-looking, strapping young Marine in uniform. He apparently had seen the sign and was waiting to ambush me with a message. He said, “Excuse me, Mr. Steves. With the success of the coalition’s surge, do you take back your words about the war now?”
He caught me completely by surprise. He rattled me right out of a light and happy mood. I needed to respond. Without thinking much, I blurted out, “Surge or no surge, our war in Iraq is a waste of $2 trillion dollars and lots of blood.” As I hustled on toward my car, he responded almost as if saluting me, saying, “And we will fight and die to defend your freedom to say that.”
Settling into my car, I marveled at the illogic of soldiers “defending my freedom of speech” in Iraq. I wished I had time to actually talk with that Marine…about empire.
In preparation for a talk I was giving at the San Jose Commonwealth Club that afternoon, I looked up the meaning of “empire.” I found this definition: “An empire is a state that extends its dominion over a population that is distinct ethnically and culturally from the culture and ethnicity of that state’s center of power…usually with coercion.”
“Empire” certainly has a negative connotation — bloody, keeping people down, militaristic. The Bible teaches that empire and Christ were (and are) at odds.
While we are not your standard political empire, I see our nation acting like an empire. Our country, with four percent of the planet’s population, spends as much on its military as every other nation combined (and, these days, it’s tough to get elected without promising even more). We maintain military bases in 130 countries as if it’s our right to do so. In many foreign lands, the biggest and most fortified building in the entire country is the embassy of the USA. Only we can declare the natural resources of another nation on the opposite side of the globe (e.g., oil in the Middle East) “vital to our national security interests.” I believe it would be more honest to justify our foreign policy by calling those resources “vital to our material lifestyle.”
A friend of mine recently made a strong case trying to convince me that, as a taxpayer of a country at war, I am not an “innocent civilian” but a combatant. I do believe that, when we wage a war, every bullet that flies and every bomb that falls — whether justified or not — has my name on it. (That’s why sometimes I can’t just “lighten up.”)
In my office, I have a statue I purchased at a Christmas market in Central America. Every winter, poor children in places like El Salvador buy these painted clay figurines with three characters: a bloody slain peasant (the “Christ figure”) at the feet of two camouflaged, US-equipped-and-funded soldiers (tools of empire). Each Christmas, Christian peasants scoot these gory trios into their manger scenes along with Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds — empowered by this vivid (Liberation Theology) reminder of Roman Empire/American Empire parallels.
Good Americans can differ on whether our foreign policy is right or wrong, if our latest war is justified, and to what degree we are an empire. But it is clear that we are seen by others as an empire.
Empires always have angry people on their fringes nipping at them. Throughout history, the “Redcoats” of various empires have wished their enemies would line up in formation so they could carpet-bomb them. But any guerilla commander knows that, when fighting an empire, you strike from the bushes.
Empires call these people different things: “barbarians” eventually sacked Rome; “anarchists” assassinated the prince and eventually brought down the Hapsburgs; and today “terrorists” threaten America. Just as earlier empires broadened the meaning of those other terms, we will see more and more angry enemies of “our interests” labeled “terrorists” — whether villagers in the Niger Delta fighting international oil companies, Palestinians chafing at new walls, guerillas fighting US anti-drug forces in South America, or suicide bombers offended by Christian troops in their holy land.
As we fight “terrorists” on more and more fronts, I think it would be more honest if we called our military “forces of the empire” rather than “coalition forces.” (By the way, I found it extremely annoying that the USSR claimed to put down popular uprisings in Czechoslovakia and Hungary with “Warsaw Pact” troops — clearly a sham “coalition.”)
Thankfully, unlike empires of the past, we have the freedom (that the Marine in San Jose believes he is defending) to change a course that unites angry people against us. Using our democracy and freedom as a weapon, we can design a happier ending than that which finished the story of Rome, the Hapsburgs, and other long-gone empires.
I suspect that you’re going to get blasted by many of your readers for this blog entry, but I wanted to be one of the first to tell you that you struck a cord with me. This was one of the most eloquent descriptions of a national attitude that totally disregards the sovereignty and the autonomy of people from cultures and ideologies that differ from ours. I for one would prefer to bring our young soldiers home and to spend the money more usefully on programs such as health care.
I think that this war in Iraq is the turning point in US history. It will suffer for generations to come. Look at the dollar now.
Rick your words to that young marine correctly responded to his question. Thankfully his response was equally correct-our choice of viewpoint and our expressions of opinion are our right and heritage to defend. Looking forward to hearing you this weekend in edmonds. Larry from springfield.
That Marine must have been a real surprise. Well stated blog entry. I do think it’s time to train Iraq to run their country again, and use the dollars spent there on other important needs in the U.S. Happy trails!
Empire is a strong word. Almost propaganda-y. Hugo Chavez says the US is an empire so it gives him a degree of credibility with his population. Same goes for Castro. You ever hear one of his speeches? God, it’s terrible just rambling on and on. Same with Chavez. I think there is a link on youtube of the King of Spain telling him to “Shut up”. Both Chavez and Casto make anti-American Empire speeches and half the crowd is asleep, I think most of the crowd came for th free sangria. Didn’t The Soviet “Empire” have direct control of our beloved Europe for 40 years. Didn’t Kruschev say he would ” Bury the US”. Wrong. Didn’t happen. Didn’t Hitler use the term Empire? We all know how that went. Is America an Empire? Maybe. But we will don’t have a Death Star.
Rick, I think you’re a great travel writer. From your job touring other countries, you are able to offer a unique perspective on the foreign perception of America. (Sorry, now I have to disagree with you…) However, I would never admit I live in an “empire.” America, with its market economy, is a country that leads the world in developing technology and pharmaceuticals that have saved millions of lives around the globe. Many of our foreign bases protect citizens from their own foreign governments, and help to prop up fragile democracies that would otherwise succumb to extremist groups. America remains one of the few countries that people, with unwavering dedication and hard work, can come to rise to success and happiness that would be completely unfathomable in their own countries. (JUST ask the other students in my medical school class – hard work pays off). I was against the war at the beginning. We are in it now. Suggesting we are an “empire” is arguing the wrong point. The point now is how to preserve as much human life – Iraqi, American, and whatever ethnicity – as utterly possible. I simply don’t believe after ruining the infrastructure of a country divided along religious and ethnic lines into Sunni, Shiite, and Kurds we can simply leave and hope to preserve the MOST life possible. No Mr. Steves we are inviting the type of human rights atrocities that are usually reserved for central Africa. We are inviting a destabilization of a region that has the capacity to develop and buy nuclear weapons. Remeber, Britian, France, and the U.S. turned a blind eye to the rise of Nazism in the 1930’s with catastrophic results. Bottom line is that no one can predict the future of Iraq. It’s fine to argue against war at the beginning, but now that we are in it we owe Iraq a fighting chance to develop a democracy. It may be a beacon of freedom in an otherwise autocratic region. An “Empire” should carry such a heavy responsibility.
AMEN!
Excellent post, Rick. That figurine is heartbreaking. I also admire the comments I have seen so far for their thoughtful nature and lack of flaming.
As a historian who is currently living in Haiti, I see first hand what despotic rule can cause. Despite my own periodic disagreements with US foreign policy, no state in history has ever possessed the same power, while maintaining such care and compassion in their military opperations. The fact that we provide better food to jailed combatents than they generally receive at home and we even provide them with their holy text and a prayer rug is a testament to that. Our current opps have only become more humane and strategic over recent history e.g. 1940’s internment camps. Furthermore, more people in the city of Detroit are raped or murdered in one year than soldiers killed in Iraq over the same period. You obviously do not realize the thousands of lives that have been saved because of the previous government being removed. I will not contest that we should admit our complete rationale for invading Iraq, but even if it is oil is that so wrong. France was willing to continue to allow the Kurdish genocide because Saddam owed them money. We need oil until we get off of IC engines in cars and stop using plastic; however, until then, if the US goes into depression the entire world will follow. Finally, the terrible treatment of the conscribed troops coming home in Vietman has had a lasting impact on our society; Mr. Steves, despite your disagreement with the United States decision to go into war, you of all people should remember that you should be full of grace and seasoned with salt in your conversation… respect, and honor these troops who have taken an oath to defend our constitution and obey our superior. 9 times out of 10 their efforts are helping us. On a final note, your blog entry is ill conceived and terrible for your business. You aren’t in uniform and you have no qualification to pontificate about historical matters, stick to what your for profit travel website is for, namely, travel.
I very much agree with you. Over the last few months I have had the opportunity to visit friends in Sweden, Switzerland, France and Sicily (that are all citizens of those countries not expatriates). To a person they shared this same belief. They believed that the American people were good and were confounded that the leadership was so lacking in integrity and believed that the Bush/Chaney administration was really all about creating an empire. In the 80’s everyone wanted to come to the US, to visit New York, Hollywood, and go to Disneyland. In the 90’s they were so glad that the risk of the cold war was over and had high expectations about what new and wonderful would come from the US culturally, technically and economically. On this last trip to a person everyone was confused, saddened and angry with what the US had done. Both the war and all of what they perceive as all the dishonesty surrounding it and continuing still. People kept asking why the citizens of the US were not doing anything to stop it – I did not have an answer.
You are entitled to your opinion on this subject just like every other American. However, I suggest when it comes to your publications that you stick to travel and leave your politics at home. People do not buy your books and equipment, nor visit your web site, because they are interested in your political opinion. They buy them because you are a travel authority on Europe. It would appear you have become the latest in a long line of widely recognized people (Barbara Streisand comes to mind) who have decided to turn that recognition into a political bully pulpit, and yiou are now straying wildly from your area of expertise. If you want to talk politics – run for office, but please don’t waste my time on your travel site with your political drivel. Jack – Who was Ambushed in Florida by Rick Steves’ Blog
Thank you! You are an educated and well spoken person and I hope more people have a chance to read your blog entry. You have a unique perspective and I for one can appreciate the breath you took to step back and reflect before posting that entry. Very well done. I believe there are many in this world who agree with you. Signing off from Canada….k
After attending Rick’s talk at the Commonwealth Club in San Jose I am so glad that a major part of his speach is now in written form for all to read. To be a smart and thoughtful traveller I would think it is necessary to not only understand the politics of where you are travelling to, but also the politics where you are from. As Jack from Florida correctly noted, people buy Rick’s books because he is the travel authority on Europe. The fact that Rick said what he did in HIS blog speaks volumes as to what is really going on in the world, and I tend to believe that someone who spends almost half his time outside of the U.S. has a pretty good grasp on what the rest of the world thinks about us. Maybe our president could learn a thing or two in this respect. I also have a feeling that the people who are offended by Rick’s (correct) take on current foreign policy are the ones we probably don’t want to bump into on our European vacations anyway.
Seems you’ve read “The Sorrows of Empire” and have taken the message to heart. Some of his notions go a bit too far and he does have a book to sell, but it is very hard to argue with the numbers–if they are accurate. It is a “slow bleed” on our youth, our economy, and the spirit of our nation. The subtext of your post indicates that this soldier got to you, as well he should. That said, being the father of two sons in their twenties and a veteran myself, I agree with you.
Jack, would you have written the same response had Rick expressed an opinion you agreed with? With travel comes exposure to other trains of thought, political and non-political. How will you cope with it overseas if you can’t cope with it here?
Rick: I agree with those other readers who took you to task for using your well deserved image as a good travel expert as a springboard to air your personal opinion on the war in Iraq. I have the same impression of the majority of well known entertainment figures in Hollywood. I am a vetern of World War II, and although I was not a combantant, I spent four years serving my country as a volunteer, two years in the European Theater of Operations. Had we not defeated Hitler and his buddies, yours and my life may well have been different that we enjoy now. I too am glad I was able to contribute to your ability to say what you wish when you wish. That Marine was right, I salute he and his fellow militry personnel. Irving, Redwood City, CA
Well said.
The comments to your absurd post are almost worse than your post itself. E.g. — Dearest Jennifer, the dollar’s decline in value has nothing to do with our war effort in Iraq. With respect (maybe not the best word) to Rick — you truly do not understand world politics. To suggest we are an empire is absurd, and patently false. We have no interest in taking over countries. We have not made Iraq a territory; rather, we allowed Iraqis the opportunity to set up a government. Our goals are nothing like the Romans, the Barbarians or the Hapsburgs. Suggesting otherwise is simply a lie. People in the world hate us. Not becuase we intervened in Iraq. And, we’ll continue to defend ourselves in spite of your sissyface attitude. We do indeed have military bases around the world. You suggest that somehow this is a bad thing. Have you ever asked the South Koreans, for example, if they want us there? (Hint: They do). So, Rick, please go back to promoting tourist traps in Rothenburg. You’re mildly competent at that.
Wow. Looking for a few harpoons? Well, before they hit, I want to applaud you for your insight and incisive thinking. I was just looking at my sons photos from his tour in Iraq a couple of years ago and got my blood stirred again. And, this morning was thinking about 1968 when Lyndon Johnson discovered what GHB should have known had he studied hard – you can’t pay for bullets and bread at the same time for very long without the economy tanking into recession. Well, I admire your “speaking out” but the San Jose airport leaves a lot to be desired as a platform for debate, more like a place to get on board and continue elsewhere.
Whatever outcome the surge has, we should never forget that the war was based on false information – if not lies – and the U.S. made a preemptive strike on a nation which had nothing to do with 9/11, resulting not only in the loss of approx. 4000 U.S. soldiers, but the loss of hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians of Iraq, the virtual destruction of the country itself, and the creation of the seeds for future confrontation and hatred around the world. Yes, the U.S. is an empire in all the worst sense of the meaning and I never thought in my early years – I am now 86 – when I mistakenly thought of our nation as the noble shining light of the world,that I would be so disillusioned by our aggression and combativeness around the world. How can George Bush sleep at night? Thank you, Rick Steves, for your honest opinion in “Ambushed in San Jose”.
Rick, I respect you as a travel authority, but please leave your political views at home. I don’t support the war in Iraq either. And there are times when I hate America. I’ve travelled to Italy twice in the past year and half, and would love to pick up and move there. But I don’t (and neither do you). Why? Because America is my home, and I love it. You bash America a lot, I notice, when I listen to your NPR show, and it makes me uncomfortable. I criticize Bush along with other Europeans I meet in my travels but I would NEVER have a discussion like you did with that Marine.I have nothing but the ultimate respect for our soldiers for taking orders and risking their lives for Americans and our “empire”. It belittles all that they do for us, and I’m embarrassed for you.
Steve, you are so right. It makes me so sad because I spent the early part of my life admiring the U.S. and I did see it as the beacon of light in the world. Then there was the Soviet Union (I used to live next door to it), and compared to it, the U.S. did look like the knight in the shining armor. I came to the U.S. 17 years ago full of love for this country and I had no trouble loving it during the Clinton years. Now I just can not fathom how this country has turned into such an evil empire. It is using the world for selfish purposes and justifying it with lies. I have a harder and harder time living in this country. I feel betrayed. My own Finland looks so beautiful and uncorrupt these days to me and I really want to go back. The weak dollar makes it just a dream for me for now. I can not wait to leave. This is not the country that I used to love with passion. People that do not recognize what is being done to this country are living in denial.
Don’t forget to link capitalism to imperialism, if we are going to go back to that old Spanish-American War discussion that is the empire building country lets get all of it. If anything the US is a new type of system where you have a democratic lead force attempting to make that political belief available world-wide. The places where we have bases are all there by the request of the local government, excluding Cuba. We have left multiple countries when requested by their governments.
Tamra, read the blog again. Rick clearly describes being approached by the Marine first and put into a position he wasn’t prepared for. If we aren’t prepared to criticize our “leadership,” how will they ever know we’re paying any attention at all?
Rick, I too admire your insight into travel in Europe. But disagree with your views of America entirely. I support the war in Iraq currently because we started it, incorrectly in hindsight, and it would be wrong to pull out and leave those people in the current condition of the country. You think people hate us now? Leaving there wouldn’t make it better for our public image. My heart aches when I hear of an American service person being killed in defense of my freedom. But I honestly believe that it’s better to have the terrorists fight our military over there instead of bomb our civilians over here. We need to get our act together, we need to be the good guys again, but we can’t ingore the fact that we have vital interests in other parts of the world that require us to have a military presence. It’s always been like that and it always will. We need to face that fact and go about it the right way. We need Marines like the one you met to allow us the freedom we take so much for granted. Freedom really isn’t free and we should accept that and say thank you.
Oh, the irony of people being told to keep their political views out of 1) their own blogs in 2) the land of the free (speech).
‘Good on ya’ Rick! The world in which we live simply IS unjust. At the end of the day, it falls to honest people like yourself to declare ‘The Emperor Has No Clothes’. The popularity of a thing has nothing to do with it. The simple question is: Is this thing right? Is this thing fair? To use a supportive folk saying that [I think] comes from a European Nation: ‘long may you run!’
WWII was the last time an American in uniform fought for our freedoms. Everything since has been for empire. It doesn’t matter how many people our “free market” has saved with drugs and doctors, Peter in Tampa. We have killed many more. Millions! In Vietnam, Korea, Iraq, Panama… Does that Marine, or anyone here who supports him, actually believe that a bunch of cave dwellers armed with an AK47 they stole of a dead soviet in the 80’s is going to come over here and take over the most heavily defended country in the world? Really? That tells me that the state of education in this country is much worse than I thought. The people of Iraq have thanked us for getting rid of Saddam. Now they – the vast majority of them – want us to go. The only thing that Marine is defending now is Dick Cheney’s right to get $100 per barrel of oil for his friends in Saudi Arabia. Finally, the idea that somehow the people we are fighting in Iraq would come over here and attack us if we weren’t in Iraq is absolutely hilarious. The first sign of the fall of any empire is the ignorance of its populace. Plenty of terrorists are going to attack us here, no matter where we are over there. The two have nothing to do with each other. A young man on the Colbert Report last night, who works for the state department, has a book out about the youth of the Middle East. The majority of people over there are under 30. They don’t necessarily hate us. But if we keep dropping bombs on them while Al Qaeda gives them video games, we will have a big problem. We need to offer constructive alternatives to these young people to show our good will toward them, instead of kicking them into the dirt, torturing them, holding them in prison without rights or proof of their wrong-doing, and killing their families with bullets and bombs that do, indeed, have our names on them. All of our names.
I agree with Angela. This is a blog, not one of Rick Steve’s guidebooks or tv show. It’s nice to have a true opinion presented on this blog and not some safe, politically correct comments. Even if we don’t agree with what is said, we should be open minded enough to seriously listen to someone who has spent his life traveling and talking to people from around the world.
I don’t understand people who want to keep travel and politics seperate? Every trip I have taken, people have engaged us in these discussions – we have had respectful, courteous and engaging converstions about the war and Bush with people from Australia, France, German and Italy. When two completely different worlds collide, why can’t we discuss our differences? Isn’t that part of the experience. I have to say, I don’t have the answer about how to support our troops. I asked my dad how hard it was to fight in Vietnam knowing it was an unpopular war? In my heart, I honestly thought he would say it didn’t affect him – that he was there to do a job and was disconnected from what was going on at home. I was wrong. He said it made what he was doing that much harder. That breaks my heart – but what can I do? Should I remain silent about an administration and a war that I disagree with? Authority unchecked is sooooo dangerous. Our voice is our power and it is our responsibility to use it. I believe that. I never ever want to make someone feel the way my dad did fighting in a foreign country. I have nothing but admiration and I want my dad to know that. I have not found the right answer to that – but I know, I have to raise my voice and fight the fight that I can. If I would choose to blindly accept this administration’s policies – we will be in more conflicts and our own civil liberties will be threatened. As our troops fight to protect our freedom – we have a responsibility to do the same. The American Justice system does not balance itself. It needs its citizens to keep it in check.
Good job Rick! By invading Iraq based on lies, we have given the extremists in the Middle East fuel for their recruiting efforts. Also, I was there at the exchange, when we gave Osama Bin Laden 1.1 billion dollars in cash, loaded in seven connex boxes, in the town of Peshwar in 1984. This is the money he later used to fund and direct operations against the United States because of our refusal to close military bases on Aljeezra, (The Peninsula). Osama issued two fatwahs to attack America unless these bases were closed. Their belief is that no infidel is to be on any land that had been occupied by the Great Prophet Muhammad ibn abd Allah. If the U.S. continues to meddle, fund, arm, influence, and invade other contries, as we are doing now, we will become Rome, more isolated, and distant over time.
I really love the use of the phrase “vital interests” conveniently when it comes to propping up dictators and countries depending on the U.S. needs at the time. At the same time this country has no money or interest in taking care of it’s own people. It is the only rich nation that does not have healthcare for all it’s citizens. Taking a road trip 2 years ago across the Eastern U.S. I was shocked to see poverty everywhere. It is such a shame, because this country could truly be a great nation. I predict the future for this country to be like what happened to Rome. It is already on it’s way down. I believe soon oil will not be tied to dollar any longer. Euro was started to compete with the dollar and boy have they succeeded. The currencies were about even 5 years ago and now you need about $ 1.50 to buy one euro. U.S. is in big trouble because of the short sighted policies of this administration and the greed of the banks with no oversight. I read the blogs written in the e-paper of Finland and I can hardly believe my eyes reading them. They are so full of hate for the deeds of this country. This was not the case when I left. Most people admired the U.S. except a few commies. Things have changed drasticly in the last few years. I am so ashamed living in this country. In the old days people would flock to come here for vacations now they are all going to Thailand. The planes here are full of Eastern Europeans. The Western Europeans are going elsewhere and I can see why.
Rick, My wife and I are big fans and have planned all of our recent trips around your travel guides. And, even though I don’t agree with some of your political positions, we will continue using your guides on our travels. I have to say that the opinions you express here are completely wrong. The United States is not an empire as defined in any dictionary. If we are the evil empire that you say we are it sure is strange that so many people are trying to come here. Furthermore, the Marine is correct, he is defending your right to be able to express your opinions and not have any fear of reprisal. Your position, and those of other liberal minded people, tends to forget or ignore facts that have led most Americans and legislators to support the war at least at first. I would grant that we should be out of there by this time but I do not believe we can cut and run now. You tend to ignore the fact that Sadam was murdering his own people and that 9/11 ever happened. I was against the war in Viet Nam but I don’t ignore the fact that after we left the very things happened to that area that we feared. That is, thousands of people were murdered and executed. I don’t claim to be the historian that you are but I do believe that World War II would not have been so devastating if the U.S. had gotten involved earlier. And finally, my last argument would be that before the U.S. assumed world leadership, there was a major world conflict about every 30 to 40 years. That no longer is the case. I know I jumped around a lot. Thanks for letting me express my opinion. And, thank God for that Marine and for his service to our country. R Johnson
Great post Rick. Thank you for continuing to express your options openly in a public forum.
You need to look up other countries’ spending on their defense forces in relation to how much they spend on non-defense items like health and education for example. Everyone should look up how much of some countries budget goes towards their defense budget and how little towards things their people need to live good lives (North Korea is a good example). Many of those countries will be countries torn by strife, hunger, civil wars, etc.
It is a cop-out to compare yourself with countries like North Korea. Compare with Western European countries. I know, you know, you are wrong and just looking for excuses. If you look at yourself in the mirror you will know it is wrong. Wrong is always wrong no matter what the excuse is. It took me a long time to open my eyes but I am not closing them any longer.
Anyone who thinks that the US does not have an Empire, and that the people who are unfortunate enough to live near American bases (all 700+ of them) want them there, should read not only “Sorrows of Empire”, but Chalmers Johnson’s other books: “Blowback” and “Nemesis”. And since the war in Iraq was a war of choice, a preemptive war justified by lies, I really can’t see how fighting it is protecting my freedom of speech, which in any case feels a little dubious these days with all the eavesdropping this government is getting away with.
Rick, Your thoughts on yhe US Empire are very thought provoking. I was surprised to see that type of commentary on your blog,I agree. thanks for your shows and other information about Europe. Mike
After spending 5 weeks in Europe this summer, using only your guidebooks, I look forward to your blog every day. I agree with some of your ideas on Iraq. I was against it from the beginning and still not completely sold on it. I disagree though that the United States is an empire. The basis of your arguement is the US military makes it an empire. An empire according to Webster is ruled by a single supreme authority. Last time I checked the United States has a Legislative branch which has most of the power. That branch, which peacefully changed power last year has been ruled by a different party. In one year that single suprmeme authority, as you have labled him, will be out of office by the decision of the American people. As for the military aspect of your arguement, you claim that we have troops in 130 countries. One of the those countries was Bosnia and now Kosovo. The UN operation there to stop the fighting consisted of 60,000 troops, 20,000 of which were US troops. I went back to your blog of June 21, 2007 where you wrote how much better it is that people are visiting and not killing each other. That could not have been accomplished without the US military.
I feel that most of my opinions have already been stated except one. Perhaps because I am a Viet vet, I am particularly sensitive about the opinion you expressed concerning “the illogic of soldiers”. That was quite a sweeping comment, covering a sizeable part of US citizens. It is one thing to argue logically with someone and continue to disagree, but to consider someone’s opinion illogical just because you don’t agree with it and then to brush every soldier in Iraq, and, by implication, everywhere else was scary. When I returned from Viet Nam along with so many others, we were spat on, ridiculed and refused appropriate medical care. Today, over 30% of our homeless population is comprised of Viet vets. You might not agree with my reasons for risking my life, but please respect me for having the conviction to do so.
Sorry Rick, that you were so upset by a Marine in an airport. It is tough when people who have to put their lives on the line confront you on your political positions for which you risk very little. I do see some financial risks for a travel writer to espouse political opinions that may not be shared with his customers. I guess it may be time for you to get out of the travel business and run for political office so that you can do even more than posting on your travel blog.
Dear Misguided ones, I said look up countries defense spending and compare it with other spending. Any country, western, eastern. That’s right, read what you want in my comment through your bias. I am only talking about spending comparisons. Not commenting on politics in my comment. And Rick, you didn’t have to say anything. Or did what you did. Whatever.
Amen- I agree with your comment to the marine. He was out of line approaching you as he did, your response was appropriate. And I agree with your comments about “Empire”.
Rick, I applaud you for being willing to take the heat when people speak the truth others do not want to hear. In the last 7 years our nation has squandered the enormous amount of good will that our nation had earned in the eyes of much of the world. People do not want to hear this, and they want to believe it is only persons such as Castro or Chavez who are critical of our adventures. IT will take decades for our nation to regain the respect people had for us at the beginning of this century. Keep speaking the truth. God bless you.
Rick, The war against the Taliban protects me, but the Iraq war does not. Thank you for your thoughtful words.
Kudos to you Rick! As I read your blog, I could hear my voice speak your words. If someone has never traveled outside of the continental US, they have no appreciation of how the other half of the world truly views us. When my family and I travel overseas, we try not to portray “the ugly American.” Thanks for speaking your mind. And mine.
Since I don’t frequent anti-American sites often, I am always surprised when I run across them. Rick’s post is a perfect example of why our educational system is really failing to do its job but, it is a great thing that people can be as ignorant as they wish to be and we still have these great soldiers to help protect that capability. You military hating, anti-Americans here should be thankful for having been born in the United States of America… though, I doubt a one of you are.
What a great entry. Thank you Rick for your thoughts. We can recognize the negative implications of empire when we speak of Rome, but we cannot as easily recognize our own corporate empire. Globalization may have helped bring about our empirical behavior, but America’s corporate leadership grew over the last century and has helped us to wear the emporer’s cloak. Those who doubt that should read “War is a Racket” By Marine Major General Smedley Butler, published in 1936 (which may be read free online). “The surge has sucked all of the flexibility out of the system,” Army Chief of Staff George Casey said in an interview this week. “And we need to find a way of getting back into balance.” That doesn’t sound like success to me. Working or not this surge, this war is a racket. And our emperical behavior is shameful. Keep up your message about creating peace through travel Rick. There are millions who do not have the privilege to travel and speak out, so we who can must do it for them. Travel is for opening one’s mind. Sounds as if some folks could use a little more of it.
Rick, Great post. To me, the most important reason why we should leave Iraq is that the people there want us to leave. Every credible survey shows this. Unfortunately, this fact is not reported much here. No matter what might happen if we leave (and I personally think there’s a good chance that violence would go DOWN, not up), it’s not our choice to make. If we truly believed in democracy for Iraq, then we would respect their wishes.
Years ago I read an essay by Rick Steves about how travel could be a force not just for pleasure but for good in the world. I liked the idea, but was skeptical. Today with gutsy posts like this one–certainly no benefits to ETBD from a marketing point of view to expressing political opinions–I am coming around. At minimum Rick’s “back door” travel philosophy–humble, open, close to the ground–is congruent with considering the world’s point of view. Beyond that, I’m not sure, but it is a privilege to see the values and beliefs that inform and animate Rick’s vocation.
As everyone else on here, I am a Rick Steves fan. I sometimes agree with his opinion and other times I don’t. For those of you complaining about Rick’s opinion on this, it is HIS blog. It is not on the main page of his website with all his info on Europe. A blog is for his use to share whatever he wants. And all of you clicked on a separate link to come hear to read his specific thoughts, not travel information. With that said, I am torn about this war. In hindsight, it looks like a bad idea. However, not as many people were thinking that when this war started. And I agree with other people on here that even if we were wrong to invade Iraq, how irresponsible would it be to leave them in the mess they have now. No one advocates that with their kids or friends. You don’t sep into someting, mess everything up, and say “oops sorry” and leave it to those you messed it up to fix your mess. Maybe our country just admitting that this hasn’t gone as planned and we could have handled this better would be a great start for other nations and the M.E. to hear. Maybe at that point, others would be willing to step in and see how they can help as well. I am not saying we were wrong for getting rid of Saddam. But I am not saying we were right for doing this with the motives and reasons we had. But we are here. Others have said America is not an empire because we are more caring and compassionate than the rulers of previous empires. So maybe those words are a little strong. I don’t have the answers here. I think we need to enlist others for help and admit things didn’t go the way we wanted and say I am sorry. It won’t fix anything but admitting some fault in this could go a long way to building better relationships with countries around the world and joining together to help Iraq.
Steves: After all these years you have totally disappointed me. The blood of millions of Americans has provided you with the opportunity to make zillions of dollars. Have you ever served in the military? What have you ever done other than write travel books, which I have found (after a couple of tries) on 60 trips to Europe, basically worthless!
Can’t stand to read most of the replies…I stopped after the first ten or so. I agree with Rick that the war has been a shameful sacrifice of nearly 4,000 American lives for no justifiable cause…but I also understand that the Marine believes he is fighting for my freedom to disagree with the war (and, to a certain extent, he is). But to those of you who chastise Rick for expressing his own personal disapproval of the war, colored not only by his opinions but his experiences, please remember this: one of the primary foundations of our country is the right to free speech, the right to disagree with the government, openly and in public, without suffering as a result. If you don’t like Rick’s opinion, that’s fine. But if you don’t like the fact that he feels free in this great country to express his opinion, even if it’s at odds with yours, you need to re-examine what it means to be an American. Really, chastising someone for espousing an unpopular (well, not really) viewpoint? That’s un-American and unfair.
Awesome post Rick! I’m glad people are finally standing up and publicly calling it what it is.
Nothing much to add but this: Judging from the responses, America has turned a corner. A year ago, when Rick posted something like this, it was 3 “Rick you are a commie†responses for every 2 “Rick, we mostly agree†responses. Judging from the latest topic, the numbers have flipped. Most seem to now agree that the war was a bad idea sold on false pretences. Whether you are a big W-booster or have had enough of him, the fact remains: a disastrous war, giant budget deficit, a free falling dollar, a recession (o.k., we are teetering on the brink) and several lesser calamities (I’m sure the people of New Orleans don’t consider their calamity “lesserâ€) happened on his watch. “The buck stops here†and all that. It seems very likely that the Democrats will win the White House in November (Hooray, I say). The next President will inherit a mess and –I’m sure—will also make mistakes. God bless him or her. But at least, thankfully, this embarrassing and painful chapter will be behind us.
YIKES!. Hey, it’s Rick’s blog and he can post whatever he wants. If he risks losing business over it, then that’s his right (a courageous one at that). He can post a politcal rant if he wants, talk about his business, or give us a recipe for cassoulet (ooh, some of that would go down good right now). A suggestion for those who get so wound up over the political stuff on this travel website. When it’s obvious that the entry is on politics, STOP READING, and just move on. You won’t get so worked up, feel the need to defend America and wait because a travel one will be posted in a few days. It’s all good!!!
If America is an Empire, than I’m proud of my role as an Imperial Trooper (along with our NATO friends), helping to end -hopefully- the last vestige of European war in the Balkans in the late 1990s.
i love ricks travel books but he is dead wrong when he says “I marveled at the illogic of soldiers “defending my freedom of speech†in Iraq” that Marine was dead on…I am a Army Vet but proudly tell that Marine Semper Fidelis IT’S THE SOLDIER/VETERAN It’s the soldier/veteran, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of RELIGION. It’s the soldier and veteran, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the PRESS. It’s the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of SPEECH. It’s the soldier/veteran, not the lawyer, who have given us the right to a FAIR TRIAL. It’s the soldier/veteran, not the police, who has given us the right to be SECURE IN OUR PERSONS. It’s the soldier/veteran, not the campus organizer, who has given us the freedom to DEMONSTRATE. It’s the soldier/veteran, not the politician, who DEFENDS OUR NATION. It’s the soldier/veteran who salutes the flag and serves under the flag, who gave his oath to support and DEFEND The Constitution and our Nation against all enemies, foreign and domestic. It’s the soldier/veteran, willing to give his life to protect your freedoms and mine, whose coffin is draped by the flag, who gives the protester the right to burn the flag. It’s the soldier/veteran, with faith in God, who has given us all our FREEDOMS
Actually Des, it is the constitution that gives us those things. The current administration is doing its best to malign those rights–and where is the military in defending our rights to Habeus Corpus, protecting us from ubnlawful searches and seizures, wiretapping, and a miriade of other crimes? They are caught up in a war based on lies, wrapping themselves in the delusionaly self-righteous flag of “defending our freedoms” when Iraq had absolutely zero threat potential to the US. Joseph Goebells said that “a lie becomes true when it is repeated often enough and loud enough to cover any opposition.”
I love Rick’s site, blog, and comments. Although I disagree with his political perspective. it is wonderful that he expresses it intelligently, passionately, and clearly. Being a great writer helps. This blog has permitted (for the most part) an expression of views that can be evaluated, ignored or rebutted. Having served in Germany, I can state that our relationship with our German neighbors is good (most of the time). We eat, drink, and play ball together. Unlike tourists we become part of their communities and enjoy each other’s culture. Although the Germans would not participate in Iraq, they provided M.P.s (police) to cover our bases so that we could send our M.P.s to Iraq. The relationship, rights and obligations of US forces are negotiated with the host country not by the military but the state department. When we close bases in Europe it is a sad day for the local community, and it not is only about money. But what good are these bases? Europeans can see us as real people, including our faults. They provide support for our efforts elsewhere. (You may not think we should be there but we are. As a previous writer said: We bought it. It is now ours.) Most important, US forces Europe has inhibited the development of a European military. The EU is highly bureaucratic. It could be controlled by charismatic leader from the strongest country (economically this is Germany). An EU with a population, GDP, and culture similar to ours, and with concerns of immigrants from the east, controlled by Germany may not be in our interests. It would rationally need and build a military equal to ours. I think that happened a couple of times in the last century. I do not have first hand knowledge of US forces in Asia. About the middle east: Boarders are traditionally settled by war. Israel will have peace with its neighbors when they accept its right to exist. Is there another country whose right to exist is seriously questioned?
Isn’t history really written by those who won and those who lost? I hope that we’re on the winning side, in spite of what other countries may say. Sure, there are things this administration may have done wrong, and sure, this is an expensive war (what war isn’t expensive?), but what’s the alternative? Should we let those forces in the world who seek to destroy not only the U.S., but other democracies (hey, Europe, Japan, and South Korea, are you listening?), run rough-shod across the globe? Education, dialogue and good-will are vital ingredients to true peace in the world, and need to be used more effectively by western democracies, but there ARE countries (e.g. Iran, North Korea), and underground movements (al Qaeda) who pose real threats to peace and security around the globe, and need to be dealt with harshly and swiftly. I don’t think we act like an empire so much as trying to show the world that although our style of democracy may not be perfect – the Founding Fathers knew this – it IS the best form of government out there; one that gives all of its’ citizens a share in society. America was blasted by some, at home and abroad, for entering into WWI, WWII. What would the outcome of those two conflicts have been like if we didn’t get involved? When there are things like hurricanes, tsnumais, typhoons, etc., which country consistently sends the most aid and resources to the scene? The world needs to get over the fact that we’re the a blessed and generous country. They may not wish to swap passports with us – that’s to each other’s benefit! – and we have lots of faults, too, but there is no bigger helper in the world than us. Ancient Rome didn’t come to help, they came to bloodlet and plunder; The Hapsburg monarchy didn’t come to help, they came to bloodlet and plunder. The Spanish/British/French Empires? Land and gold. America wants the world to be a better place for all. In 200+ years, we continue to set that example.
Ryan M. you surely have a very rosy picture of the U.S. or then you have been brainwashed. What about the slavery? U.S. is not as honorable as you think. U.S. is after the oil these days and may not be as openly plundering but a whole lot of questionable stuff is done under the cover of the U.S. “vital interest”. At the same time U.S. is not the biggest aid giver compared to it’s GNP by far. You are just fed the stuff from cradle to grave that U.S. is the best and the most honorable but that is just brainwashing. Facts do not support it. Rick is so right to point out some of the problems that the brainwashed massed fail to see.
Two issues beg comment. The first issue is intransigence. It’s interesting that it really doesn’t matter what happens or for what reason. Many will believe that the Iraq war is/was/always will be wrong. Ironically, intransigence is exactly what many accuse the Bush administration of being guilty of. The second issue is inconsistency. People who oppose the war in Iraq didn’t seem to notice that troops were fighting and dieing in Iraq during the ENTIRE Clinton administration unilaterally supporting U.N. sanctions. During the last administration our soldiers fought numerous wars all over the world. Where was the indignance then? I can’t help but surmise that much of today’s anti-war banter reflects an irrational hatred of Bush rather than a balanced criticism of America’s foreign policy. I’m not pro-war or even pro-Iraq war but I can see why we are there based on the information available to Bush when he made the decision (information that both Clinton and Kerry viewed and drew the same conclusion). I’m also concerned that literally thousands of violations of U.N. arms sanctions have been discovered since the invasion (including active chemical warheads) which the media chooses to ignore. The best way to approach issues is with truth and fairness. Our camps won’t let either enter the discussion. A European once said when they talk politics it’s about becoming right not being right. America seems to be getting worse not better on resolving our own differences through rational political discourse.
Kaarina, you’re right, slavery Was an abhorrent evil, yet you fail to list more: forceably removing Indians from their lands; neglecting for years a woman’s right to vote; Prohibition; Japanese internment camps; sodomy laws; How far do you want me to go? The U.S. has done, or left undone, many things that have caused harm to its own, and others. Yes, that’s true! But, I will refer to my previous statement once more, and expand: we DID fight, and win, a Civil war that ABOLISHED slavery; we DID eventually extend the rights to ALL citizens to vote; we DID see the foolishness of outlawing liquor, and end that stupid period in our history; we DID see how dumb it was to intern Japanese-Americans; many personal civil liberties prohibitions (such as what happens between two people in the privacy of their own homes) HAVE been overturned, and we helped save Europe last century. Twice. The beauty of our founding father’s wishes, that our Constitution – the best ever written and implented at any time in hsitory – continues to be a source of exploration, refinement and flexibility. A huge attitudinal difference, historically, between America and Europe has been America’s willingness to say “yes, let’s try it, and if it fails, we’ll think of something else and try it again”, whereas Europe has typically said, “No, it failed, forget it, we’ve been bombed to rubble, human beings are fallable beyond repair, so what’s the point?”. FYI, I’m a student of European and American history, Kaarina. I’m familiar with most of the monachries, revolutions, and movements throughout both histories. I’m no idealist, rather I review results, and on scale, I’d say the U.S. has done more good than harm throughout its history, and I think the world is better off for it.
Marcus, the supreme authority (the president) will be out of office in one year not by the decision of the American people, but by CONSTITUTIONAL requirement, having served the maximum of two full terms. We blew our chance to be rid of him in 2004. Will people go back and reread the blog? Rick says that while we are not the standard political empire, he sees us behaving that way. And he further notes that “Good Americans can differ” on our foreign policy, etc.
Rick, I read your column and blog for learning about travel, an expensive LEISURE activity that I have worked 50 years to finally be able to afford. I DON’T read it to get your thoughts on politics, war, and religion. Might you consider having two blogs, one for travel and one for your personal opinions?
literally thousands of violations of U.N. arms sanctions have been discovered since the invasion (including active chemical warheads) References to support this, please. (Other than Dick Cheney or Rumsfeld in 2003/4.)
Ryan M., I can not deny that In I and II WW U.S. was truly doing the right thing (except for the atomic boms) but since the fall of the Soviet Union it is hard to ignore that U.S. is not as good as it looked next to the Soviet Empire. I grew up loving the U.S. as and hating the Soviets next door. It is much easier now to see the real picture and it is not as pretty as it used to look to me. I truly do not see the American constitution and system being the greatest thing ever. It was great when it first came to being but in modern world the the American system is run by special interest and I can not see it being the greatest. Two party system is antiquated in my view. Nothing gets done because of it except bickering about things that have no real value in the lives of regular people (abortion, gay marriage, etc.) I come from a country with multi party system and consensus is vorked, on important issues to the people and the country, with coalition governments. To me that makes so much more sence. Also, there presidental elections are voted with direct votes with no electoral college. Electoral college is not a good system of voting. We saw that first hand – W would not have become a president had there been direct voting in the 2000 elections. Thinking about that, makes me wonder how things would be now, if that moran would not be the president. I am currently reading, what he has uttered over his years of being the president, in my count down calendar, and I can proudly say that this man is an idiot. It speaks volumes about the american people that he was elected again after the first term. From that I can come to the next issue of why I think the empire is about to fall: The voluntary dumbing down of the populus in this country. U.S. may have been great but is headed downhill when it’s people fare poorly compared to other countries in the world in education. Here the education is centered around sports and not knowledge.
Rick’s detractors aren’t reading his words carefully. This is what he says: “Good Americans can differ on whether our foreign policy is right or wrong, if our latest war is justified, and to what degree we are an empire. But it is clear that we are seen by others as an empire.” Kaarina’s eloquent posts, speaking as a disillusioned European who once loved the US, support his assertion. Are there any NON-AMERICANS out there who disagree with Rick’s comments about empire? Rick knows that most Americans aren’t comfortable with the “empire” label, but he’s trying to convey how we’re perceived abroad. Extremely powerful nations–empires or not–will always run into problems when they lose sight of how they are perceived by outsiders.
I am completely comfounded by the phrase “by invading Iraq we are protecting our freedom”. What?
As for the Atom Bombs, millions of people lived for 50 to 60 more years than if the Bombs had not been dropped. Maybe 200,000 died in the bombing, but the Japanese killed many more than that in the Rape of Nanking which they won’t even admit to doing. As for the Japanese internment camps, I have talked to people who had been there, and they told me of the things the Japanese in America were planning to do, during the war. Remember, a country consists of a border and a Culture, if you violate either, out you go. As far as I am concerned, we have violated the border of Iraq , and we are foolish to think we can, or that we should violate their Culture.
Kaarina, I would love an explanation from you on how coalition governments with multi-party systems makes more sense. Just off the top of my head I can think of two nations….France and Italy….. where governments seem to change with the seasons. As much as I love the wondrous history and culture of Europe I am not seeing any meaningful solutions(unless you consider appeasement and burying their collective heads in the sand solutions)coming from that continent. America is neither the cause of nor the solution to all the worlds problems but at least we are trying.
Bill, firstly I have to say that I can only speak about what I know, and that is the Finnish system. What bothers me here is that there are just too parties to choose from and there seems to be only the extremes in picture yet most people see themselves as moderate. In the Finnish system there are many parties from right to left and you can easily choose depending where you are in the range from right to left. The topics are more relevant to normal people, not things like abortion or the flag that do not have much meaning in the everyday life. The winning parties form a coalition govenment that works together with the issues at hand and come up with solutions. There is no filibuster, there is no countless efforts to pass bills that fail to get enough votes. To me that seems like a lot of time and money wasted. Obviously Finland, a small country of 5,2 million people is not trying to run the world but I spent 4 months there last year and I saw how much more effective it was getting national issues dealt with. Ok, it is a smaller country and it is probably easier to run a smaller country but still comparing the two methods I prefer the Finnish way. I just mentioned that in responce to a comment that the American way is the best. I don’t like comments like that, because as a rule, the writer does not know enough about the other systems to make that judgement.
Kaarina, thank you for clarifying and God bless.
BRAVO!!!!!!!!! I have read the 70 odd reponses to Rick’s heart felt blog entry with great joy and equally great sadness. Being an American the founding fathers would be proud to know is the most difficult responsibility on this planet. That responsiblity includes having an opinion, listening to the opinion of others, and compromising on a solution or decision. I wish the current political campaign for president could be as well thought out and executed as the comments from all of the people whom have posted here. We have had the opportunity to enjoy a very American conversation on the condition in our country and the impact that condition has on others. Our founding fathers would be very proud to know each person who has contributed their comments and opinions to this discussion. Again, BRAVO. Keep writing and thinking. Reading your comments has been and will continue to be a great joy to me. Thank you. Dan P
Interesting blog Rick; it seems you have gotten some people out of their comfort zones. Two books I think people should read are: 1) Overthrow: America’s Century of Regime Change from Hawaii to Iraq by Stephen Kinzer, and 2) Deer Hunting with Jesus: Dispatches from America’s Class War by Joe Bageant.
I used to be a big Rick Steves fan…I wonder why Kaarina does not reurn to Finland.
The way a government is run, and the way the people think, are important parts of a Country’s Culture. Our Congress is made up of people with political opinions that range from far left, to far right. When they vote, they are not supposed to vote the party, they are to vote their actual position, the position that got them elected. Having a number of names for groups of Congressmen and Senators, would not solve anything. In Finland, not every person is from a long time Fin background, but they do not have the same percentage of people who are pushing other cultures, as we do in this country. If you don’t like this culture, as a person from another country, do not try to change it. Any changes that are wanted or needed, can be made by long time citizens. I have visited, and enjoyed Finland, my daughter-in-law was born and raised there. I have nothing against the country of Finland, or against Kaarina, but just adapt, ignore, or leave.
Rick, thanks for an interesting blog entry. I don’t happen to agree with you, but it doesn’t matter because it is not my blog.
but just adapt, ignore, or leave that’s right, shoot the messenger and then you can ignore the message. Kaarina has already said that with the current state of the dollar she cannot afford to leave, a situation I share. “Any changes that are wanted or needed, can be made by long time citizens.” How long time? I’ve lived in the US for over 30 years, although I only recently became a naturalized citizen. Does that disqualify me from having opinions? I’m certainly entitled to vote, and do so. The US was founded and built by immigrants, who I’m sure would be very surprised by this statement.
If I was really embarrassed to live in this country and could not wait to leave, I don’t think that I would let the exchange rate keep from returning to my home country. You know Rick always says that one should not allow the exchange rate to prevent one from traveling the world…But then again maybe the Clintonistas will be back in office soon and all will be well.
Who says I am not traveling? I am going to Europe for 2 months this summer. It is a different matter loosing one third of your assets in the exchange so at the moment I can not move back.
Oh Kathy, learn to read English. I said nothing at all about “shoot the messenger,†and yes we can ignore the message, even from a long time citizen. When Kaarina came here at least she didn’t expect the rest of us learn Finnish, a most fascinating language to listen to. A count from one to ten, would make a comic routine. I don’t mean that to diminish/degrade the language at all, it is beautiful, others sound similar. In Reykjavik, Iceland, in the sauna, a captain and crew (but no stewardess) from Icelandic Airlines were there, and I almost had to laugh when I heard them talking in the Icelandic, or whatever, language. People who have lived in the USA long enough to adapt and assimilate, can make changes that do not disturb others. Don’t try to change our language, or our Constitution, except as permitted in that Constitution. The US was founded and built by immigrants who lived in a melting pot, not a fruit salad as some people want today.
Jim – I grew up in England. Perhaps you meant to say “learn to read American”? Considering I’ve spent over 30 years paying U.S. taxes (income taxes, max. FICA and property taxes), I think I’m as entitled as you are to express my opinion about the political system under which those taxes are assessed. And since I’ve lived long term under another system, my viewpoint might just be a little more informed than that of someone who has only traveled abroad.
So in reality it is just a financial decision? Sounds like corporate America, no real loyalty, just bottom line, right? Maybe these next eight years will be better for you. I sure hope so!
Kathy, I will grant you all of that. Of course you are entitled to express your opinion, and even attempt to make cultural changes. But no one has the right to demand a major change just to confirm their culture. Remember, the founders of our country were not immigrants, they were born here. So was I, and my ancestors did not obey any immigration law of the US, it didn’t exist when they arrived. And don’t tell me we took it from the Indians, until you tell me who they took it from, and why they were always fighting, this tribe and that, instead of founding the United States of Indians. I traveled differently from most. On every trip, in many countries and on many days, there was the Humberd Question of the trip. Of the 600 nights we spent in a Campsite in our RV in 27 European countries, hardly a night went by that I didn’t look for someone to visit with, and discuss their Government and way of life. I would stop and visit with people on the street, everywhere. Never found one person in any country who was not interesting in exchanging information. Too bad I only speak English, and Hand Signals. My Travel Journal contains comments from France, The Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Greece, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Denmark, Czech Republic, Switzerland, and more. Just comments from real people. As I say in one Snippet, I had a hot political discussion in a Swedish Sauna. And I mean that in both meanings of the word HOT.
Not only are we an empire, the people who are running the empire do not pretend they are not running an empire. Ron Suskind learned this from one of GW Bush’s aides (Rove perhaps?) who said: “We’re an empire now, and when we act we create our own reality.” This person sniffed condescendingly at the rest of us who study problems judiciously while those who run the empire do whatever they want wherever they want to do it without a second thought. Let those of you who believe it is legal or moral to invade other countries, overthrow their government, and occupy their country, all the while slaughtering innocent civilians to the point where we do not even make a serious effort to count the bodies. This kind of behaviour has nothing to do with defending freedom and everything to do with extending our empire. If you want this country to be an empire then say so and defend the position. Trying to pretend we are still the Marshall Plan heroes is just delusional, as the rest of the world has figured out.
Rick, I *do* read your blog and visit your website looking not just for travel information but also for your political opinions, and I am glad you share them. And, since it’s your business and your site, I think it’s perfectly reasonable that you use them both as you see fit. Isn’t that exactly the Marine’s point – that in this country it is your right to express your opinion? Thank you for your insights on all topics.
I am amused by people like Peter from Tampa who still seems to subscribe to the belief that the U.S. is the country with the most upward mobility or that we use our foreign bases to prop up unstable democracies. If he did a little reading and learning from material outside of this country, he might see the real pattern behind where our military bases are and aren’t, and how pharmaceuticals really operate. He might also learn the U.S. is no longer No.1 for upward mobility. But often, the truth hurts, and we’d rather bury our head in the sand. Worked for England, didn’t it?
Bob Smith says: We have no interest in taking over countries. We have not made Iraq a territory; rather, we allowed Iraqis the opportunity to set up a government. The U.S. has indeed taken over countries, not in the old manner, by direct occupation, but through direct political pressure to admit no-bid U.S. companies to do infrastructure in the nations we “save.” And Google who sits on the boards of those companies–the politicians who have recently served in government. As for letting other countries set up governments, we allow them to set up puppet governments. If the countries’ people elect leaders we don’t like, we declare them evil-doers and sponsors of terror and try to depose them. If that isn’t empire-building, I don’t know what is. We just manage it by long distance rather than direct occupation. More efficient, no?
Rick: Let me preface my comments by saying that I find your travel related writing very informative. I enjoy watching your shows, and have purchased a set of your DVDs and many travel / rail pass items from your company in the past. That said, I have to agree with prior posters that I did not sign up for your travel Blog to get your political opinions. When I saw you on TV in the past, it brought back memories of prior trips to Europe; which drew me in to watch your show and ultimately buy your DVDs. However, I’m afraid, that from now on, rightly or wrongly, when I see you on TV, or see one of your books in the store, my thoughts will be of your political opinions, with which I do not agree. I guess that’s a long winded way of saying you’ve lost a customer and a ETBD travel evangelist. Happy Travels. P.S. You may want to do a guide book on the people’s utopia that is Venezuela. I’m sure you could find some anti American trinkets in the Government run flea markets there.
The *other* John said: “You may want to do a guide book on the people’s utopia that is Venezuela. I’m sure you could find some anti American trinkets in the Government run flea markets there.” One of the most famous debating gimmicks is to compare the best of something with the worst of something else. I learned in junior high what a gimmick this is. Too bad “John” hasn’t.
Rick, This blog is one of your finest moments; passionately conceived and forcefully written. You continue to enlighten and influence my thinking. Please know your social stances mean a great to me and others. So please stay strong and continue to speak out on the injustices and wrongs of our time. Do not pay attention to the stupid and ignorant that take issue with you. They are most likely blinded by the lies and deceit of our “leaders”.(They also probably believe “zap” there was Adam and “poof” there’s Eve or that Jonah really did spend ninety days in the belly of a whale__which I also find so very insulting intellectually). Take comfort in knowing yours is the sane, responsible approach with truth and logic on your side. Give me more! John
Sarah says: “Rick, I *do* read your blog and visit your website looking not just for travel information but also for your political opinions, and I am glad you share them. And, since it’s your business and your site, I think it’s perfectly reasonable that you use them both as you see fit…” Well said and I totally agree. Thank you and thanks Rick.
Shame on you Mr Steves for using your celebrity status as a travel writer to spout your political opinion. Stick to what you do best–write about travel and not politics. I suggest you do a tour of our military bases throughout the world and talk with our soldiers about their experiences and maybe your opinion will change. You’ll lose a lot of fans over this and rightly so!
Rick, I enjoy your tv program and your guide books, but please keep your political views separate from your travel business. I suggest you start a separate column on your web site where you can post your political views allowing those that want to know your political opinions can go there to read them. I thought you learned this hard lesson 10 years ago with your commentary on the election. I go to your website to plan for travel and as a temporary respite from the chaos of the world—if I want to read political opinions, I’ll go to the editorial page in the newspaper.
And here come some more people who seem to be afraid of people who say things with which they disagree. The world – how messy! This is Rick’s blog. He lets you enter comments advising him to, in effect, get your approval before he blogs. I hope he applauds your exercise of your right to tell Rick what not to say on his own blog and then continues to speak blunt truths.
Once upon a time the most popular travel writer in America was going about his travel business and probably humming to himself “Do you know the way to San Jose?” when he was approached by a US Marine in the San Jose Airport asking the writer about his opinion on a current political and military situation. The travel writer wrote about his travel experience in his travel blog on his travel website and it unleased a fury of responses not seen by this daily travel reader of her favorite website. Will the Marine in San Jose please step forward? Perhaps you can add some more fuel to this fire. I would like for you to expound on your statements and clarify your position?
Dear Rick, While anyone has a right to agree or disagree with you I wonder why some feel the need to attack, so violently and viciously, you and any one who agrees with you . It seems very unamerican… The truth is the truth no matter how loudly or violently some may oppose it. Thank you for having the courage to speak it. I attended your all day travel seminar including the one on travel as a political act. I feel priveleged to have heard the two + hour version of Ambushed in San Jose. The standing ovation you received was for this reason: We are like thirsty travelers in a hot dry country and for a moment you led us to an oasis, gave each of us a shady place to rest, a cool drink of water and hope that there is a way out of this seemingly hopeless and dismal place in which we find ourselves. Please develop a separate sight for those of us who believe in this amazing nation called America and want to see it thrive for everyone who wishes to live here. We want to reclaim our place in the world as an innovative, generous and compassionate nation that respectfully believes in the sovereignty of other nations. In this way those who wish to experience only travel advice need not be disturbed by the world views of others.
Can someone provide me with a link to what is referred to as Rick’s comments on the 2000 election. I searched around page but could not find. Thanks.
Rick you sound a lot like a grump, is there not a ‘NO GRUMPS’ policy in effect on your blog? Do you desire your customers to partake in heated political discourse on tour? It would add an interesting dimension to your tours.
Fascism should rightly be called corporatism as it is a merger of state and corporate power–Benito Mussolini
And yet, more and more people STILL want to move to this country…hmmmm…I wonder why that is?
> I wished I had time to actually talk > with that Marine…about empire. He wouldn’t have understood you, Rick.
> And yet, more and more people STILL > want to move to this > country…hmmmm…I wonder why that > is? Because you’re believing U.S. propaganda, maybe? How many people want to leave this country? How many people do leave? Do you have the numbers? No, you don’t, because the U.S. doesn’t keep them. Most of the people moving here are from the dead-poorest Central and South American nations. You don’t see many Europeans immigrating here anymore.
Jackie said, “You don’t see many Europeans immigrating here anymore.†You are right Jackie. Those European Nations contributed the Cultures that in our melting pot, became the greatest Culture ever known. Then in their time of need, we rebuilt their continent using the Marshall Plan. They saw what a wonderful country we had developed, so copied some important features. You are right, “… people moving here are from the dead-poorest Central and South American nations,†because those countries did not develop from the Western European Culture, and the dictators that rule, want the billions of dollars they save by not feeding their people, and the billions of dollars their former citizens send home to keep their families from starving. Do you still have a question about the greatness of Western European Culture? Do you wonder why no one really wants to move to “… the dead-poorest Central and South American nations?â€
Don’t be silly Jim. Central and South American dictatorships originated from the same “evil” that the United States did: European Colonialism. In that vein, many of these countries are poor and backwards because we think that, because of our own colonialist Monroe Doctrine, we can interfere without consequence in the affairs of these countries. We constantly overthrow democraticaly elected governments (Chile (on 9/11/72 interestigly enough) and Nicaragua) and support their horrible repression (read death squads)of their own people. Then there is the Marshall Plan. WE did no rebuilding whatsoever–the countries of Europe rebuilt themselves, through their own sweat and blood. The European Recovery Program was only a drop in the bucket of what was really financially needed. Sadly, the greatest recipients of aid, Britain and France, used much of the money to finance their colonial conquests in SE Asia. Since the condition for acceping money from the ERP was unfettered access to goods from the US, it is absolutely equal to similar programs from the USSR. Whith that said, the ERP did provide Western Europe with a huge amount of “Moral support”, the idea that the people of the United States stood behind them–argueably something worth more than the money. In end, $12 billion went a long way to forge long lasting friendships and alliances that only a $2 trillion dollar war based on lies and deciet could destabilize.
Yo, Jackie, I don’t know about the rest of the country, but here in Chicago, the second and third largest group of recent immigrants are Poles and Irish…from EUROPE! Last I checked, Poland is doing remarkably well after the fall of the Iron Curtain, and the Irish economy is the fastest growing economy in Europe. And, yet…here they still come. Must be something here that they can’t get there. What could it be? Optimism, perhaps?
From the U.S. census: In March 2003, the civilian noninstitutionalized population in the United States included 33.5 million foreign born, representing 11.7 percent of the U.S. population. Among the foreign born, 53.3 percent were born in Latin America, 25.0 percent in Asia, 13.7 percent in Europe, and the remaining 8.0 percent in other regions of the world. The foreign-born population from Central America (including Mexico) accounted for more than two-thirds of the foreign born from Latin America and more than one-third of the total foreign born. See http://www.census.gov/prod/2004pubs/p20-551.pdf
Even though Dick Cheney tells everyone including our soldiers they are protecting our liberty in reality they take an oath to protect our Constitution. If anyone thinks this war is about anything other than procuring oil they are kidding thenselves. Everyone in Europe knows this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well, if you have Dr. in front of your name, you can rewrite history anyway you wish. Central and South American dictatorships did not originate from Northern Europe, but from the Iberian Peninsula. Can you name me a place in the world that speaks Spanish or Portuguese that are a favorite destination of immigrants? I’ve visited and both, plus Mexico, Central and South America, but no one wants to live there. The Marshall Plan was the bait for European countries, that gave them the start in rebuilding, so they could then help themselves. As for buying the needed equipment from the USA, where else would they buy the things they needed, soon after WW II? I’ve never heard, nor do I believe your comment about Britain and France spending of their Aid money. Jackie said, “You don’t see many Europeans immigrating here anymore.†If you happened to see a half-dozen people walking down the street, which one would you recognize the easiest, the German, the Englishman, the Frenchman, the Dutch, the Mexican or the Swede. Not always, but often the Mexican would be recognized. So there is no easy way to tell exactly how many from here or there, have been lucky enough to get here.
I may be a little naive but did not the war also have something to do with the torture that Saddam and his sons were inflicting on his people. Now looking at the mess, the carnage and power vaacum the Iraqies long for the days of predictable torture instead of terror-kind of like Russia going back 10 years to communism with Putin.
The problem is, that the torture was fine as long as Saddam was useful to the U.S. interests. Can’t you see how you are trying to come up with excuses? I see some very intelligent comments on this board and then I see some not so intelligent trying to justify things that are wrong and just spouting things that they have no facts about but have been brainwashed to believe. It is very sad but I do feel for you brainwashed ones.
“And we will fight and die to defend your freedom to say that.†You know, I did 5 years in the Marines, and this line was never something I could buy in to. Iraq, Vietnam, Korea, even in WWII… none of those nations or powers ever threatened any American’s freedom of speech. Our freedoms are guaranteed by our Bill of Rights and our Constitution, and the only power that can change that, and threaten those freedoms, is our own government. No foreign nation or power on this planet has the ability to invade us and take away our freedoms. We can only do that to ourselves.
One of the things that has made me a long-time fan of Rick Steves as a travel authority for Europe is his unilateral world views. His many years of travel and experiences abroad have given him a world perspective that not many of us have. Insane military-spending, excessive patriotism, the conservative right, well, it quite a task to try to combat that with logic and wisdom. At any rate, it’s his blog, not published informaton or opinions in a book or airing in a TV program. We are all entitled to our opinions.
Hmmmmmm….the last time I looked at a map, Jim, I noticed something quite strange: the Iberian Peninsula is a part of, which continent exactly? Would it be Europe? Spain and Portugal are European cultures, those same cultures that you mentioned in your original post (Western European)as being so “great.” The modus operendi of European colonial powers was to “discover” and conquest “new” territories, then rape the aboriginal population, plunder their natural resources, and then to “civilize” (or enslave) whoever was left after the disease and alcohol, by eliminating their original culture and replacing it with christianity and an European value system. The United States props up poverty in America because it is in our economic interests. Lars Schoultz, the leading academic specialist on human rights in Latin America, found that U.S. aid “has tended to flow disproportionately to Latin American governments which torture their citizens,… to the hemisphere’s relatively egregious violators of fundamental human rights.” That includes military aid and is distributed independent of the needs of the aberent population. More wide-ranging studies by economist Edward Herman found a similar correlation world-wide, also suggesting a plausible reason: aid is correlated with improvement in the investment climate, often achieved by murdering priests and union leaders, massacring peasants trying to organize, blowing up the independent press, proping up Sadam for more than 20 years, economic and military aid to the Taliban, and so on. The result is a secondary correlation between aid and egregious violation of human rights. It is not that U.S. leaders prefer torture (although wou wouldn’t know it by looking); rather, it has little weight in comparison with more important economic values and the interests of US corporations.
Why, Jim, is it so hard to accept that the goodwill of the “American Citizen” could be subverted by their governmant and the greed of soul-less corporate entities? In the case of the Marshall Plan the right thing was done for the wrong reasons. In his quindessential tome “America, Russia, and the Cold War,” Walter LaFeber argues that the US commitment at the close of World War II was to ensure a world in which every state was open to US influence and trade and that American economic imperialism, and not “freedom”, formed the impetus of the Marshall Plan. A study by Tyler Cowen, chairman of the economics dept. at George Mason Univ., found that Britain, Sweden, and Greece, nations that received the most EDP aid, actually grew the least during 1947-1955 and that the economy of Austria grew the most, despite receiving the least amount of aid. In fact the economic recovery of France, Belgium, and Italy were well under way, and we are talking substainable growth, well before the EDP aid began to flow. As the Marshall Plan went into full gear the amount of American dollars being pumped into France, Britain, and the Netherlands was approximately equaled by the funds being siphoned from their treasuries to finance their expeditionary forces in Southeast Asia. Germany’s economic output in 1946 was almost double that of 1934 and according to economic historian Werner Abelshauser “foreign aid was not crucial in starting the recovery or in keeping it going.” Due to exclusive trade provisions, opening Europe to American goods, the generosity of the American taxpayer was overwhelmingly bestowed upon the American corporate sector. The Marshall Plan set the stage for large amounts of private U.S. direct investment in Europe; establishing the basis for the modern Transnational Corporations, which prospered and expanded on overseas orders, fueled initially by the dollars of the Marshall Plan and protected from any “negative developments” by the umbrella of American power.
You know what we now need is a splinter thread for human rights issues because we have now jumped from empires and imperialism to human rights violations.
Kathy, call me crazy, but arent these things all connected? I mean, our “empire” is strong because of the exploitation of the weak. When was the last time you bought a Television mads in the USA? Would you be willing to pay a premium on it, or on your Pocahontas PJs, to give organized workers in third world countries a decent living wage? The economy, or at leat 67% of it is based on US consumers buying this c**p at bargain prices.
Hold on here now because we are not exploiting people because of merchandise – those decisions are based on economics. There is a market advantage to producing products in different parts of the world and that is what globablization is all about. Most of the products out there are not produced even in one country they are produced in 5 depending on the complexity. I don’t see that we exploit anyone as a nation- you may get the greedy like Kathy Lee who used sweat shops but if you look at our standards and the recent problem with lead in toys from china you will see that we were the first ones to yank them from our shelves. We have the highest standards of selling products and pharmaceuticals as well as meat and produce. Right now we are competing heavily with the EU who has become a force to recon with. They have no tarriffs between the EU countries but tariffs and taxes for imports which of course puts us at a disadvantage. The purpose of the EU which began to be formed in 1923 was to stop the spread of communism, bring peace to Europe and shore up the economy of the nation states. One of the purposes of the UN was to disband colonies which has been done and that particular section of the UN worked so well it is no longer in working existence. So I don’t understand why anyone thinks we have an empire or imperalism is in play right now…we are in a world of economic and political globalization and working together. Iraq is a good example of why we need the UN and how stepping out on our own proved why we need the UN and it is not irrelevant. Had we “followed the rules” we may have been in a better position today. But as far as the economy I see that mess being laid at the foot of banks and greedy mortgage brokers and real estate agents selling house to people trying to live beyond the dream. I don’t think the war is crippling our economy I think it was our greed. And look who is bailing us out Asia and the middle east banks.
Rick, thanks for your interesting and thought provoking comments! It’s always nice to see your point-of-view on current world events, as it often helps me to view these from a different perspective. I’m a bit puzzled by the reaction from those who feel you shouldn’t be posting these. I have to wonder whether they’re angry simply because they disagree with your position? All of us have the freedom to air our personal opinions on a Blog, so this is not something that’s unique to you simply because you have a wider audience than the average person. To those who might be offended by your Posts, I’d suggest that they focus on your excellent travel information, and don’t read the Blog. If they DO choose to read the Blog, they should be willing to at least accept a position that’s different than their own (although I know the Iraq situation can be very polarizing). To be more succinct, “if you don’t like it, don’t read it”! I’ll continue reading both your travel information (which has really helped me a lot to travel “smartly”!) as well as your political discussions (which I often find refreshing and interesting). Keep up the good work!
Do any of you people understand business or where we are without oil? When the oil stops, Americans start dying by the hundreds of thousands and then millions in very short order. You need to consider what per cent of your life depends on petroleum. It’s not just gasoline anymore!
In general discussions I have had throughout Europe and the USA, I don’t find the Iberian Peninsula normally included in the mention of Western Europe, unless the subject is geography. Perhaps I should have identified our Culture as Northern European, which would have been just as wrong. Are you one of those who believe that the Western Hemisphere would be a greater place to live if there were still just a few hundred thousand Indians still living in teepees, and riding horses? I had a friend, a full blooded Indian with a PhD, tell me that is what would have happened by now, if the Europeans had not arrived. I would agree that most of the time when someone immigrates to another culture and tries to change it, it is a big mistake. Which is exactly why I asked the UN in 1950, to stop all immigration, and replace it with Invitation.
Wow, I had to read that twice. On this planet and here on the continent, Spain, Portugal, and Andorra are culturally, politicaly, economicaly, and societaly firmly European; and not just fringe players, but deeply rooted in the glorious European traditions that you seem to hold so dear. I can’t thing of one European that would say different (especially since Portugal holds the current EU presidency). So, Spain and Portugal–it don’t get more west than that. The current trend is to divide Europe culturally into West, Central, North, South, and East. Spain and Portugal are interesting because they are considered both Western AND Southern. As a member of the Choktaw Band of Indians and a citizen of Pacific Northwest, I am deeply offended at your rascist stereotype of the aboriginal peoples of North America as teepee dwelling horse riders–no teepees or horses among the coastal tribes or in Mississippi. What I love about your Indian PhD is the intellectual omniscience and temporal ingenuity to travel back in time and accurately predict multigenerational historical outcomes. Maybe he could do soemthing about the genocide of 20 million Indians at the hands of the civilized Europeans. Neverhteless, if European colonizers had adapted, learned the language, and given up their own culture to meld into what was here before them, then we wouldn’t have “the Greatest Nation on Earth”, so by the very definition immigrants that foece their will on thier host nation are a force for civilization, freedom and democracy.
Rick I think this whole thing could have been avoided if you had handled your reaction a little differently. Obviously the young man had gone through some trouble to find out when you would be in his neck of the woods and arranged time off to be there at the airport. So it is obvious this was important to him. Instead of the response you gave in a defensvie manner it might have been better if you put your bag down and looked at him to engage him and acknowledge his thoughts. You don’t have to agree with him but give him the ackowledgment that he was an important person with something to say. After he said what he said you could have told him that you appreciate his reaction to your stance on the matter but after doing research and thinking you were pretty firm in your feelings HOWEVER you are always open to new information. Then you could have told him you were on a tight schedule but here is my email address if you want to write to me. What he wanted was an acknowledgement that you were open to hearing his thoughts and he was valued as a person. I kindof think you blew it here by being so defensive. He was’t attacking you he just wanted to be heard and recognized that his feeling had value. I believe that if you had just acknowledged him as a person and not been scared of a confrontation you would have not even felt you had to write the column to justify your actions that has now inflamed so many people. I think you handled this wrong and if you would have just admitted there was a better way to handle this you would have looked like a bigger person. I am sure Andy has some strong feelings about things would you want someone to do what you did to the young man to Andy or Jacki. It’s all in the people skills we build up and learn from our mistakes
Dead on, Patti, dead on. After all, we are all supposed to be open and receptive to ideas/opinions that are different from our’s, aren’t we. Or at least be willing to listen to those with whom we differ.
Rick instead of of responding to the soldier in such a flippant and arrogant manner perhaps you should have knelt down and thanked him for his courage and for your being able to be such a jerk and prospering by it! You do remember those lean travel days of post 9/11 don’t you? You think Iraq is a waste of $2 trillion how much do you imagine another strike of the dimensions of 9/11 would cost us all? I still believe you are the best at what you do as far as travel but it is getting much more difficult to overlook your boorish behavior. Why is it Liberals can never be gracious in their successes?
Bilco- Ok now see you are doing the same thing that Rick has done, you have attacked Rick by name calling (flippant and arrogant) and he is not going to listen and hear what you are saying and will shut down. Besides telling him to kiss the soldiers feet is there any other way he could have handled this in an alternative way? If so tell him. The young man could have approached Rick a little differently and Rick could have answered differently. Why does everything have to escalate into a either a confrontation or defense mechanism alerts. One of the things I hate about these blogs and emails in general is we feel so insulated to say anything we want not realizing it is going to hurt someones feelings or saying something not meant to hurt someone yet they can’t her our voice or see our face. I will bet if we were all in a room facing each other very few of us would be as vocal and assertive or aggressive as we are here on the board. Engaging someone face to face makes them more human and these boards take that away. But just like a car accident you keep coming back and can’t turn away..what the hell is up with that do you think why do we keep coming back to get that last word in. I don’t want to get all touchy feely about this and be accused of being a liberal but sometimes you have to remember that for every criticism there should be a solution…who was it that said don’t bring me problems unless you have a solution. Why do we have to assign blame or fault to everything and not just admit something was wrong find a way to fix it and go on. If America and Europes biggest brains can’t fix the war in Iraq or the war on terrorism certainly chances are none of us on here can either so why get ugly about it. I know it’s a mess I can’t even begin to fix much less thinking about the Palestine Isreal issues-even Tony Blair is ready to throw his hands up and go screaming into night, and he was a good hope to try to get that on track.
I’m not sure what point I could add to this discussion now after 125+ posts. It would seem that many people here don’t understand the concept of a blog. This is like a journal or diary. Blogs are useful for building community because the writer and those who comment reveal some of their person and personality. I have watched Rick’s PBS shows for years and look forward to traveling with my family using his guides and advice. That being said, I never knew Rick’s political or religious views before reading this blog. Whether or not I agree with him is unimportant. The truth is, getting to know Rick as a person adds so much more to my respect for his opinions on travel. Any a**hole could spout off ideas about travel, but to learn they come from a real person with real thoughts/concerns/opinions… that goes a long way with me. Well done, Mr. Steves.