Nine years after Charlottesville, the GOP embraces heritage-based nationalism
Marking the anniversary of the 2017 Charlottesville rally, Republican leaders are promoting a “heritage American” narrative that ties U.S. identity to colonial ancestry.
The piece reflects on the August 2017 Charlottesville incident, highlighting the fatal car attack on counter-protester Heather Heyer. It observes that contemporary Republican rhetoric, exemplified by JD Vance’s remarks at the 2024 Republican National Convention, emphasizes a “heritage American” identity rooted in colonial, Anglo-Protestant lineage.
The article contrasts this stance with Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch’s affirmation that the nation is founded on shared ideas, not on religion or common heritage. It also mentions other right-wing commentators like Tucker Carlson who echo the heritage narrative, underscoring an ongoing cultural debate over America’s defining principles.
Why it matters
The shift toward ancestry-based nationalism could reshape political discourse and policy priorities in the United States.
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