As an American, having lived in shame of her country's government for the past 6 years, I am curious as to how I am perceived by people in other countries. I have long felt an affinity with other nations, hoping to spend my life in many (namely England, France or Italy, perhaps even Canada)..if nothing else, I want to travel to said countries as soon as possible. Should I wear an "I'm American; I apologize" shirt, or simply avoid stating my country of origin? I've spent these years of shame hoping that my fellow beings realizes all Americans are not the same, but I can't really know the truth without hearing it firsthand. Cheers.
Answer on Perception of Americans?
I'm a Canadian and I used to live right across the river from Detroit. I've travelled extensively in your country, so hopefully I can help.
What has struck me most about visiting Americans is how often they are rude. While not always the case, I've often been treated like a second-class citizen in my own country by visiting Americans. On the other hand, when I visited the US I found that most Americans treated me very well (especially in the South!), more like a respected foreign dignitary than a visiting neighbour. This contrast is odd, and a bit disturbing.
You are right that most of the rest of the world hates your government's foreign policy. Some people may take this out on you, but if you tell them how you feel about your own nation's policies they'll probably come around and tell you to keep up the good work. Most intellegent people realize that not all Americans are as dumb as your leaders (and media) make you seem.
If you are going visit another country, I suggest you do some research on that country and try and have some good, local topics of conversation. Everyone in the world knows what's happening in US politics, but most Americans seem to know nothing about the politics outside their own state. For instance, most Americans (at least, most that I've met) think that Toronto is the capitol of Canada, and many have never even heard of Ottawa. Have something interesting to say about politics in the country you're visiting (in Canada, maybe compare Bush to Harper and Clinton to Martin) and people will probably turn right around. You may even be able to make people feel better about the US by demonstrating how intellegent and aware Americans can be.
About the T-shirt: I think it's a great idea, but only if you're going to have something intellegent to say when people inevitably ask you about it. Luckily, you sound like a person who will have something very smart to say.
I hope this helps!
