Define strength.
Were we strong when we compromised and enslaved a people for decades?
Were we strong when we brokered and broke several treaties in the Indian Wars?
Were we strong when we denied half the population the right to vote?
Were we strong when we outlawed criticism of the state?
Were we strong when we put our citizenry in camps due to their ancestry?
Were we strong when we persecuted people based on their political beliefs?
Were we strong when we segregated society based on race?
Were we strong when we manipulated foreign elections? Supported despots?
Were we strong when we responded to being attacked by stripping rights and invading a country on false pretense?
This whole myth that the United States only now under the Obama administration has problems in regards to human rights, foreign intervention, wealth distribution, and corruption demonstrates a staggering lack of knowledge of the history of this country.
I am perfectly fine with criticizing the President, in fact I'd encourage it. However, this hyberbolic nonsense of "worst ever" and how things "have never been so bad" comes from a place of ignorance. Obama didn't create Guantanamo, the Patriot Act, chronic debt, wealth inequality, racism, globalization, and many other problems and challenges we face. Have I disagreed with him at times? Yes, but I also understand the limitations on the office and how we have a president that works with a congress rather than a dictator.
We can do better, but frankly I think the harsh question Americans need to ask themselves is what type of president do they deserve? I look at the two major nominees in 2016 and I would call out the electorate and question their strength of character in these times.
