Dear Editor:
RE: Narrative silenced, Aug. 3.
In reading Janet Calderwood’s letter, I immediately thought of a quote from U.S. President Ronald Reagan which resonates when I read articles such as the above. A part of that quote applies here: “It’s just that they know so many things that aren’t so.”
A single paragraph stood out in sharp contrast to the others. I will only quote the beginning words of that single sentence paragraph: “Anyone who even slightly knows the long history of the United States …”
I know the “long history,” as it was a subject which I taught for more than three decades, and Calderwood is clearly in error when she characterizes the U.S. as having “limitless desire for land and power,” and comparable to Russia’s current invasion of Ukraine.
An implication to link U.S. military bases in “80 countries” immediately follows, apparently to justify earlier statements. A number of those bases are in countries which first attacked them and they exist to help prevent recurrences, but the majority are by invitation in countries for support and mutual protection. Think NATO.
Perhaps if she were to learn about the Marshall Plan? Or do a study of SCAP ? Or Chamberlain’s “peace in our time” consequences? Or, for that matter, the Ogdensburg Agreement?
There are many Canadians who bash the U.S., knowing little about them, but are more than happy to take advantage of the more than 60% of our imports that we get from them. Perhaps they can demonstrate their displeasure by having no connection to them? Especially with their foodstuff exports to us? After all, actions speak louder than words.
Edward Vanover,
Guelph