Episode Summary: "We’re Taking Patriotism Back with Heather Cox Richardson"

Introduction

In the July 1, 2025 episode of We Can Do Hard Things, hosts Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle engage in a profound conversation with renowned historian Heather Cox Richardson. The episode delves into the concept of patriotism, its historical evolution, and the ways it has been co-opted in contemporary American society. Richardson offers a meticulous analysis of patriotism's transformation, exploring its roots post-World War II and its current misrepresentation in today's political landscape.

Reclaiming Patriotism

The discussion begins with Amanda Doyle addressing the problematic use of patriotic symbols by groups that perpetuate division and oppression. Wearing a flag adapted to include the Pride symbol, Doyle expresses her frustration with individuals who misuse symbols like the "Don't Tread On Me" flag to convey exclusionary and oppressive messages. She challenges Richardson to explain how patriotism, originally a unifying force, has been hijacked by factions that promote treasonous ideologies.

Historical Context and the Liberal Consensus

Richardson provides a comprehensive overview of the post-World War II "liberal consensus," a period when Americans broadly supported government intervention to regulate businesses, provide social safety nets, and invest in infrastructure. She highlights that this era fostered a sense of community and equality, transcending political party lines. However, she points out that Republican businessmen and racists opposed these measures, advocating for individualism and minimal government interference, which laid the groundwork for the current misappropriation of patriotic symbols.

The Cowboy Myth and Its Realities

At [12:11], Amanda Doyle emphasizes the myth of the independent cowboy, drawing parallels to contemporary figures like Elon Musk who project an image of self-sufficiency while relying heavily on government support. Richardson elaborates on this contradiction, explaining that historical cowboys depended significantly on federal resources and communities, debunking the lone individualist myth that has been perpetuated to undermine collective government efforts.

Wealth Redistribution and Political Manipulation

Richardson traces the origins of the misconception that government intervention equates to socialism. She explains how, since the late 19th century, efforts to redistribute wealth through taxation and social programs have been framed as threats to individual prosperity. This narrative has persisted, evolving from post-Civil War resistance to Reconstruction and the Department of Justice's enforcement of equal rights, to the Reagan-era rhetoric against government regulation and taxation.

Contemporary Implications and Reclaiming Community

The conversation shifts to the present, where Richardson observes that the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few has been masked by rhetoric that blames marginalized groups for economic disparities. She draws historical parallels to the late 19th century, illustrating how wealthy elites have consistently resisted wealth redistribution by demonizing collective support systems as socialist threats. This manipulation has led to a fragmented sense of patriotism, where symbols like the American flag are no longer universally representative of national unity.

Vision for a Reclaimed Patriotism

Richardson envisions a renewed patriotism rooted in community, equality, and collective well-being. She advocates for ordinary people to reclaim symbols of patriotism by emphasizing the value of communal support systems such as education, healthcare, and public infrastructure. By fostering a collective identity that prioritizes mutual aid and equal rights, Richardson believes America can overcome the divisive misuse of patriotic symbols.

Personal Reflections and Call to Action

Glennon Doyle shares her emotional connection to patriotism, reflecting on her experiences representing the country as an Olympian. She expresses gratitude for Richardson's efforts to redefine patriotism, which helps her reconcile her personal sacrifices with a broader, more inclusive national identity. The hosts emphasize the importance of community, art, love, and other elements that sustain individuals and empower collective action against authoritarianism.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Richardson highlighting the power of collective action and cultural expression in reshaping national identity. She draws inspiration from historical movements that successfully expanded democracy and redistributed wealth by fostering inclusive communities and challenging entrenched power structures. The hosts reaffirm their commitment to supporting such endeavors, urging listeners to engage actively in building a more equitable and unified America.

Notable Quotes

• Heather Cox Richardson [07:16]: "The idea that we have ceded the images of American patriotism to people who appear to hate most of the people in our country is a real problem."

• Amanda Doyle [04:20]: "This is my problem right now. Every time I see some disgruntled old white man with a Don't Tread on Me flag, I just want to scream from the core of my being."

• Heather Cox Richardson [30:36]: "What was patriotism is now rebranded as socialism."

• Glennon Doyle [47:37]: "I think it's so important that not only are you using your voice, but you're giving people the real information."

• Heather Cox Richardson [51:43]: "That's exactly right. And that's also how we have managed to expand democracy in the past."

Key Takeaways

1. Historical Misappropriation of Patriotism: Patriotism has been historically co-opted by factions opposing government intervention and social equality, transforming it into a symbol of exclusion rather than unity.

2. Role of Government in Promoting Equality: Post-World War II government policies aimed at regulating businesses and providing social safety nets fostered a sense of community and equality, which has been undermined by ideological shifts advocating extreme individualism.

3. Myth of the Independent Individual: The romanticized notion of the self-sufficient individual, epitomized by the cowboy myth, ignores the communal and governmental support systems that have always been integral to American society.

4. Economic Redistribution as Patriotism: Efforts to redistribute wealth and provide social services have been wrongly labeled as socialism, obscuring their foundational role in fostering a cohesive and equitable society.

5. Reclaiming Authentic Patriotism: A renewed sense of patriotism should focus on community support, equality, and collective well-being, moving away from divisive and exclusionary interpretations.

6. Empowerment Through Collective Action: Building inclusive communities and challenging entrenched power structures through art, education, and mutual support are essential for redefining and reclaiming patriotism.

Final Thoughts

We Can Do Hard Things successfully navigates the complex interplay between patriotism, history, and contemporary politics with Heather Cox Richardson. The episode serves as a clarion call to listeners to critically examine and reclaim the true essence of patriotism, fostering a united and equitable American society.