[Vision2020] Nationalism In Iraq

[Garrett Clevenger]

One thing I find ironic is that you usually think of the citizens of a 
country fighting for their own independence (ie, the American 
Revolutionaries)  So suppose that the Iraqis heading back to their country 
are really intent on fighting an invasion from a foreign country (even if it 
is "clannism," they are still fighting for their independence).  Suppose 
these revolutionaries win, while also overthrowing Saddam's regime.  
Certainly we can't predict the future political system of Iraq, but in a 
sense by securing their victory themselves, they have a bigger stake in 
their country.  Like the American Revolutionaries who were in charge of 
forming the US, they will then be in charge of forming Iraq.  This seems 
fairer then an imposed political system by the US, even if it is democracy 
we are trying to impose.

If the US defeats the Iraqi Revolutionaries, we will defeat the spirit that 
is necessary for a countries self-determination.  Could you imagine France 
imposing it's political views on America if they were soley responsible for 
liberating the colonies from Britain?  One could argue that there are Iraqis 
that want the US to impose its will on Iraq, but this is still a western 
imposed value in the middle of the middle east.  Certainly this would be 
better for US interests, but it is not the same as the people of a country 
fighting for their own independence.

Just a different way of looking at this.  I won't say what is better, but it 
is interesting to contemplate the different scenarios that could play out.  
It is also interesting to see the passion of some Iraqis who are willing to 
fight the US invasion, in spite of the harsh regime of Saddam that is now 
present.

No matter what, the situation fills me with dread.

Thanks to everyone who replied to "Your Position on the War in Iraq" post.

Peace on,

Garrett Clevenger

http://www.icehouse.net/garrett

"What are we doing to our Home?!:("

_________________________________________________________________
The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*  
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail