American Political History: Unusual but not Exceptional

American history, including the last 10 years, is marked by political violence and turmoil, but this is not exceptional. The current tough moment reflects a long history of political violence that waxes and wanes. Despite its challenges, this period is not the worst in American history and should not be exaggerated. The history of gun violence and the rise of violence-related polarizing issues such as gun rights and abortion are driving forces behind political polarization and violence. However, the idea of a second civil war is mostly alarmism, and the focus on Trump alone does not address the broader issues at play in American politics.