Introduction
The Star-Spangled Banner has become a central tradition in the expression of American patriotism, mainly during U.S. sporting events. The lyrics were written by Francis Key Scott and adapted from a poem called “Defence of Fort M’Henry.” It was inspired by the Battle of Baltimore as the patriots fought against the British for independence. It was first played during the baseball World Series spontaneously in 1918 for recognition of WWI. By 1941 the National Football League (NFL) declared the singing of the National Anthem to be standard practice before every game. The NFL Super Bowl has grown into an all-around American tradition. In reaction, the Department of Defence (DOD) has delegated a Paid Patriotism budget for sporting events to continue these commemorations. This budget accounts for any affiliations to American patriotism, including the performance of the Star-Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful, the presentation of the national flag and colored guards, as well as the jet flyover.
The government leverages national sporting events to promote additional patriotism within American cultures. This is achieved through auditory and visual symbolism to spark emotion and create relationships. The specific methods that are used include singing of the National Anthem, showcasing the American flag, the military, as well as the football teams. The linkage between the government and the NFL, binds American culture so that these timeless traditions remain relevant within the lives and hearts of millions of Americans.
Sonja K. Foss defines ideology as “a system of ideas or a pattern of beliefs that determines a group’s interpretations of some aspect(s) of the world.” In this ideological analysis, I will be focusing on a patriotic ideology by examining an artifact to discover the underlying beliefs, values, and assumptions it suggests. To accomplish this, I will be identifying the presented elements and then moving into analysis to uncover the deeper meaning(s) they suggest. I will then evaluate these beliefs to determine their broader implications on this ideology and its significance to our society.
I have chosen the 2020 Super Bowl National Anthem performance as an artifact for two purposes: (1) The Super Bowl has become extremely popular within American culture, and a staple within American culture, and (2) this particular Super Bowl marked the NFL’s 100th anniversary, as well as the 75th anniversary since the end of WWII. Through the examination of this artifact, I will explore how patriotism has been integrated into national sporting events and what this suggests about our culture.
Why patriotism is considered an Ideology
Foss identifies some elements that are usually addressed within an ideology. These elements include membership, activities, core beliefs, defining events, sacred text, ultimate authority, and values/norms. I will be analyzing a few of these characteristics to deepen the implications of the patriotic ideology. This will serve to legitimize the relevance and impact on modern society.
Defined by the Lexicon dictionary, patriotism is “having or expressing devotion to and vigorous support for one’s country.” In terms of American patriotism, membership broadly includes individuals who aline and support the values of the United States. The core beliefs of American patriotism are rooted within the very history of the nation, July 4th, a day of American Independence (also the defining event for this ideology). The core values could be cited from the Declaration of Independence: “life, liberty, justice, and the pursuit of happiness.” These principles are quoted from The Declaration of Independence, which could be argued as the sacred text for this ideology. The ultimate authority could constitute the federal government and those that hold office, such as the President of the United States. Patriotism is also deeply rooted in the idea of a democratic government, that separates the ultimate power into three branches, Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. Value and norms could be considered as acts of patriotism and applied patriotic etiquette. These elements will be further explored and analyzed through the duration of this criticism.
This ideology can be considered hegemonic because it sponsors a position of dominance. According to Foss, this standpoint must be maintained by reinforcement, renewal, and continual defence through the use of rhetorical strategies and practices. This is evident when examining the consistency of the National Anthem presentation in sporting events. It became a standard practice after the end of WWII. This timing is an important consideration when examining the overarching purpose: the support of the war.
Artifact and Method
To identify the presented elements, I will be analyzing the singing of the National Anthem from a youtube video, provided by the official NFL channel. I will be focusing my research on the camera footage of this live performance, and on who/what is being featured during this two-minute video. The NFL chose to commemorate its 100th anniversary, as well as 75 years since the end of WWII, by inviting four 100-year-old veterans to honor the U.S military. This celebratory decision emphasizes not only how integrated U.S. tradition is relevant today, but it draws an appropriate example of how patriotism is present within American sporting events.
The Performer
The National Anthem was sung by pop artist Demi Lovato. She has 60 music awards, including the Teen's Choice Award for Female Artist And People's Choice Award of Favorite Pop Artist. Her performance of the National Anthem was, therefore, relevant to today's American mainstream culture. It can be inferred that choosing a popular American vocalist to sing the National Anthem is an attempt to keep this 206-year-old song relevant to its audience. It also keeps the American people engaged and anticipating such events. It can be further suggested that the performance of the National Anthem without a pop icon, would lose importance to the eyes of the public. Bringing a well-known artist year after year makes this song relevant to an ever-changing modern culture.
Furthermore, the National Anthem is sung during the opening ceremonies of every sporting event. This display is purposely repetitive because it keeps the patriotism relevant and constant within our modern culture. It serves as a constant reminder of American values to integrate the idea of patriotic values and keep them enriched within contemporary culture. The lack of repetition and the performance of popular vocalists could result in a loss of patriotic profit and cultural capital.
The Flag and Military
The presentation of the performance summons attention for further analysis. Demi Lovato takes center stage on the field, behind her are members of the Color Guard, raising the American flag in salute. The flag is spread out across the field, held by volunteers wearing clothing in the colors red and blue. The presentation of the flag on the field is meant to unite football with American values. Metaphorically, it is used as a tangible simile, as it compares two, unlike things to establish a meaningful relationship. Moreover, this image creates a connection between the U.S. and pop culture because the U.S. flag and field are in no way related independently. However, the representation of the flag on the field cultivates a deeper meaning of importance as this tie represents in our culture. For further explanation, the "whole" is greater than the sum of its parts, meaning that the U.S. Flag and the football field validate each other. Additionally, their shared relation enriches the values they both represent within modern culture.
The location of the flag in the center-field is an essential aesthetic to its presentation. The national flag is a symbol for American values, such as freedom and liberty; these points are reiterated when the flag is exhibited. It could be implied that the masculinity of football restated the position of "the fight for freedom." The color guards and military "fight for our freedom and liberties," as they represent defendants of our country. This value works collaboratively with the idea that our players fight for their title as the Super Bowl champions.
Furthermore, these teams have fans that root for them, just as it is indicated that Americans should support our military. Showcasing the military serves as a strategic method to remind the American people of those who serve and the sacrifice these individuals are making to protect our rights. Not only does the NFL showcasing the military presented at the games, but clips from military bases are also broadcasted. During this particular performance, soldiers at Al-Udeid Airbase in Qatar were featured lined up with an army helicopter in the background. The soldiers did not make eye contact with the camera; instead they maintained a rigid formation. This body language indicates their discipline and obedience, both of which are ideal characteristics in a strong military. The helicopter served to reiterate the technological power and advantage the U.S. military prides itself on. Showcasing featured elements serve as a visual reminder of the values of sacrifice and honor. It creates more of an impact for people that are not familiar with the lifestyle, to see these images rather than hear about them.
Symbolism is also presented by the colors red, white, and blue, and they are worn by the individuals that hold the flag and Demi Lovato. These are the colors of the national flag and therefore represent American values. Red is a symbol of courage and bravery; white represents purity and innocence, and blue signifies perseverance and justice. These values aline with American core beliefs on bravery and independence. After all, “home of the brave” is a lyric in the National Anthem. These values strengthen each other when they are coupled together.
Patriotism indicates endorsement and loyalty to one’s country. This can further mean the support of the war. This takes the form of aggression towards the opposing side because war indicates that our freedom or liberty is in danger of being compromised. Because the symbolism of freedom and bravery are reiterated every time the flag and National Anthem are presented, so are our ideas about what we fought for. Furthermore, these symbols and values are presented in the location of a favorite American pastime, football. The government is aware that paring nationalism with something Americans are previously passionate about, such as sports, offers an opportunity to establish a patriotic relationship. This may result in people being more likely to align with the American government agenda due to the deep tie between government and American values. After all, this budget was decided by the federal government, and the idea of democratic governance is so embedded within American history and ideals.
The Football Players and Coaches
The artifact includes footage featuring team members and coaches, all of which are using appropriate National Anthem etiquette. This includes taking their hats/helmets off and placing their right hand over their hearts. This detail advocates for linking patriotism to football, as the players and coaches serve as positive role models during this performance. Furthermore, their high status as professional athletes only adds to their patriotic dedication and exemplary Americans. This image is commending the youth on how to appropriately behave and respect the values and norms associated with American patriotism.
It wasn’t until 2009 that football teams were present on the field during the singing of the National Anthem. Broadcasting the reactions of America’s favorite football players is highly strategic in connecting football to patriotism. They are admired by the public and serve as an example of what respect towards the military should look like. The artifact highly emphasizes the starting quarterbacks from each team: Patrick Mahomes II and Jimmy Garoppolo. Mahomes was named the 2020 MVP during the Super Bowl. This fact serves to reiterate his popularity and high status, which is why he received so much attention during the singing of the National Anthem. The live video also highlighted team members that looked particularly moved and emotional. Perhaps this would add a more significant emotional appeal and therefore add an extra layer of patriotic example.
Audience Reciprocation
The team members are considered part of the audience, and they showed an extreme sense of emotional pride on the camera. As previously noted, this serves to regulate how people feel about country-pride. Another critical mention of audience precipitation was when Demi Lavato sang the line of “home of the brave.” The audience chose to join her in singing this line, despite not singing the rest of the song. This indicated they are incredibly proud to be a member living in “the home of the brave.” This was their method of conveying this message as a united group of people sharing a sense of national pride. It can be suggested that although these patriotic elements are highly strategic on the part of the U.S. government, they are also taken willingly by the audience.
Implications
Based on the analysis of this artifact, a few key points have been identified on how impactful American football and the singing of the National Anthem are in producing patriotism within U.S culture. Firstly, the presentation of the National anthem and flag serve as timeless reminders of our history. They emphasize our past and symbolize freedom and bravery. Secondly, the presence of a famous vocalist and active military creates a connection between traditional customs and modern-day interpretations. This makes the traditions timeless and relevant within today's culture. Thirdly, showcasing football players and coaches during the performance ties a popular sport in modern-day culture to these traditions.
The use of these three elements in the pursuit of implementing patriotism suggests that the motive of the government to sponsor such performances is to integrate unity within American society. This aids the government in gaining support and sponsorship from the general public. These practices serve to establish trust and loyalty between the government and its people. The government uses this as a way to unite the people in their favor and support values such as bravery and freedom. This also takes a hegemonic stance by establishing dominance over other countries by showcasing the unity of our people, as well as the strength of our military. Therefore, it can be reasonably implicated that paid patriotism is as much as a performance as it is a unity and war tactic in intimidation. These elements strive to strengthen the core values of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" by implementing solidarity with social norms and actions. It can reasonably be inferred that these are the motives for integrating patriotic acts into U.S. sporting events.
References
Barrón-López, Laura, and Travis Waldron. “Pentagon Paid Up To $6.8 Million Of Taxpayer Money To Pro Sports Teams For Military Tributes.” HuffPost, HuffPost, 19 Dec. 2016, www.huffpost.com/entry/defense-military-tributes-professional-sports_n_5639a04ce4b0411d306eda5e.
Dibble, Madison. “NFL to Honor 100-Year-Old WWII Veterans during the Super Bowl.” Washington Examiner, 2 Feb. 2020, www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/nfl-to-honor-100-year-old-wwii-veterans-during-the-super-bowl.
Kight, Stef W. “The History of Singing the National Anthem before NFL Games.” Axios, 26 Sept. 2017, www.axios.com/the-history-of-singing-the-national-anthem-before-nfl-games-1513305769-97a4edd0-6748-432d-b1cc-2b377848e712.html.
Sugarman, Jacob, and Ilana Novick. “How the Pentagon Paid for NFL Displays of Patriotism.” Truthdig, 26 Sept. 2017, www.truthdig.com/articles/pentagon-paid-nfl-displays-patriotism/.
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