Where Did The "American Exceptionalism" Mantra Come From?

By Chris Rossini

Americans are constantly reminded by politicians that they are part of an "exceptional nation." Over and over, the phrase is drilled into American minds as if we're all part of a 'power of positive thinking' retreat, and politicians are our therapists.

What's going on? Why are they constantly trying to reassure us of this "exceptional" status? Why won't they just leave us alone to run our own lives without having to listen to their mantras?

Well, as it so happens, America is an...