Patriotism has been, is and will probably be one aspect of life that will stir up the emotions of people.

I can certainly say that I am patriotic, for it is a sense of identity that is either given to us by the country of our birth or naturalisation. There is nothing more singularly universal and integral to a person than their identity, so hence patriotism runs deep in everyone I would say..

Patriotism for me is summed up for two contrasting points of view..

Firstly, Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the American Declaration of Independence and third President presents a rather dark and equally necessary view on Patriotism.

The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.

Thomas Jefferson

I want to preface my exposition of Jefferson’s well renowned quote, by saying I do not condone violence.

I truly, believe that Patriotism does however, require the sacrifice of martyrs and the removal of tyrants. As the old saying goes, desperate times call for desperate measures..

A country may find itself in turmoil and strife, where oppression abounds, the voice and rights of the people are being trampled on the basis of race, religion class or creed. In such a state, the tree of liberty requires the swift and lawful action of the enlightened to uphold the constitution and values of a country.

On the other hand, but equally crucial is the view presented by Adlai Stevenson, that a intermittent impassioned desire for social change or patriotic fervour is not true Patriotism.

Patriotism is not a short and frenzied outburst of emotion but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.

Adlai Stevenson

Patriotism, must be a sustained effort to uphold the laws of the land, good values and tangible contribution to the betterment of life in that country.