Americano A short history of America - Simon Jenkins
Oct 25, 2025
Simon Jenkins, a veteran British journalist and former editor, dives into his book on American history. He discusses the unique factors that shaped the United States into a global power, highlighting the significance of compromise in the Constitution and the impact of war on federal authority. Jenkins reflects on America's moral complexities, from its treatment of Native Americans to the struggles with identity and interventionism. He also examines contemporary issues, including Trump's influence and the persistent dysfunction of Congress.
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Founding Compromise as Enduring Experiment
- Simon Jenkins sees American history as an ongoing experiment shaped by energetic compromise between different English-derived cultures.
- He argues the Constitution embodies that compromise and kept the union together despite deep regional tensions.
America Was Already Civilized
- Jenkins highlights pre-Columbian complexity to show modern America was built on a populated, sophisticated land.
- He stresses European colonists conquered well-established civilizations rather than settling empty lands.
Dual English Legacies Shaped America
- Jenkins attributes English colonial success to settlers' industrious, opinionated character and mixed social models from Virginia and Massachusetts.
- He says that dual legacy of gentry and hardworking nonconformists fed into the Constitution's compromises.
