Understanding the Trump Doctrine Through American History

Edward Stourton's book, *Made in America*, argues that Donald Trump's presidency is not an aberration but rather a continuation of longstanding themes in American history. Stourton examines six key aspects of Trump and Trumpism—religion, imperialism, immigration, tariffs, political persecution, and the wielding of power—drawing parallels to historical precedents that illuminate the roots of contemporary American politics.

The Guardian

Stourton traces the imperial ambitions of the United States back to the 19th century, highlighting significant events such as the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, which doubled the nation's size and set a precedent for territorial expansion. He notes that this expansion often involved the displacement and ethnic cleansing of Native Americans. The U.S. government’s aggressive land acquisitions, including the forced cession of territory from Mexico, illustrate a historical pattern of using various means—diplomatic, coercive, and violent—to achieve national goals. This historical context frames Trump's contemporary aspirations regarding territories like Canada and Greenland as part of a broader, historical narrative of American expansionism.

The Guardian

Stourton delves into the influence of Christian nationalism on Trump's support base, particularly among his "MAGA" followers. He references John Winthrop, a Puritan leader who envisioned America as a "city upon a hill," suggesting that the alignment of Christian values with Trump's political agenda is rooted in early American history. This historical lens helps explain why some Christian nationalists support Trump despite his perceived moral failings, as they believe he is facilitating a return to a divinely sanctioned America.

The Guardian

Critics of Trump's presidency, including Stourton, argue that his actions reflect an illiberal and imperialist streak in American politics that contradicts the nation’s foundational ideals of liberty and equality. Stourton draws parallels between Trump’s tactics—such as summary arrests, media attacks, and tariffs—and historical precedents like the Alien and Sedition Acts of 1798 and Andrew Jackson's defiance of the Supreme Court. This historical analysis positions Trump as a modern embodiment of these troubling aspects of American governance.

The Guardian

Stourton asserts that understanding Trump requires a deep dive into American history, stating, “you cannot understand America without understanding Trump.” This perspective challenges the notion that Trump represents a departure from American values, instead framing him as a logical outcome of historical trends.

The Guardian

• “as American as apple pie” — Edward Stourton, Author

The Guardian

• “The outcome always came first,” — Edward Stourton, Author

The Guardian

• “you cannot understand America without understanding Trump” — Edward Stourton, Author

The Guardian

Stourton's exploration of Trump's presidency through the lens of American history suggests that the contradictions inherent in U.S. politics—between enlightenment ideals and illiberal practices—are not new but rather deeply embedded in the national narrative. His conclusion that Trump is an American phenomenon invites readers to reconsider the complexities of American identity and governance in light of its historical precedents.

The Guardian