This week, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith discusses the potential fallout of Donald Trump's return to power, stressing her opposition to energy export cut-offs to the U.S. Amidst concerns of tariffs, she emphasizes a diplomatic approach. Historian Amy Greenberg sheds light on Manifest Destiny, exploring its historical significance and its lingering impact on U.S.-Canada relations. The conversation reveals the complexities of energy trade and the moral implications of American expansionism, sparking reflections on national identity.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith cautions against retaliatory threats to energy exports, emphasizing their interconnectedness and potential harm to Canadian interests.
Historian Amy Greenberg explains how Manifest Destiny shaped historical U.S. expansionist policies, fueling a narrative of superiority that influences current American foreign relations.
Deep dives
Canada's Strategic Response to U.S. Tariff Threats
Canadian leaders are deliberating on how to respond effectively to President Trump's threatened tariffs, particularly concerning the oil and gas industry. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of Canadian and American energy markets, warning that retaliatory measures could backfire. For example, she notes that cutting off energy exports would harm Canadian interests, as it would disrupt supplies to Ontario and Quebec. Instead of introducing drastic measures, she advocates for realistic and implementable solutions that foster diplomatic dialogue over punitive actions.
Manifest Destiny's Enduring Influence
The concept of Manifest Destiny, which suggests that the United States is destined to expand across North America, remains relevant in contemporary discussions on U.S. policies. Historian Amy Greenberg highlights how this idea drove historical conflicts, such as the Mexican-American War, where territorial expansion was often rationalized through a belief in American superiority. The ideology behind Manifest Destiny sparked aggressive annexations and framed the acquisition of land as not just a right but a duty. Greenberg notes that this historical narrative continues to resonate today as it reflects America's broader ambitions and foreign relations.
The Complexity of Canadian-American Relations
There exists a complex undercurrent of tension in Canadian-American relations, historically fueled by desires for territorial expansion on the U.S. side. Despite the outwardly amicable relationship, Canadian politicians have often expressed concerns over American ambitions, as illustrated by former Prime Minister Mackenzie King's acknowledgment of U.S. leaders seeking dominance over Canada. Throughout history, episodes of expansionist sentiment often led to fears among Canadians about the security of their territory. Greenberg argues that these anxieties have persisted, suggesting that it is crucial for both nations to acknowledge their shared history while fostering stronger diplomatic ties.
Gender Dynamics and Manifest Destiny
In exploring the cultural implications of Manifest Destiny, the discourse often intertwines with notions of masculinity and power. Greenberg discusses how the belief that U.S. power and expansion were divinely ordained contributed to a specific brand of American masculinity, which celebrated dominance through force. Prominent leaders, such as President James K. Polk, exemplified this attitude, promoting aggressive expansionist policies as a demonstration of strength. This interplay between gender and expansion reflects broader societal values at the time, showcasing how self-perception of national identity was intricately linked to concepts of manhood and dominance.
Donald Trump’s return to power could have serious consequences for Canada. First, there’s the threat of tariffs. Then there’s that other thing about making us the 51st state. This week, we get two takes on the situation.
First on the show, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith talks about why she opposes the threats to cut off energy exports to the U.S. in retaliation for tariffs. It's a position that has caused some politicians to say she’s working against Team Canada.
Then, Penn State historian Amy Greenberg talks about Manifest Destiny, the idea that Americans had a divine duty to expand their territory. Her books include A Wicked War and Manifest Destiny and American Territorial Expansion.
Season 3 of The Paul Wells Show is sponsored by McGill University’s Max Bell School of Public Policy.
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