If America Always Comes First, Then Who Is Second?
Start writing a post
Politics

If America Always Comes First, Then Who Is Second?

The Importance of Political Satire and a Rising Trend

14
If America Always Comes First, Then Who Is Second?

In his Inauguration Speech, 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump, stated that his domestic and foreign policies will focus on “America First”. In response to Mr. Trump’s declaration, a number of European countries’ comedy channels, starting with the Netherlands’ comedy show "Zondag met Luback," have presented their nations mimicking Donald Trump’s style of rhetoric. This trend has gained popularity and an increasing number of European Late Night Shows are making their own versions.

The style of the videos is a parody of a tourist commercial for a specific country. The videos are addressed to Donald Trump and their aim is to convince the US President why the particular country should be placed second. In order to achieve this goal, the countries present some of their practices and traditions through the lens of what President Trump thinks constitutes a great nation. The different countries also emphasize their superlatives over other European states, in order to prove their point. For greater persuasive effect, the narrators of most videos aimed to capture Mr. Trump’s diction and even his tone of voice.

Although the videos are mainly humorous, they may be viewed as a critique of President Trump’s way of thinking. This new trend is controversial and may not be to the liking of some; however, it’s existence is important. Satirical commentary on current events can bring awareness towards the discussed subject matter and it shows that those who do not agree with such policies and ideas can freely express their opinions. In modern times, social media has allowed for information to spread more quickly and widely. So, news from one country can reach other countries very quickly, creating an atmosphere of discussion and worldwide political awareness. Therefore, people from different countries with similar ideas can communicate more easily and start trends such as this one.

Another beneficial outcome that these videos can have, is that they can ignite people’s interest in the specific country. Although the landmarks and traditions shown are purposefully selected to emphasize a point, the videos still show some of the cultural traits of the specific nation presented.

The Late Night talk show hosts from some European countries have even set up a website, where the current videos are gathered.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

71381
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

133457
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments