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The original was posted on /r/aitah by /u/Otherwise_Abroad_675 on 2023-07-17 21:30:05+00:00.
First off, I am not an American nationalist walking around in my red hat, screaming MERICA! I don't think that the US is the greatest country in the world, (GASP!) nor do I have any clue as to which country MIGHT BE the greatest country in the world, or IF that's even something that could really be determined, I realize it's all subjective. I also don't subscribe to the "America First" way of thinking. I believe we are all part of a global community that works best when we strive to reach common goals. I have developed this sort of ethos I THINK, from enjoying the experience of living abroad in both Asia and Europe for several years, (now living in the states).
Based on my own experiences, every country has its strengths and weaknesses, wonderful kind people and yes, assholes...INCLUDING the USA. So I think I have a fairly broad, levelheaded understanding of what the world is like outside the borders of my own country.
All that being said....
While watching/reading various content on social platforms, (Youtube, Twitter, Instagram, and elsewhere) I've noticed that many contributors from Europe and the UK enjoy shitting on Americans and American culture...all while they're eating American food, buying American products, consuming American entertainment, wearing American band T-shirts/fashion and listening to American pop, hip hop and rock music, while they explain to me using American slang, everything they dislike about Americans and their culture, (talk about a lack of self awareness!). Some of it is entirely overt, with much of it being done with a wink and a nod. And please do not go into the whole "ugly American" stereotype, I have been fortunate enough to live in beautiful areas in the states that are popular travel destinations for those coming here on vacation, and trust me, those international tourists stand out every bit as much as I'm sure American tourists do when they travel abroad.
So what's with all the hate? Or maybe my perception is wrong and this is as simple as being a means to an end...more viewers/more clicks? I would love to hear from others, in particular Europeans and those in the UK to hear your thoughts and have a rational discussion about what perhaps might be a miss-perception on my part, or a real dislike that others have towards Americans and American culture.