Part 2/13:
In the context of Independence Day celebrations, the conversation shifts to the common refrain that “we used to be a country,” expressing a sense of loss or disillusionment with America’s current state. This sentiment underscores ongoing societal divides, suggesting that many Americans feel disconnected from the patriotic ideals of the 1990s—an era often remembered as a time of unity and strength. The phrase “we used to be a country” has become a common lament, reflecting cultural nostalgia amid a backdrop of polarization.