Hello everyone! Today we will again dive into the policy of the 47th president of the USA, Donald Trump, but this time we will look at his actions through the lens of history. The Founding Fathers of the United States laid down principles that they believed would ensure the prosperity and greatness of the new nation. But do today's trade wars and the potential loss of U.S. international standing align with the vision they nurtured?

Let’s figure out what 'America First' policy means for the world and whether it truly is the path charted by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and other architects of the American dream.

1. Trade Wars: From Free Trade to Protectionism. What Would the Founders Say?

The Founding Fathers, although cautious about 'entangled alliances,' largely understood the importance of free and fair trade for economic growth. They believed that the prosperity of the nation depended on its ability to exchange goods freely.

Donald Trump, for his part, chose a path of aggressive protectionism, imposing tariffs on imports to protect American manufacturers and jobs. His philosophy was centered around creating 'fair conditions' by pressuring countries that he believed were engaging in 'unfair' trade practices.

What Might Surprise the Founders:


  • The scale of tariffs and 'tariff wars': The Founders might have approved of tariffs as a source of revenue for the state, but the scale and confrontational nature of modern 'trade wars' with major partners could surprise them. They sought stability rather than constant tension in trade relations.


  • Uncertainty and Chaos: The idea of constant uncertainty for businesses due to sudden tariff changes would likely contradict their vision of a stable economic system. They sought predictable rules.

The Consequences of 'Trade Wars' (From the Perspective of the Founders):


  • Rising Prices for Consumers: The Founders sought prosperity for citizens. Rising prices for goods due to tariffs hitting the pockets of ordinary Americans would hardly be approved. For example: More expensive appliances or imported cars for American families.


  • Retaliatory Measures and Harm to Exporters: In response to U.S. tariffs, other countries imposed their own tariffs. This harmed American farmers and companies relying on foreign markets. Such 'retaliatory strikes' would contradict the idea of overall economic growth. For example: American farmers lost markets for soybeans in China.

2. U.S. Authority in the World: From 'Beacon of Freedom' to 'Loneliness'?

The Founding Fathers saw the United States as a model republic, a 'city upon a hill' serving as an example of freedom and democracy for the whole world. They sought to avoid 'entangled alliances' but believed in the importance of diplomacy and peaceful coexistence for the new nation to thrive and spread its ideas.

The policy of 'America First' under the leadership of Donald Trump aimed to strengthen the sovereignty of the United States but often led to tensions in relations with long-standing allies and questioned the role of international institutions.

Did the Founders Want Such a Role?


  • Undermining International Alliances: The Founders, while wary of eternal alliances, understood the importance of international cooperation for peace and security. Withdrawal from international agreements (e.g., the Paris Climate Agreement, the Iran nuclear deal) and constant criticism of organizations like NATO could have raised their concerns. They valued stability and international respect.


  • Decline of 'Soft Power' and Influence: The 'beacon of freedom' shines brighter when its principles and values are spread through cooperation and understanding rather than unilateral actions. Reduced participation in international dialogues and organizations could be seen as a loss of opportunities for U.S. influence.


  • Unpredictability: The Founders, as statesmen, valued predictability and stability in foreign policy. Sudden changes in course could be seen as a risk to the long-term interests of the nation.

Conclusion: Modern Challenges for Eternal Legacy

The policy of the 47th president, Donald Trump, which includes trade wars and a focus on 'America First,' raises fundamental questions about the path of the United States in the 21st century. Does this path align with the vision that the Founding Fathers nurtured, seeking prosperity, security, and moral leadership for their nation?

Clearly, the world has changed, and modern challenges require new solutions. But it is crucial that these solutions align with the principles upon which America was built. Is the current course a strengthening or a deviation from the ideals established generations ago? This is a question that requires ongoing analysis and discussion.

What are your thoughts: Is Donald Trump really leading the U.S. down a path that the Founding Fathers would approve of? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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