Much of that unity is really myth – and that’s ok. When people are calling for unity and bipartisanship, it’s really a call for the elimination of dissent. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging that there are conflicting interests. The spike of nationalism following 9/11 was not felt by all, and it was very uncomfortable for those of us who didn’t sing the same tune. This was a very dark time, and it led to a murderous invasion of Iraq, for example. So, I don’t think “America” has really ever united – it’s just been good at getting enough nationalistic fervor whipped up (especially in the political and media realm) that imperialist ambitions can proceed. When the cost of empire starts being seen in the lives of Americans or high costs, dissident voices can start to be heard. And these are the times that are described as being “divided” or “troubled”. However, these are really the most healthy of times.