NationStates Jolt Archive

An American I once met told me that he is married to a Canadian woman. She was very reluctant to move into the States because of all the bad things she heard about America. Then after actually living in the States, she realized that it wasn't so bad in America. But when she tells her canadian friends this, they tell her she's been "brainwashed" despite that they never lived in the States. This guy is often told about how bad America supposedly is by Canadians who never lived there. When he tells them otherwise, he is told that he is "incorrect." Is this type of attitude typical among Canadians? Do they really think they know more about America than Americans do? It seems certain Canadians on this forum do.

Now I realize that many Canadians watch American made TV shows, movies, books and magazines. Many visit the states during vacations. For this reason, by the time a Canadian is 18 years old, he "knows" far more about the U.S. than an American will ever know about Canada. The U.S./Canada border is like a one way mirror, Canada "sees" the U.S., but the U.S. doesn't see Canada. But do they really think viewing American media actually makes them know about as much about america as an American does, even though an American is far more likely to actually live in America than a Canadian is? Does a Canadian actually think that "seeing" the U.S. constantly via American media makes him an expert on America?

I also hear that there seems to be this paranoia on the part of Canadians that the U.S. is going to take over the country. One newsgroup poster said "The Americans have been fond of Canada since 1812, but it's not their's for the taking regardless of how many 'or else's' it's arrogant citizens throw at us." Do Canadians really have this fear? (even though the reality is is that most Americans don't think about Canada most of the time, and if it were not for the weather reports, many would never think about it at all)

I'm also told that Canadians think that Americans are supposedly more patriotic than Canadians, and they say it in a way so that it's supposedly not a good thing to be an American patriot. "I'm not a flag waving American." said a Canuck to an American I know. What? Canadians don't display their flag? You mean I was hallucinating when I saw all those canadian flags being draped in front of houses and public buildings? Canadians never display a flag during parades? What about all those maple leaf pins I see Canadians wearing whenever I'm there? I know a canadian who wears a maple leaf pin despite living in America, and not being to fond of the canadian people. The supposed flag waving American notion on the part of Canadians makes no sense to me. I know there has been lots of "flag waving" since 9-11, but this "flag waving American" notion was embraced by canadians before 9-11. Would someone clear this up for me?

A canadian told me that he thought America was an arrogant country. Apparently it is not uncommon for Canadians to think this way about America. Why do canadians think this way about Americans?

Finally, someone told me that Canadian identity was based on whatever distinguishes them from Americans. Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?

Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?
This bit I can say is true. At least, of a Canadian girl I know. Assuming she is American is the surest way of making a bad first impression.

Canada wants to be Europe with American taxes.

I'm seeing it more and more, we whine about how our taxes are too high, then whine about how our social programs are crumbling.

If we don't want to 'become America', if we want all the things that makes Europe so great then we better get ready to make the same sacrifices.

FINALLY! Someone with sense!

Listen Canada! We never talk about you. We never think about you. The only time we thought of you was back in 1st grade when we were learning what countries were in North America.

What B.S., us wanting Canada...

Alt spacebastards....I'll remember that name...

FINALLY! Someone with sense!

Listen Canada! We never talk about you. We never think about you. The only time we thought of you was back in 1st grade when we were learning what countries were in North America.

What B.S., us wanting Canada...

Alt spacebastards....I'll remember that name...
alt.spacebastards (http://groups.google.com/groups?hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&group=alt.spacebastards)

Aww, give Canada a break. They talk big, but they don't mean it. 90% of their population lives within a few miles of the U.S. border.. it's not like they really have their own country or anything, geez. I like Canadians though, they're no different than us, really. :wink:

Canada wants to be Europe with American taxes.

I'm seeing it more and more, we whine about how our taxes are too high, then whine about how our social programs are crumbling.

If we don't want to 'become America', if we want all the things that makes Europe so great then we better get ready to make the same sacrifices.
I realize Canada is not European, but they might as well be for all the terrible economy, high unemployment and pathetic health care they provide their citizens. France, Britain and especially Ireland fare no better, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands are so backward they remind me of Southern Mississippi, USA.

Canadians are liked because they're considered inoffensive and non-threatening. Like the little old man who lives next door, they're good for bringing in the mail and newspaper when you're on vacation. But God help you if you needed him to help defend your home. Most of the time, you simply ignore him.

The US on the other hand is either loved or hated. Loved when we save another nation's collective ass. Hated when we stop throwing billions in foreign aid at them. Casually dismissed? Only at extreme peril.

I realize Canada is not European, but they might as well be for all the terrible economy, high unemployment and pathetic health care they provide their citizens. France, Britain and especially Ireland fare no better, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands are so backward they remind me of Southern Mississippi, USA.

As of 2002, Canada is #13 out of 237 nations listed in the CIA World Factbook 2003 for highest GDP ( http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/rankorder/2001rank.html ).

Canada ranks #9 out of 231 nations listed for GDP per capita. ( http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/rankorder/2004rank.html ).

Many of the Western European nations fall somewhere within the top 25 on the same lists.

Canadians are liked because they're considered inoffensive and non-threatening. Like the little old man who lives next door, they're good for bringing in the mail and newspaper when you're on vacation. But God help you if you needed him to help defend your home. Most of the time, you simply ignore him.

The US on the other hand is either loved or hated. Loved when we save another nation's collective ass. Hated when we stop throwing billions in foreign aid at them. Casually dismissed? Only at extreme peril.

Last time I saw an offensive Canadian was when he was with a Brit

But God help you if you needed him to help defend your home.


Actually, if this article about Canadian forces at the Normandy Invasion during WWII is accurate, that little old man is probably a lot stronger than people give him credit for.

"By the end of D-Day the 3rd Canadian Division had penetrated farther into France than any other Allied force, having faced resistance stronger than at any beachhead save Omaha."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juno_Beach

Canadians are liked because they're considered inoffensive and non-threatening. Like the little old man who lives next door, they're good for bringing in the mail and newspaper when you're on vacation. But God help you if you needed him to help defend your home. Most of the time, you simply ignore him.

The US on the other hand is either loved or hated. Loved when we save another nation's collective ass. Hated when we stop throwing billions in foreign aid at them. Casually dismissed? Only at extreme peril.

Looks like the Canadians aren't looked upon greatly by some Americans either.

A canadian told me that he thought America was an arrogant country. Apparently it is not uncommon for Canadians to think this way about America. Why do canadians think this way about Americans?

Finally, someone told me that Canadian identity was based on whatever distinguishes them from Americans. Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?

well first of all, i think I can safely say, that alot of non-Americans believe America is a very arrogant country. This really isn't just limited to Canada.

Yes, we do not want to be associated or called Americans when we travel around the world. Alot of Canadians do not like American policy in a variety of issues. And hey, when you travel overseas, would like to be called British or Canadian if you weren't from those countries, I think not.

It's funny that you try to dismiss Canadians by saying "we never think about you." The truth of the matter is you don't really think about anyone but yourselves. The only country you are concerned with seems to be the good ol' USA. Sure, we Canadians have a lot of opinions about the US wich may or may not be true, but it doesn't end there with you. Our media educates us about world issues, so we have opinions about all nations around the world. Sure, we ARE facinated by American politics. Mostly because it's such a freak show.

Truth be told, a lot of Canadians are terrified of the US. We miss the Clinton era where Canada and the US were brothers in the good fight to make the world a better place for mankind. Now Bush is leading the fight to make the world a better place for Americans and he gets all upset when we decline to join that fight.

Regardless, it will be interesting to see how the meetings between Paul Martin and George W Bush go in the coming weeks.

It's funny that you try to dismiss Canadians by saying "we never think about you." The truth of the matter is you don't really think about anyone but yourselves. The only country you are concerned with seems to be the good ol' USA. Sure, we Canadians have a lot of opinions about the US wich may or may not be true, but it doesn't end there with you. Our media educates us about world issues, so we have opinions about all nations around the world. Sure, we ARE facinated by American politics. Mostly because it's such a freak show.

Truth be told, a lot of Canadians are terrified of the US. We miss the Clinton era where Canada and the US were brothers in the good fight to make the world a better place for mankind. Now Bush is leading the fight to make the world a better place for Americans and he gets all upset when we decline to join that fight.

Regardless, it will be interesting to see how the meetings between Paul Martin and George W Bush go in the coming weeks.

Okay. You replace CNN, FOX, MSNBC, and our other ALL-ABOUT-AMERICA-MEDIA and THEN we'll talk!

We have no need to think about other nations unless there's a reason to think about them. The media is the cause of the problem.

Blame them, not us.

A PROUD CANADIAN HERE!

This is where I get most of my information about Canada. (http://www.imao.us/archives/001272.html)

And this is where I learned about their history. (http://imao.us/docs/BriefHistoryOfCanada.htm)

This is where I get most of my information about Canada. (http://www.imao.us/archives/001272.html)

And this is where I learned about their history. (http://imao.us/docs/BriefHistoryOfCanada.htm)

Was originally called Cana, but, since everyone there said, "I live in Cana, duuuuh," the name Canada eventually stuck.

Canadians pretend to be peaceful, but more Canadians are murdered in Canada every year than any other country.

* Canada is still technically owned by England and has to dance for them when commanded.

* That happens usually three times a year.


Canada has a picture of a queen on their money to show their contempt for democracy.


A large minority of Canadians speak French, and they boss around the rest of the Canadians. Bossed around by French-speaking people - that's so pathetic I can't even imagine it.

* Canadians think they are superior to Americans. The rational basis for this is unknown

If a Canadian ever tries to express an opinion about America, hit him on the head with a rolled up newspaper while shouting, "No!" You have to catch them in the act or they'll never learn.

* Canada doesn't have all the beliefs in liberty and freedom of speech that we have. So, if you have to go to Canada, make sure to bring a gun to help them recognize.

* Canada is so defective that it loses gravity for six hours every month.


* Canadians have universal healthcare. The way they afford it is making people wait so long that most die before seeing a doctor.

* Actually, most Canadians who read this list would just say, "Eh?"


LMAO....hope I didn't put too much :?

We have no need to think about other nations unless there's a reason to think about them. The media is the cause of the problem.


I totally agree with the last part. But as a citizen of the world aren't you the least bit concerned with the rest of it even if it has nothing to do with you directly?

This is where I get most of my information about Canada. (http://www.imao.us/archives/001272.html)

And this is where I learned about their history. (http://imao.us/docs/BriefHistoryOfCanada.htm)

It was funny until I realized he is just another French hater. And he called Canadians "panzies". :?

We have no need to think about other nations unless there's a reason to think about them. The media is the cause of the problem.


I totally agree with the last part. But as a citizen of the world aren't you the least bit concerned with the rest of it even if it has nothing to do with you directly?

I am, I love hearing about world news. Unfortunatly, I cannot speak for 250 million+ Americans.

part of the reason americans dont show much interest in whats going on in the world...... i think........ is the US ... though it doesnt seem like it now..... is fundamentally an isolationist state. read thomas jefferson or hamliton in the federalist papers. they both called for no entangling alliances..... no involvement in european wars or politics they only wanted trade relations. up until 9/11..... there has never been any popular support for military deployment ...... exp: serbia kosovo and the persian gulf war (bush sr did not gain popular support for going in until AFTER we were already in). WW II..... the only reason we became involved in the fighting has Pearl harbor...... hitler declared war on the us (though he technically didnt have to ... because Japan was the aggressor). After WW I wilson wanted to create a "league of nations" but the isolationist US congress would have nothing of it....... the list goes on and on...... Americans want to be left alone ....... but will fight to the death when provoked. and as for canada..... great trading partner..... but why the hell would we want that ice box? :P

I realize Canada is not European, but they might as well be for all the terrible economy, high unemployment and pathetic health care they provide their citizens. France, Britain and especially Ireland fare no better, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands are so backward they remind me of Southern Mississippi, USA.

I'll concede your point about Portugal and Spain (and Greece for that matter). But you dare denigrate Northern European standards of living in comparison with the USA? Excuse me while I laugh my ass off.

Especially about the Netherlands. Have you ever been there? It's living proof that capitalism and socialism can work hand in hand.

This whole thread..

Bwhahahahaha!

Ok, now that is out of my system, there are a lot of people talking here who apparently know nothing about Canada..

It's funny though.. :lol:

This whole thread..

Bwhahahahaha!

Ok, now that is out of my system, there are a lot of people talking here who apparently no nothing about Canada..

It's funny though.. :lol:

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

No, you seem to be using that as an excuse to bash any country that isn;t your own.

Like I've said on other threads- provincialism. It's America's curse.

This whole thread..

Bwhahahahaha!

Ok, now that is out of my system, there are a lot of people talking here who apparently no nothing about Canada..

It's funny though.. :lol:

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

No, you seem to be using that as an excuse to bash any country that isn;t your own.

Like I've said on other threads- provincialism. It's America's curse.

Anglo-Scandinavia CLAIMS to know what Colodia says. But who is he to say that he knows more about Colodia than the Colodians do?

Seriously though. You have a right to bash America's society all you want if you stay here for one full year. Maybe then you'll understand our complex and multi-cultural society.

This whole thread..

Bwhahahahaha!

Ok, now that is out of my system, there are a lot of people talking here who apparently no nothing about Canada..

It's funny though.. :lol:

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

So...how do these Canadians learn about the U.S. eh?

EDIT: Oh crap....dammit I sound like a Canadian now :P

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

No, you seem to be using that as an excuse to bash any country that isn;t your own.

Like I've said on other threads- provincialism. It's America's curse.

Anglo-Scandinavia CLAIMS to know what Colodia says. But who is he to say that he knows more about Colodia than the Colodians do?

Seriously though. You have a right to bash America's society all you want if you stay here for one full year. Maybe then you'll understand our complex and multi-cultural society.

Fair enough I was in the US a lot longer then a year.. (I'm Canadian btw) I stand by my post above..

Oh, one other thing.. why are you talking about yourself in the third person? LOL :lol:

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

No, you seem to be using that as an excuse to bash any country that isn;t your own.

Like I've said on other threads- provincialism. It's America's curse.

Anglo-Scandinavia CLAIMS to know what Colodia says. But who is he to say that he knows more about Colodia than the Colodians do?

Seriously though. You have a right to bash America's society all you want if you stay here for one full year. Maybe then you'll understand our complex and multi-cultural society.

Fair enough I was in the US a lot longer then a year.. (I'm Canadian btw) I stand by my post above..

Oh, one other thing.. why are you talking about yourself in the third person? LOL :lol:

Steph, your knowledge of America cannot speak for Canada's whole knowledge of America

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

No, you seem to be using that as an excuse to bash any country that isn;t your own.

Like I've said on other threads- provincialism. It's America's curse.

Anglo-Scandinavia CLAIMS to know what Colodia says. But who is he to say that he knows more about Colodia than the Colodians do?

Seriously though. You have a right to bash America's society all you want if you stay here for one full year. Maybe then you'll understand our complex and multi-cultural society.

Fair enough I was in the US a lot longer then a year.. (I'm Canadian btw) I stand by my post above..

Oh, one other thing.. why are you talking about yourself in the third person? LOL :lol:

Steph, your knowledge of America cannot speak for Canada's whole knowledge of America

I know people don't hate me because of the government that runs my beautiful country.. You?

We have no need to think about other nations unless there's a reason to think about them. The media is the cause of the problem.


I totally agree with the last part. But as a citizen of the world aren't you the least bit concerned with the rest of it even if it has nothing to do with you directly?

Excuse me...my passport says I'm a citizen of the United States, I don't recall giving up my sovereignity for some imagine citizenship in some World Nation?..I have more then enough issues to deal with just within the 50 States of this Union. They take up far more of my time then learning of another French Truckers strike or how England is pissed that mainland Europe doesn't want it's beef or that the Italian and Spanish governments have once AGAIN changed hands....etc..etc

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

No, you seem to be using that as an excuse to bash any country that isn;t your own.

Like I've said on other threads- provincialism. It's America's curse.

Anglo-Scandinavia CLAIMS to know what Colodia says. But who is he to say that he knows more about Colodia than the Colodians do?

Seriously though. You have a right to bash America's society all you want if you stay here for one full year. Maybe then you'll understand our complex and multi-cultural society.

Fair enough I was in the US a lot longer then a year.. (I'm Canadian btw) I stand by my post above..

Oh, one other thing.. why are you talking about yourself in the third person? LOL :lol:

Steph, your knowledge of America cannot speak for Canada's whole knowledge of America

I know people don't hate me because of the government that runs my beautiful country.. You?

Government doesn't speak for a society. Which is something a lot of people need to learn

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

Indeed.

Colodia. Do you know how ironic your statements sound? Have you spent one full year in any of the European countries you see as inferior?
I may not have spent one full year in the US but I spent the whole of the summer of 2003 in California and I didn't much like what I saw.

You people see yourselves as the centre of the world, drinking your watery beer and eating your bland hotdogs- the thing which irritates the rest of us is that you pontificate about how your own system is the best but know little or nothing about other systems. As Stephistan said, the average W. European or Canadian probably knows much more about the US than the average American knows about them.

An example would be Alt-spacebastards and his ludicrous criticism of European countries which he seems to have picked at random. Just look at that selection. He has demonstrated that he knows nothing about countries outside his own. He demonstrates ignorance of simple fact e.g. that Ireland is currently in better shape than Britain and by even daring to whisper the name of the Netherlands in connection with Southern Mississippi.

We have no need to think about other nations unless there's a reason to think about them. The media is the cause of the problem.


I totally agree with the last part. But as a citizen of the world aren't you the least bit concerned with the rest of it even if it has nothing to do with you directly?

Excuse me...my passport says I'm a citizen of the United States

I feel bad for ya bud, I like you too.. Ah, I won't let your citzenship get in the way of a half decent net friendship.. I still like you no matter what your passport says ;)

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

Indeed.

Colodia. Do you know how ironic your statements sound? Have you spent one full year in any of the European countries you see as inferior?
I may not have spent one full year in the US but I spent the whole of the summer of 2003 in California and I didn't much like what I saw.

You people see yourselves as the centre of the world, drinking your watery beer and eating your bland hotdogs- the thing which irritates the rest of us is that you pontificate about how your own system is the best but know little or nothing about other systems. As Stephistan said, the average W. European or Canadian probably knows much more about the US than the average American knows about them.

An example would be Alt-spacebastards and his ludicrous criticism of European countries which he seems to have picked at random. Just look at that selection. He has demonstrated that he knows nothing about countries outside his own. He demonstrates ignorance of simple fact e.g. that Ireland is currently in better shape than Britain and by even daring to whisper the name of the Netherlands in connection with Southern Mississippi.

HEY..HEY..HEY...bland hotdogs?...I gather you've never had a true Coney Island footlong?

people only hate what they fear...... rationally or irrationally...... im afraid of bears....hate them with a passion....because they have the ABLITY to harm me... does that mean the bear is evil/ has malicious intent? the US is feared because it is extremely successful... it is the only superpower in the world and has the ABILITY to do serious damage if it so pleased... but really..... like the sumbering bear...... it only lashes out when it or its interests are attacked...... canada on the other hand is still a cub in comparison. it isnt feared so it isnt hated.

HEY..HEY..HEY...bland hotdogs?...I gather you've never had a true Coney Island footlong?

I haven't. And I'm sure that they're excellent. Just like some microbrews I had in San Fransisco were pretty good beers. However, individual spots of excellence aren't what I'm looking at. Lets look at more generalised stuff- the stuff that people all over the country would consume.

However if you take a Budweiser and compare it to say, an Amstel you'll taste the difference. :)

Ok, as fun and as mindless as this thread is.. I have a friend waiting for me in IRC.. Have fun and don't forget..

Blame Canada

It's not like the American government will ever take any responsibility for their actions.. go on, blame us, you'll feel better ;)

HEY..HEY..HEY...bland hotdogs?...I gather you've never had a true Coney Island footlong?

I haven't. And I'm sure that they're excellent. Just like some microbrews I had in San Fransisco were pretty good beers. However, individual spots of excellence aren't what I'm looking at. Lets look at more generalised stuff- the stuff that people all over the country would consume.

However if you take a Budweiser and compare it to say, an Amstel you'll taste the difference. :)

Well...I haven't touched a drop of anything in about 12 yrs..but my choice of poison was Kentucky sipping bourbon..I've yet to taste any other Canadian or Irish equivalent that can beat it.

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

Indeed.

Colodia. Do you know how ironic your statements sound? Have you spent one full year in any of the European countries you see as inferior?
I may not have spent one full year in the US but I spent the whole of the summer of 2003 in California and I didn't much like what I saw.

You people see yourselves as the centre of the world, drinking your watery beer and eating your bland hotdogs- the thing which irritates the rest of us is that you pontificate about how your own system is the best but know little or nothing about other systems. As Stephistan said, the average W. European or Canadian probably knows much more about the US than the average American knows about them.

An example would be Alt-spacebastards and his ludicrous criticism of European countries which he seems to have picked at random. Just look at that selection. He has demonstrated that he knows nothing about countries outside his own. He demonstrates ignorance of simple fact e.g. that Ireland is currently in better shape than Britain and by even daring to whisper the name of the Netherlands in connection with Southern Mississippi.

You must've stayed in L.A. or some similar city. California is the most beautiful state we got!


And no, I haven't spent a year in any of the Europeon countries I've....oh wait...i HAVENT said anything about any other countries have I?


And hey, if you guys hate the way we act, don't you guys think you should be the better people and be more mature about it? Maybe we could learn something if we had someone to learn from? AM I RIGHT? AM I RIGHT?


America is a nation filled with people with different levels of thinking. On the street, you'll find one person reading the newspaper at Starbucks. On the other side of the street, you'll find some fatty eating a BigMac at McDonalds while on the cell phone complaining to his lawyer about why can't he sue Burger King for making him gain 2 lb.


Now...which do you think knows more about America? The fat dude eating McDonalds? Or the guy reading the newspaper.

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

Indeed.

Colodia. Do you know how ironic your statements sound? Have you spent one full year in any of the European countries you see as inferior?
I may not have spent one full year in the US but I spent the whole of the summer of 2003 in California and I didn't much like what I saw.

You people see yourselves as the centre of the world, drinking your watery beer and eating your bland hotdogs- the thing which irritates the rest of us is that you pontificate about how your own system is the best but know little or nothing about other systems. As Stephistan said, the average W. European or Canadian probably knows much more about the US than the average American knows about them.

An example would be Alt-spacebastards and his ludicrous criticism of European countries which he seems to have picked at random. Just look at that selection. He has demonstrated that he knows nothing about countries outside his own. He demonstrates ignorance of simple fact e.g. that Ireland is currently in better shape than Britain and by even daring to whisper the name of the Netherlands in connection with Southern Mississippi.

You must've stayed in L.A. or some similar city. California is the most beautiful state we got!


And no, I haven't spent a year in any of the Europeon countries I've....oh wait...i HAVENT said anything about any other countries have I?


And hey, if you guys hate the way we act, don't you guys think you should be the better people and be more mature about it? Maybe we could learn something if we had someone to learn from? AM I RIGHT? AM I RIGHT?


America is a nation filled with people with different levels of thinking. On the street, you'll find one person reading the newspaper at Starbucks. On the other side of the street, you'll find some fatty eating a BigMac at McDonalds while on the cell phone complaining to his lawyer about why can't he sue Burger King for making him gain 2 lb.


Now...which do you think knows more about America? The fat dude eating McDonalds? Or the guy reading the newspaper.

i dunno bout N Cali..... but most of S Cal is crap (besides a few select places) ......... used to live there..... gangs... smog...... more gangs...... more smog...... my family moved outta there as quick as we could!

"And no, I haven't spent a year in any of the Europeon countries I've....oh wait...i HAVENT said anything about any other countries have I?"

I withdraw that statement from you then. My apologies It will teach me to read carefully before ranting :) Consider it to only apply to people like Alt_Spacebastards then.

"And hey, if you guys hate the way we act, don't you guys think you should be the better people and be more mature about it? Maybe we could learn something if we had someone to learn from? AM I RIGHT? AM I RIGHT?"
The trouble is it seems like a lot of American's aren't interested in learning, only in clinging to their underinformed opinions.

"America is a nation filled with people with different levels of thinking. On the street, you'll find one person reading the newspaper at Starbucks. On the other side of the street, you'll find some fatty eating a BigMac at McDonalds while on the cell phone complaining to his lawyer about why can't he sue Burger King for making him gain 2 lb."

Agreed but like everything else about this debate, I was arguing in generalisations. Just like you can find fantastic microbrews in various places in the States but most people drink budweiser, you can find informed and intelligent Americans but unfortunately the most vocal ones often seem to be those who have no argument besides "America is the best!! All other countries are shitholes!!" as certain participants on this thread have demonstrated.

I'm sorry if I jumped the gun and overgeneralised and I apologise to you Colodia but the gist of my comments still stand.

Oh, and I stayed in Berkely. The Bay area is fantastic but I just wasn't comfortable with the general perceptions of people and what I saw in the media.

<rant>Having said that, I have a particular grudge against the US Customs service. I'm racially Indian and I've got a beard so every time I come into the US I get grilled by the customs inspector.
"What is your purpose of visit?"
"Why are you living in the UK if you're a Singaporean citizen?"
"Why are your parents living in the US?"
"You're Idnian so why is your surname Mathew?"

All kinds of irritating stuff like that.</rant>
I know they're just doing their jobs but it was just a rant so ignore it :)

Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?
This bit I can say is true. At least, of a Canadian girl I know. Assuming she is American is the surest way of making a bad first impression.

Excepting of course the fact that Canada was a French colony.

"And no, I haven't spent a year in any of the Europeon countries I've....oh wait...i HAVENT said anything about any other countries have I?"

I withdraw that statement from you then. My apologies It will teach me to read carefully before ranting :) Consider it to only apply to people like Alt_Spacebastards then.

"And hey, if you guys hate the way we act, don't you guys think you should be the better people and be more mature about it? Maybe we could learn something if we had someone to learn from? AM I RIGHT? AM I RIGHT?"
The trouble is it seems like a lot of American's aren't interested in learning, only in clinging to their underinformed opinions.

"America is a nation filled with people with different levels of thinking. On the street, you'll find one person reading the newspaper at Starbucks. On the other side of the street, you'll find some fatty eating a BigMac at McDonalds while on the cell phone complaining to his lawyer about why can't he sue Burger King for making him gain 2 lb."

Agreed but like everything else about this debate, I was arguing in generalisations. Just like you can find fantastic microbrews in various places in the States but most people drink budweiser, you can find informed and intelligent Americans but unfortunately the most vocal ones often seem to be those who have no argument besides "America is the best!! All other countries are shitholes!!" as certain participants on this thread have demonstrated.

I'm sorry if I jumped the gun and overgeneralised and I apologise to you Colodia but the gist of my comments still stand.

Oh, and I stayed in Berkely. The Bay area is fantastic but I just wasn't comfortable with the general perceptions of people and what I saw in the media.

<rant>Having said that, I have a particular grudge against the US Customs service. I'm racially Indian and I've got a beard so every time I come into the US I get grilled by the customs inspector.
"What is your purpose of visit?"
"Why are you living in the UK if you're a Singaporean citizen?"
"Why are your parents living in the US?"
"You're Idnian so why is your surname Mathew?"

All kinds of irritating stuff like that.</rant>
I know they're just doing their jobs but it was just a rant so ignore it :)

my grandfather...... when he comes to visit now..... has to go through alot of the same crap...... and hes an OLLLLLDDDDD white man..... so im sure its nothing against you

my grandfather...... when he comes to visit now..... has to go through alot of the same crap...... and hes an OLLLLLDDDDD white man..... so im sure its nothing against you

I'm sure but like I said- it was just an illogical rant :)

"And no, I haven't spent a year in any of the Europeon countries I've....oh wait...i HAVENT said anything about any other countries have I?"

I withdraw that statement from you then. My apologies It will teach me to read carefully before ranting :) Consider it to only apply to people like Alt_Spacebastards then.

"And hey, if you guys hate the way we act, don't you guys think you should be the better people and be more mature about it? Maybe we could learn something if we had someone to learn from? AM I RIGHT? AM I RIGHT?"
The trouble is it seems like a lot of American's aren't interested in learning, only in clinging to their underinformed opinions.

"America is a nation filled with people with different levels of thinking. On the street, you'll find one person reading the newspaper at Starbucks. On the other side of the street, you'll find some fatty eating a BigMac at McDonalds while on the cell phone complaining to his lawyer about why can't he sue Burger King for making him gain 2 lb."

Agreed but like everything else about this debate, I was arguing in generalisations. Just like you can find fantastic microbrews in various places in the States but most people drink budweiser, you can find informed and intelligent Americans but unfortunately the most vocal ones often seem to be those who have no argument besides "America is the best!! All other countries are shitholes!!" as certain participants on this thread have demonstrated.

I'm sorry if I jumped the gun and overgeneralised and I apologise to you Colodia but the gist of my comments still stand.

Apology accepted, I suffer from late-night posting problems too :P

Oh, and stay away from the beer...for I do not care about alcholol and it doesn't help either of us when one mentions how good each other's beer is

I cannot really give an arguement defending such vocal and uneducated fools. Pretty much because I don't have any motivation to since they give our grand nation a bad name.

It's 1:17 am, and I got a State-level project I really should do...I'll be back later

Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?
This bit I can say is true. At least, of a Canadian girl I know. Assuming she is American is the surest way of making a bad first impression.

Excepting of course the fact that Canada was a French colony.

to begin w/ but then the brits took over...... Louisiana territoy was french and florida california ..... texas......... almost all of the west was spanish. in both countrys the brits had the most influece of all the colonizers..... ESPECIALLY canada

:shock: I'm racially Indian too! Well....half at least

My cousin who was working at Disney World in Orlando for vacation got so fed up with the racism after 9/11 that he got permission from his boss to make threats to anyone that offended him racially

Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?
This bit I can say is true. At least, of a Canadian girl I know. Assuming she is American is the surest way of making a bad first impression.

Excepting of course the fact that Canada was a French colony.

to begin w/ but then the brits took over...... Louisiana territoy was french and florida california ..... texas......... almost all of the west was spanish. in both countrys the brits had the most influece of all the colonizers..... ESPECIALLY canada

And that my friends, is why most of Canada speaks English instead of French.

The annexation of Florida is one of the funnier stories in American history. That Andrew Jackson sure knew how to have fun.

Tell us Earth!

I'm gonna get SO busted for this, seeing as how I'm supposed to know about America!

:shock: I'm racially Indian too! Well....half at least

My cousin who was working at Disney World in Orlando for vacation got so fed up with the racism after 9/11 that he got permission from his boss to make threats to anyone that offended him racially

I find that very hard to believe. Disney is one of the most image conscious organizations in the world and that they would allow one of their employees to threaten one of their clients for any reason is beyond belief. Unless of course the threats ran along the lines of "shut up or get kicked out of the park."

:shock: I'm racially Indian too! Well....half at least

My cousin who was working at Disney World in Orlando for vacation got so fed up with the racism after 9/11 that he got permission from his boss to make threats to anyone that offended him racially

I find that very hard to believe. Disney is one of the most image conscious organizations in the world and that they would allow one of their employees to threaten one of their clients for any reason is beyond belief. Unless of course the threats ran along the lines of "shut up or get kicked out of the park."

He may have well been lying. But I found it funnier believing him

Canadians are too embarrassed to be confused with Americans, they don't want to be associated with them even though they both originated as English colonies. Is this true?
This bit I can say is true. At least, of a Canadian girl I know. Assuming she is American is the surest way of making a bad first impression.

Excepting of course the fact that Canada was a French colony.

Let me guess.. you're one of those Americans who know nothing about Canada right? LOL :lol:

:shock: I'm racially Indian too! Well....half at least

You don't mean Amerindian right? Sorry- just to check. I've made that mistake in America before
Me: "I'm Indian"
Them: "You don't look Indian. What tribe?" :)

As for the alcohol, I enjoy it in moderation. Besides, being a University student here in the UK one has a certain level to maintain :wink:

:shock: I'm racially Indian too! Well....half at least

You don't mean Amerindian right? Sorry- just to check. I've made that mistake in America before
Me: "I'm Indian"
Them: "You don't look Indian. What tribe?" :)

As for the alcohol, I enjoy it in moderation. Besides, being a University student here in the UK one has a certain level to maintain :wink:

Ugh....when we were learning about Native Americans back in 3rd grade, I had trouble with all the kids asking me that.... :lol:

This truly is a silly thread.. you have a bunch of people who apparently don't know much about Canada making it up as they go..

I will admit, it's amusing to watch, kind of like a car wreck..lol ;)

:shock: I'm racially Indian too! Well....half at least

You don't mean Amerindian right? Sorry- just to check. I've made that mistake in America before
Me: "I'm Indian"
Them: "You don't look Indian. What tribe?" :)

As for the alcohol, I enjoy it in moderation. Besides, being a University student here in the UK one has a certain level to maintain :wink:

and here i thought britain was a country of alcohalics? guess its depends on what you consider moderation? i think americans drink a WHOLE lot less then the average brit....... but then..... most americans i know cant handle it very well...... myself included... 3 smirnoff ices..... and im GONE for the night

and here i thought britain was a country of alcohalics? guess its depends on what you consider moderation? i think americans drink a WHOLE lot less then the average brit....... but then..... most americans i know cant handle it very well...... myself included... 3 smirnoff ices..... and im GONE for the night

Well Britain and Europe have drinking as part of their cultures. On an average night at the pub I'd probably have 3 or 4 pints of ale or lager. If I were going clubbing it would be more but that doesn't happen too often.

But like I said, here it's part of the culture. If I had a project to do with some of the people on my course we'd probably go down to one of the student pubs in the University's student union to discuss it.

Tell us Earth!

I'm gonna get SO busted for this, seeing as how I'm supposed to know about America!

The short story or the long story?

Steph: I know a fair amount about Canada, but I will admit that most of what I know of Canadian history I learned in my U.S. history classes. As has already been discussed Canada was not only a French colony, but it was originally one and I believe you'll have a hard time disputing that.

think she ment the FL story earth

whichever way makes sense and is funnier

I realize Canada is not European, but they might as well be for all the terrible economy, high unemployment and pathetic health care they provide their citizens. France, Britain and especially Ireland fare no better, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands are so backward they remind me of Southern Mississippi, USA.
hey ass face, don't talk shit about Mississippi.

whichever way makes sense and is funnier

Well, basically the U.S. wanted Florida but the president at the time didn't want to fight for it. Spain demanded more for it that we were willing to pay so Jackson was sent to the border in an attempt to intimidate the Spanish into lowering the price. It didn't work so Jackson sent a letter to the president suggesting that he invade. The president wrote back telling him not to. Jackson replied that he was going to invade anyway and did so taking Florida with almost no resistance. He was censured and the issue was forgotten until Jackson decided he'd run for president when it was one of the strongest points against him. But nevertheless he was elected in a landslide victory and went on to be one of the most eccentric and personally powerful presidents this country has ever had.

whichever way makes sense and is funnier

Well, basically the U.S. wanted Florida but the president at the time didn't want to fight for it. Spain demanded more for it that we were willing to pay so Jackson was sent to the border in an attempt to intimidate the Spanish into lowering the price. It didn't work so Jackson sent a letter to the president suggesting that he invade. The president wrote back telling him not to. Jackson replied that he was going to invade anyway and did so taking Florida with almost no resistance. He was censured and the issue was forgotten until Jackson decided he'd run for president when it was one of the strongest points against him. But nevertheless he was elected in a landslide victory and went on to be one of the most eccentric and personally powerful presidents this country has ever had.

*holds up the applause sign*

think she ment the FL story earth

Actually the French helped the Americans far more then Canada. I'm actually 1/2 French Canadian.. I might know a little on the subject. Canada was basically the same as the USA.. a British colony in every sense of the word.. where as the US wanted to break away because of religion.. (if you all read your history books you should know this) The French all but made the difference for the USA, without France, America would of never of won.. (well, we can't say never, we don't know.. but the French were the deciding factor) As for Canada.. the French were treated rather poorly.. Canada basically remained a British colony until 1982 when we signed away from them, while some may argue the Queen still appoints a representative to Canada.. it's just a figure head and they have no power.. If the Govern General actually tried to dissolve Parliament, I suspect the Supreme Court of Canada would strike it down rather quickly..

[History lesson end/] :P

think she ment the FL story earth

Actually the French helped the Americans far more then Canada. I'm actually 1/2 French Canadian.. I might know a little on the subject. Canada was basically the same as the USA.. a British colony in every sense of the word.. where as the US wanted to break away because of religion.. (if you all read your history books you should know this) The French all but made the difference for the USA, without France, America would of never of won.. (well, we can't say never, we don't know.. but the French were the deciding factor) As for Canada.. the French were treated rather poorly.. Canada basically remained a British colony until 1982 when we signed away from them, while some may argue the Queen still appoints a representative to Canada.. it's just a figure head and they have no power.. If the Govern General actually tried to dissolve Parliament, I suspect the Supreme Court of Canada would strike it down rather quickly..

[History lesson end/] :P

1st of all... whats that to do w/ florida?...... and 2nd...... i KNOW all that already :P as i said...... brits even more important influence and canada....... etc etc..... not in detail at all...... but ..... go back and read :P

think she ment the FL story earth

Actually the French helped the Americans far more then Canada. I'm actually 1/2 French Canadian.. I might know a little on the subject. Canada was basically the same as the USA.. a British colony in every sense of the word.. where as the US wanted to break away because of religion.. (if you all read your history books you should know this) The French all but made the difference for the USA, without France, America would of never of won.. (well, we can't say never, we don't know.. but the French were the deciding factor) As for Canada.. the French were treated rather poorly.. Canada basically remained a British colony until 1982 when we signed away from them, while some may argue the Queen still appoints a representative to Canada.. it's just a figure head and they have no power.. If the Govern General actually tried to dissolve Parliament, I suspect the Supreme Court of Canada would strike it down rather quickly..

[History lesson end/] :P

1st of all... whats that to do w/ florida?...... and 2nd...... i KNOW all that already :P as i said...... brits even more important influence and canada....... etc etc..... not in detail at all...... but ..... go back and read :P

Haha, sorry, I quoted the wrong person..lol was meant for "Our Earth" I'm sorry... :oops:

think she ment the FL story earth

Actually the French helped the Americans far more then Canada. I'm actually 1/2 French Canadian.. I might know a little on the subject. Canada was basically the same as the USA.. a British colony in every sense of the word.. where as the US wanted to break away because of religion.. (if you all read your history books you should know this) The French all but made the difference for the USA, without France, America would of never of won.. (well, we can't say never, we don't know.. but the French were the deciding factor) As for Canada.. the French were treated rather poorly.. Canada basically remained a British colony until 1982 when we signed away from them, while some may argue the Queen still appoints a representative to Canada.. it's just a figure head and they have no power.. If the Govern General actually tried to dissolve Parliament, I suspect the Supreme Court of Canada would strike it down rather quickly..

[History lesson end/] :P

1st of all... whats that to do w/ florida?...... and 2nd...... i KNOW all that already :P as i said...... brits even more important influence and canada....... etc etc..... not in detail at all...... but ..... go back and read :P

Haha, sorry, I quoted the wrong person..lol was meant for "Our Earth" I'm sorry... :oops:

no problem..... geeze this is addictive ..... posting..... its almost 5 am!! :? ..... 8 am class..... im gunna b a zombie!!!

no problem..... geeze this is addictive ..... posting..... its almost 5 am!! :? ..... 8 am class..... im gunna b a zombie!!!
School is for fools! fuck that class!

no problem..... geeze this is addictive ..... posting..... its almost 5 am!! :? ..... 8 am class..... im gunna b a zombie!!!
School is for fools! f--- that class!

last full week of class before finals........ if i fuck it....... ill prob fail....... especially this class (international econ policy) its KILLING me....... damn graphs!

Ya' know. I've never personally understood the animosity that Americans and Canadians supposedly have for one another. Together, we could do much. The world is much too hostile for cultures as similar as the USA and Canada to remain divided, especially with a rising China and EU. Granted, as far as sociopolitical models go, Canada is closer to Europe, but in every other aspect it is closer to America. With most of North America's resources and Canamerica/Americada's affluent population base, we'd be even more powerful than the current USA. Eventually, if we so desired, we could control all of North America, and then South America, then the Solar System. We'd be unstoppable.

Ya' know. I've never personally understood the animosity that Americans and Canadians supposedly have for one another. Together, we could do much. The world is much too hostile for cultures as similar as the USA and Canada to remain divided, especially with a rising China and EU. Granted, as far as sociopolitical models go, Canada is closer to Europe, but in every other aspect it is closer to America. With most of North America's resources and Canamerica/Americada's affluent population base, we'd be even more powerful than the current USA.

And now it is time for my obligitory rant on why China won't be an major economic power in the coming decades, shortened due to exhaustion;

China's "One Child Policy," newly relaxed has left it with a large retiring class, a small working class, and a large dependent child class. Between all of these and the opening of China's borders to foreign trade the stability of China's already fragile economy is quickly vanishing. There are millions in China today working for higher pay than they are producing because of promises of a job for every worker made by the old Communist government. As long as Chinese workers remain unproductive and the working class remains overburdened by dependents the Chinese economy will grow grudgingly at best. However, in the coming years with a new large working class and a comparatively small retired class along with the death of most laborers still working under the promises of old, the Chinese economy will be primed to explode into economic super-stardom in the middle of this century.

Ya' know. I've never personally understood the animosity that Americans and Canadians supposedly have for one another. Together, we could do much. The world is much too hostile for cultures as similar as the USA and Canada to remain divided, especially with a rising China and EU. Granted, as far as sociopolitical models go, Canada is closer to Europe, but in every other aspect it is closer to America. With most of North America's resources and Canamerica/Americada's affluent population base, we'd be even more powerful than the current USA. Eventually, if we so desired, we could control all of North America, and then South America, then the Solar System. We'd be unstoppable.

After Earth...there's a lack of resistance, so the solar system would be litarally handed to us :P

Ya' know. I've never personally understood the animosity that Americans and Canadians supposedly have for one another. Together, we could do much. The world is much too hostile for cultures as similar as the USA and Canada to remain divided, especially with a rising China and EU. Granted, as far as sociopolitical models go, Canada is closer to Europe, but in every other aspect it is closer to America. With most of North America's resources and Canamerica/Americada's affluent population base, we'd be even more powerful than the current USA.

And now it is time for my obligitory rant on why China won't be an major economic power in the coming decades, shortened due to exhaustion;

China's "One Child Policy," newly relaxed has left it with a large retiring class, a small working class, and a large dependent child class. Between all of these and the opening of China's borders to foreign trade the stability of China's already fragile economy is quickly vanishing. There are millions in China today working for higher pay than they are producing because of promises of a job for every worker made by the old Communist government. As long as Chinese workers remain unproductive and the working class remains overburdened by dependents the Chinese economy will grow grudgingly at best. However, in the coming years with a new large working class and a comparatively small retired class along with the death of most laborers still working under the promises of old, the Chinese economy will be primed to explode into economic super-stardom in the middle of this century.
Hopefully you're right. I don't know much about economics, so I'll take your word for it. The USA does need to be weary of China, though, so as to maintain her global predominance. We'll need Canada as an ally against the EU, then.

After Earth...there's a lack of resistance, so the solar system would be litarally handed to us
Well, Canamerica's glorious conquest of the universe needn't
be executed in that particular order. :) We could always take and exploit the rest of Solar System, and become so firmly entrenched in desirable areas as to become the dominant world power until our conquest of the Americas. Granted, we don't have the technology to properly exploit space at the moment, but if we could get exclusive access to the resources of the rest of the solar system, and exploit them in an economically feasible fashion, we'd
be an unassailable position. Complete conquest of the Earth wouldn't be a good idea, as that would just lead to eventual stagnation.

Has anyone thought that alt spacebastards might be Snubis?

Has anyone thought that alt spacebastards might be Snubis?
Check out their nations. Chances are that if you already suspect that they're the same person, and their policies are exactly the same, then they probably are the same person.

We have no need to think about other nations unless there's a reason to think about them. The media is the cause of the problem.


I totally agree with the last part. But as a citizen of the world aren't you the least bit concerned with the rest of it even if it has nothing to do with you directly?

I am, I love hearing about world news. Unfortunatly, I cannot speak for 250 million+ Americans.
Not to nitpick, but it's 300 million now.

This whole thread..

Bwhahahahaha!

Ok, now that is out of my system, there are a lot of people talking here who apparently know nothing about Canada..

It's funny though.. :lol:
Why is it so funny? You apparently know nothing about the US yet that doesn't stop you from blabbing.

This whole thread..

Bwhahahahaha!

Ok, now that is out of my system, there are a lot of people talking here who apparently no nothing about Canada..

It's funny though.. :lol:

We're talking about Canadians that know nothing about America, no?

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)
Canadians *think* they know a lot about the US but they usually don't. Case in point.

I think it's more then fair to say that Canadians know a hell of a lot more about America then Americans know about Canada.. because Americans don't care to know about any one but themselves.. so they stereotype.. I suppose the crutch of the blissfully unaware... ;)

Indeed.

Colodia. Do you know how ironic your statements sound? Have you spent one full year in any of the European countries you see as inferior?
I may not have spent one full year in the US but I spent the whole of the summer of 2003 in California and I didn't much like what I saw.
Not surprising. Most Americans snicker at the thought of California.

You people see yourselves as the centre of the world, drinking your watery beer and eating your bland hotdogs-
I always laugh when Canadians mention their beer as one of the main reasons why their country is so much better.

I realize Canada is not European, but they might as well be for all the terrible economy, high unemployment and pathetic health care they provide their citizens. France, Britain and especially Ireland fare no better, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands are so backward they remind me of Southern Mississippi, USA.
hey ass face, don't talk shit about Mississippi.
I just did. :roll:

hey ass face, don't talk shit about Mississippi.
Don't flame.

http://www.bigwig.net/~bbw10606/pwned.gif
Tactical Grace
Forum Moderator

I love the way both sides of this argument stereotype both Americans and Canadians, it almost hilarious.
To the author, I'd like to wonder, he makes an argument that Canadians have an inferiority complex, due to "some girl/guy" he's met/heard about/knew at some some point in time, and then uses this to extrapolate that all Canadians are the same. It'd be funny, if many people didn't do the same thing on a daily basis with most groups and/or issues. As a Canadian, I can tell you this, I don't think much about the US, except when context demands it. I don't wander around life, constantly thinking about America, and worrying/wondering about what they're going to do next. As an example, I work for a company which does a fair amount of business in the US, so when I'm in the US, I'm thinking about it (obviously) although more along the lines of where I'll be staying and where to eat, how to get there, etc... If I hear a new story about the US, my wife and I may discuss it for a few minutes, or I'll think about the story for a short while, and of course while on here, where every second thread seems to be about how bad/good/evil the US is. Beyond those instances, I don't think about it.
Now I realize this is how I live my life, but I expect that most people live there lives the same way, both Canadians and Americans. I would no more expect a Mississippi farmer(as an example) to be spending all of their time thinking about the goings on in Canada, then I would expect a Newfie fisherman to be spending all of their time dissecting the US. They just don't figure much in each other's lives.

And the bit about "the general American". I mean, what is an American? From what I've seen (and I have seen a lot of the US), it amounts to anyone having citizenship (no different than a Canadian is a person who has Canadian citizenship). Paint any picture of the average American, and I can rip it down in seconds. Do they need to be patriotic? Nope, not even remotely. Whether you like it or not, even the Mountain militamen, who are actively training to overthrow the American government, are Americans as much as any Muslim with citizenship (even if they support terrorist views) is an American, and as much as any person on this board who has citizenship is an American.
Nobody here can lay explain "the American way of life", as it would be a fallacy. Is it baseball and hot apple pie? Only if you like baseball and hot apple pie. Is it being a good Christian? Last I saw, Buddists and Muslims could also be Americans, so that's not it. Is believing in "Freedom' (whatever that means), and Liberty (this too), required to be "An American"? Nope, not according to any laws governing the US.

As for the argument, "you can't know what it's like being an American, unless you've lived here for at least a year". The argument is laughable at best, mostly just pathetic. I'd hazard a guess that the average L.A. street kid doesn't know a bloody thing about life on the plains of Nebraska, or the farmer in Nebraska knows squat about life in the swamps of Louisiana. A fisherman in Maine I would think, would probably know more about life in Nova Scotia, then life in California. The point being, I doubt very much that anybody here really know's what it's like to live like "an American", because there is no American way of life. Most people have a pretty good handle on what life's like within there own sheltered little community, and some have lived in multiple communities, so have a slightly wider view of life in different parts of the country. Many people have visited other communities (hardly enough though to count as "knowing" what life there is like though), and most have peeked at part unknown through the lens of the media (which of course provides a concise and accurate description of each "community" viewed). Overall, I doubt very much that the person who stated that only people living in the US have the right to criticize has lived in enough of the US, to be able to talk about very much of it him/herself.
I'd hazard to guess the I (a Canadian) have seen more of the US then most people on this board, as my job requires me to travel often throughout the United States, and I don't care for flying so I usually drive. I have been in every state in the US, with the exception of Hawaii (:( someday), and met Americans from all walks of life in all facets of daily existence. I lived in Virginia for 2 years, while my Dad (a member of the Canadian Navy) trained American naval personnel in communications at Virginia Beach Naval Base. So, does this mean that I have more right to discuss "Americans" then anyone else??? Not as far as I can see, or desire for that matter. We can only allow people to discuss what they wish, and espouse whatever views and/or beliefs that they desire (shy of personnal attacks). Hopefully through open dialog, and open minds, people can let go of useless stereotypes (of which we are all guilty), and get on with actually learning about other people and other peoples lives. Individuals are much more interesting, and important than some useless label (American, Canadian, British, etc...) used to try and homogenize huge vasltly differing personal lives.

As nobody can adequately define an American, so nobody here can define a Canadian, shy of possesion of citizenship. Anything further is just a lie, or attempt to belong to some percieved mythical collective conciousness

anyway, my rant for today, feel free to flame away

later

Has anyone thought that alt spacebastards might be Snubis?

You're pretty bright.. I hadn't even thought to check.. Don't feed the troll.. Since Snubis has freely admitted to being a troll and this is obvious trolling on Snubis's part. That get's him a DEAT because Snubis doesn't get any chances on Nationstates any more after the crap he pulled on all the players here.

Thanks for the tip Sdaeriji..:)

Snubis you're so busted.


Stephanie
Game Moderator

Has anyone thought that alt spacebastards might be Snubis?

You're pretty bright.. I hadn't even thought to check.. Don't feed the troll.. Since Snubis has freely admitted to being a troll and this is obvious trolling on Snubis's part. That get's him a DEAT because Snubis doesn't get any chances on Nationstates any more after the crap he pulled on all the players here.

Thanks for the tip Sdaeriji..:)

Snubis you're so busted.


Stephanie
Game Moderator

Stephi...you're my heroooooo....hehe

Most Canadians only "think" they know more about Americans. And this belief being reinforced by the ever witty Rick Mercer and his comedy bit;"Talking to Americans" where he catches people believing the stupidest things about America. Fact is, you could do the same exact show in Canada and I could the same responses from people.

I tried it out on a CEGEP class full of people by telling them that Wyoming state had just decided to build a state capital...an entire city since it lost there first one to Native American raids long ago. Most people believed me. If you ask Canadians what American state surrendered to British forces in 1812 most will not know what to answer. Canadians are just as clueless about America as America is about Canada. With over 300 million people between us, and an expanse of territory that puts Europe to shame, we can't keep track of every idiot and moron who walks about.

Americans are not dumb or gullible, at least not more so than anyone else on this planet.

Canadians are not the smart asses they make themselves out to be.

And I only live in Canada. So this is what I've seen up to now...

Oh and the reason we are massed on your border is that in case of invasion or trouble, we will declare war on you and surrender to the Vermont National Guard. 8)

Has anyone thought that alt spacebastards might be Snubis?

You're pretty bright.. I hadn't even thought to check.. Don't feed the troll.. Since Snubis has freely admitted to being a troll and this is obvious trolling on Snubis's part. That get's him a DEAT because Snubis doesn't get any chances on Nationstates any more after the crap he pulled on all the players here.

Thanks for the tip Sdaeriji..:)

Snubis you're so busted.


Stephanie
Game Moderator

I am so great!
I am so great!
Everybody loves me!
I am so great!

Has anyone thought that alt spacebastards might be Snubis?

You're pretty bright.. I hadn't even thought to check.. Don't feed the troll.. Since Snubis has freely admitted to being a troll and this is obvious trolling on Snubis's part. That get's him a DEAT because Snubis doesn't get any chances on Nationstates any more after the crap he pulled on all the players here.

Thanks for the tip Sdaeriji..:)

Snubis you're so busted.


Stephanie
Game Moderator

I am so great!
I am so great!
Everybody loves me!
I am so great!
Feh, I got that "NEW GIRL...*smile*" girl DEATed with my TATTLETAILING powers!

Ahh what the heck, we're both great and everyone loves us....but mostly me...*smiles*

......And on that note my American & Canadian friends.. lets call it a day :P

Lock request in moderation.. I'm inclined to grant it.

iLock


Stephanie
Game Moderator