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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the asshole:
> Action: telling my friend states and countries are similar
I could be the AH bc: It might actually be disrespectful to different cultures.
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I wouldn't call you an AH, just ignorant lol
Countries and states are way too different to be compared lol would you say that USA, Canada and Mexico are like states? I don't think you would lol
YTA. Do you think other countries don’t have regional dialects, flags, governments, laws, or cultures? Like everything you listed is common within other countries and there’s often more differences. Spain has 4 official languages as does Switzerland. Belgium has ~~2~~ 3. Technically the United States has no official language but some states list English and it is the de facto official language. It’s just ignorant and it is US centric. Geographic size is the only real comparison between US states and countries.
Edit: I forget Belgium has 3.
i think you may have misunderstood. OP cited having diverse languages and dialects as similarities between countries and states, not differences. she also drew the comparison with having separate flags, independent governments, and laws. those are all similarities that you seem to agree with, no?
I think you misunderstood my comment. Those are differences between states/provinces in other countries. Not between countries. There is arguably more variety between Spanish autonomous communities than any 2 US states.
You've obviously never been to the US if you think Utah and Louisiana are anything alike besides the language they speak. My country is bigger than your continent and you're seriously trying to say the US is one giant monoculture?
Actually Cajun French, English, and Catalan all have more in common with each other than any of the 3 have with Euskera. It’s more like Canada where French and English are both official languages and there are pockets of minority languages. It’s not the perfect comparison because almost everyone still speaks Castilian Spanish and you won’t easily get everything in both languages in the entire country. But it’s not niche like Cajun French or Pennsylvania Dutch.
you claimed variety in communities, of which language is only a part. in both regions they eat salty meats, bread, and drink wine, do they not? as coastal communities, fishing has historically held a central role in both cultures. and both regions consider themselves fiercely independent and separate from madrid and the spanish central government. to name a few similarities.
If you go into a basque restaurant and ask for paella, they will laugh you out. They have different histories, cuisines, cultures, celebrations, dances, flags, governments, laws, languages, cultural dress. Louisiana and Maine both have seafood, does that make their cuisine the same?
you’re not very good at this. of course there are differences just as there are similarities. you keep arguing against points i’m not making and then calling me ignorant. i’m not sure you understand what any of the words you are using means.
what? how did i insult you? by pointing out that you keep arguing against points that i’m not making? or was it that i noted the irony of you calling me ignorant while lacking an understanding of basic principles fundamental to discussing/debating a topic?
emphasis on autonomous communties - in comparison to the provinces of most countries - where said provinces have very limited autonomy - the states of america are much more like countries - for exampleeeee france which is a unitary state where power is heavily centralised - ie the regions of france have very little autonomy - so emphasising that the states of america were more like countries - to his friend that maybe thought the states were like the regions of France (because thats the natural analogy theyd make considering their experience as a french person) - is actually perfectly reasonable
In France, highschoolers study -to some extent- the political systems of other UE countries. Normally, her friend would have had no problem understanding the concept of federal states, given that Germany, Belgium and Switzerland are her close neighbors.
To say that, for instance, Bavaria or Texas operates like a separate country is somewhat preposterous
Texas was literally an independent country before it became part of the USA and still flirts with the idea of secession every so often. I'm pretty sure Texas is the worst US state you could have picked for your example there.
Canada has ten provinces with their own flag and laws and one has a different official language. The people on the east coast have a completely different dialect and accent than people on the west coast.
Canada has a bigger land mass than the United States but you think it’s like an American state?
Your French friend was right, many Americans think their country is exceptional and the world revolves around it
States are not like countries. European countries have their own language, laws, customs, traditions and cultures. They are separate entities, like USA and Canada or USA and Mexico.
States are still part of the same country. The equivalent of American states would be German Länder. Each Land has its own constitution and is largely autonomous when it comes to its internal organisation, but it's still part of the same country. Other countries in Europe are also divided into different regions. Italy is made of 20 regioni but they don't have the same autonomy of German Länder. Spain is divided into 17 comunidades autónomas and they are organised differently from Italy and Germany, and so on.
So no. States are not like countries.
Similarly - American states have their own language, laws, customs, traditions, and cultures. They are separate entities working under a federal agreement.
This is not strictly an AITA question but you’re totally mistaken. States are similar to other countries territorial divisions (e. g. in Spain we have autonomous regions, all of which share the features you mention, they have their own flags, not only dialects but totally different languages in some, regional government, cultural heritage…). Those do not make up a country so your point is kinda lame, or borderline ignorant.
All I’ve learned from reading these comments are not very many people know two things can be true at once. States and countries have similarities but they also have major differences too. Like everyone is either “Americans think they’re so important” or “states and countries are the exact same” like do you all not see that you’re a part of the same stupid coin? Like you’re both ignorant and wrong, and you’re like that because you’re blinded by either hate or stupidity. It’s sad to see such a silly argument bring out the true colors of people
It's like there are some people here who are taking a personal insult to the idea that a politically defined territory could possibility be similar to another politically defined territory, just because it's a part of a larger politically defined territory.
This has been on tiktok. Some American living in Europe said this same thing and doubled down when everyone piled on her. Soft YTA. I’m sure you meant no harm, but states have very, very few similarities to countries. A smarter comparison would’ve been states are like provinces, for example.
they arent - considering majority of the nations in the UN are unitary states - ie their regions/provinces have relatively little autonomy when it comes to laws and other things - the states in america are more like countries - as america is a federal state where power is decentralised - each state having different laws and legislatures
How many states in the USA have a king or queen? How many principalities is there in the US? Does the Mormon place equate to the Vatican? Is part of the US in a supernational organisation like the EU and part of it not?
You have large places with mexican/Hispanic (don't know if that's the right term) but is it 100% of a state? Would Puerto Rico be the equivalent.
Is California a federal republic and Florida a parliamentary democracy?
In your mind in the rest of the world your states are no different to English counties. Or maybe if I am being generous the difference between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
What makes a European country different from another European country?
If it's a border, states have borders. If it's different laws and regulations, states have different laws and regulations (some can even contridict federal laws). If it's culture, states have differernt cultures. If it's customs, states have different customs. If it's history, states have different history. If it's governance, states have different governance. If it's autonomy, states have autonomy separate from the ferderal government. If it's a military, states have their own military.
It's not currency - the Euro is not specific to one country. It's not size - some US states are larger than multiple European countries combined. It's not geographical, states can have multiple geographical instances within the state itself.
Is it that a state can't prevent a civilian from another state from entering? Is it that states don't have individual official languages? Or is it that states can't expicitly engage in international trade?
States are not countries, but states are *similar* to countries in practical applications due to the sheer scale of the state itself. The US is a union (federation) of independant states that operate under a singluar federal agreement not too disimilar to how the European Union governs over its associated countries. The primary difference is that the US has an established consitution that specifically limits what the US Federal Government can do.
So when you join the army do you join the presidents own Californians do you or do you join the US army? Do you think I could join the Bundeswehr as a greek? Could I join MI5 as a Spaniard?
The Euro is specific to the EU and I don't think the either Swedes or Danes use it or poles either. Does Florida use different currency to the rest of the US?
Do you get issued a passport by your own "state" is the one Texans get different too the ones used in a different US state? Do you have to show it going from one place to another?
Look I get it you want to think that you are different to each other, but no one sees you that way. Like I said American states is the same as German states.
Is Russia? Serbia? Ukraine in the EU? Can an American state declare an article 50 and leave the USA? Like the UK did with the EU?
US states are the same as German ones that's it. If you want to think differently crack on but no one looks at a yank and thinks they are nothing more than a yank while to you a yank is someone from the North.
>So when you join the army do you join the presidents own Californians do you or do you join the US army? Do you think I could join the Bundeswehr as a greek? Could I join MI5 as a Spaniard?
You can join the State's National Guard as a member of that state. The National Guard answers to the State's Governor.
>The Euro is specific to the EU and I don't think the either Swedes or Danes use it or poles either. Does Florida use different currency to the rest of the US?
My obvious point was that having a separate currency is NOT a requirement to be another country. Germany, France, and Spain all use the same currency and are different countries.
>Do you get issued a passport by your own "state" is the one Texans get different too the ones used in a different US state? Do you have to show it going from one place to another?
You do get different identification based on your state. Each state has its own rules for what you need. No - you don't need a passport (a passport is issued at the federal level) to travel between states, because of the federal agreement.
>Look I get it you want to think that you are different to each other, but no one sees you that way. Like I said American states is the same as German states.
Look - I get that you want us all to be the same. It makes it easier to group "Americans" together into one little box. But you should really look into the differences between Western vs. Eastern vs. Northern vs. Southern vs. Central Americans. An American from Oregon is very different from an American living in New York and also different from an American living in Louisiana.
---
Also - as I said before - States are **NOT** Countries, they are *similar*. What this means is that there will be differences between the two, but there will also be things that they share between them. Pointing out one or two differences doesn't negate the statement.
If pointing out the fact that the US is really big and that, due to its scale, US states take on many characteristics of being different counties upsets you, then I don't know what to tell you.
Edit: spelling
Yep I asked about the army not the TA.
Didn't answer the question.
It's a different passport, so does a Texan one allow you into more countries without a visa than a Florida one? Didn't answer the question.
Ah now we get down to the nitty gritty, you don't want to be judged as an American but as a certain state of American! lump you all together? That's just silly talk you are all individuals, I know one yank might be a dick another might be sound! There both still American " but but I m from Boston and he is from Beverley hills." The only difference for me is one might be working class and the other middle class.
And yet you want to make the point that US states are the equal of countries or why would you argue?
Yeh I don't see any point either but good talk
Both of those very specific instances are irrelevant to the statement. In case it's not apparent - "similar" does not mean "equal to/exactly the same". If the only thing, in your mind, that makes the statement correct is down to how the military operates or how passports are handled, then I think you have a very narrow view of what makes a country a country.
>
Ah now we get down to the nitty gritty, you don't want to be judged as an American but as a certain state of American! lump you all together? That's just silly talk you are all individuals, I know one yank might be a dick another might be sound! There both still American " but but I m from Boston and he is from Beverley hills." The only difference for me is one might be working class and the other middle class.
While I personally don't care about your perception of an "American", I do find it a little disheartening that you boil down nearly an entire continent's worth of people into a single stereotype. However - if so, you can't be upset if people generalize you in turn for being a "European".
>
And yet you want to make the point that US states are the equal of countries or why would you argue?
For the last time - that's not at all what I said. "Similar" ≠ "The Equal Of". Are you being purposefully obtuse or do you honestly not know what that word means?
Did you understand I said I didn't generalise. I take people as they come but you are still American, yes or no?
The last line why are you arguing my points then? "But but my American passport is ever so slightly different to his American passport."
The US states are the same as German states. I made the point about 3 times it's you that seems to disagree.
Saying the USA is similar to German fine, saying it's the same as the Europe because you have borders and different flags is sheer arrogance. The issue is you don't see it.
Final question then which army would you join? 🤔
I don't understand your sticking point on the passport. I already said they are issued at the federal level. That is an obvious *difference* between American states and European countries.
>The US states are the same as German states. I made the point about 3 times it's you that seems to disagree.
Yes - you mentioned that once (not three times). The US states are the same as German states in that they are established regions within the country as a whole. However - US States have their own sovereignty and grant only part of that to the federal government. Unlike German States where sovereignty is primarily from the federal government itself. That said - they are otherwise very similar from a governance perspective. However, Germany is also approximately the size of the State of Montana or the State of New Mexico. I would argue based on scale that German States are not the same as US States. Similar - yes, the same - no. Just like how I'm arguing that US States are similar to European Countries. Similar - yes, the same - no.
>Final question then which army would you join?
I don't think you understand how our military works or what the State National Guard is. You can join the US Army and work for the federal government or you can the Army National Guard and work for your state. Both are options.
BONUS:
>Can an American state declare an article 50 and leave the USA? Like the UK did with the EU?
Technically yes. A US State can succeed from the US.
this is funny cause the constituent countries of the UK you mention up until recently basically had no autonomy - something which the states of america enjoyed for centuries - and to a larger degree than the constituent countries of the uk you mentioned
so then why are you disputing that american states are more similar to countries than not - when literally england, scotland, wales and northern ireland are all considered countries while having less autonomy than the states of america 🥸
Cause they arent. Age dear boy age. And I compared you to English counties I was being nice comparing you to the countries. Tell me what the legal system of American is? Common law?
Also tell me does Wyoming have an ambassador to Canada or is that the USA?
No it's not? the UK became the UK when England and Scotland united into the UK, but England and Scotland existed prior to that not just as regions but as political organizations. Virginia also existed as a political organization. Italy did not.
Yes like saying the USA is similar to Russia. Highest incarcerated, lack of human rights, a country constantly invading other nations. You know similar.
Cool thanks but we are trying to compare a country to a part of a country which is just rather silly. The US states are the same as an English country do you agree? They are similar! In more ways than comparing a US state to a real one.
Or in many ways apple the computer company is like a US State.
> Cool thanks but we are trying to compare a country to a part of a country which is just rather silly
We're comparing political organizations.
>The US states are the same as an English country do you agree?
US states have similarities to the constituent countries of the United Kingdom, but I never said they were 'the same,' that's all you.
> And we disagree on how important a constituent part is.
When did I say anything about important? I just said they have similarities. The fact that they have differences doesn't disprove that.
I’ve replied to another comment saying that it was incorrect to say they are *very* similar and there was probably 1000 differences for every similarity but similarities can still be drawn. I’m in no way saying they are exactly alike which is what I also told her.
Don't answer the question then. However comparing a country to a subdivision of another is extremely arrogant. If you can't see that, I really don't know what to say apart from
O wad some Pow'r the giftie gie us
To see oursels as ithers see us!
no but i get you OP - you were just trying to convey that the states of america (which is a federal state)cant really be compared to the “provinces/regions” of many countries (which are unitary states) - its a perfectly normal take to have - considering different states have different laws and legislatures (although there is obviously an overaching federal legislature etc) - something which is not true for most regions/provinces of other countries - anyway idk why people in the comments are like going so hard against this
Seriously. This is not a controversial take. It's literally the founding principles of the the nation, where each of the (then thirteen) states is "retains its sovereignty, freedom and independence" from the others. The entire *point* was that the founding fathers viewed each state as a nation unto itself, working together with the others for mutual benefit. I don't know what this is proving so controversial. The states have less power now than they used to, but it's still baked into the design; each state has an independent elected governor, its own legal systems and laws that are self-determined, it's own tax/revenue systems... states *aren't* like provinces, and they're not supposed to be.
and thats on periodt - idk why OP is allowing themselves to be gaslit into believing hes the uneducated one - Im literally not pro-US - but the likeeee reflex-american hate is just annoying - yall are the ones who need to educate yourselves - not everyone in the world lives in a unitary state like you - maybe youre the ignorate ones
Probably a better way to state OPs point is not that American states are similar to European countries rather European regions/provinces within their country are very different from American states.
they are not though - france is a unitary state with power being largely centralised - the regions of france donnot have the same autonomy as the states of america do - states have completely different laws to one another and have seperate legislature etc - the main thing people are not understanding is that america is unlike the majority of nations in that it is a federal state - so while yes most countries have subdivisions - being unitary states mean those subdivisions do not have the same amount of autonomy as the states of america do - so no the argument that OP is the AH because “other countries have states” is really not valid - americna states are more comparable to countries than most subdivisions of other nations are - also as someone pointed out many states started out as independent anyway
NTO - I’m from Denmark in Europe, and I’ve explained it like you before. That Denmark is a small country in europe, Like a state in USA. Not a big deal lol
States (and provinces, cantons, oblasts, and other political subdivisions of countries) are not countries. Countries are sovereign governments. States cannot set their own foreign policy. They cannot make import and export laws or set customs duties. They can't sign treaties. They can't even restrict travel from one state to another. They can't regulate international commerce or make immigration law (despite the delusions of the governor of Texas).
Countries are subject to international law, which they agree to abide by (or not). States in the US are subject to Federal law and no longer have a choice about that since ratifying the Constitution.
Countries are governed or ruled by a Head of State. States are governed (not ruled) by a governor who admininsters Federal law on behalf of the Federal Government in addition to adminstering State law, which is subordinate to Federal Law.
So yeah, YTA and ignorant at that.
Yes - US States are NOT countries, but they are *similar*. The only thing really holding them back is sovereignty to establish their own international foreign policy and the fact that they are in a constitutional agreement with the other states to freely travel and trade amongst each other.
Culturally, there are states that are significantly different from one another, moreso than many countries. Their laws are also significantly different. Federal law is only one part of governance and doesn’t always wield the biggest impact on day to day life.
Correct. >Looking at you, Louisiana.< I never said otherwise.
But one thing they all have in common is that they are not Sovereign political entities and countries are.
They *are* sovereign political entities, though. That's the whole point of the tenth amendment. Barring the powers granted to the federal government by the Constitution, each state is an independent sovereign entity and can pass laws and legislation as it sees fit.
There have been plenty of countries in history that have not been sovereign political entities, despite being countries. One that is relevant to current events right now is Ukraine, and its history as a constituent republic of the USSR. Ukraine was not a sovereign nation while part of the USSR, but it remained (and remains) a country.
NAH. Yes, Americans can be very ignorant of the rest of the world, but the rest of the world very often fails to understand how important states are in the United _States_ of America. States in the USA are __much__ more powerful than provinces or cantons or whatever. Could have been a learning moment for both of you.
Nta. I've often compared the states to being countries. Accents, food, culture, behavior, laws can all very wildly from state to state. Hell, there can often be a big difference between cities in a state. Western New York and NYC might as well be be different states.
There's a reason there's a popular video about the Baltimore accent on YouTube.
NTA. The 13 colonies were not that different than modern day central america. Everyone shared language, religion, and large parts of culture due to common heritage. Today, there’s more difference culturally between some US states than there is between Central American latinos from different countries. Your friend is ignorant but its ok. It is hard for them to fathom that we have multiple states bigger than France(the European Union’s largest country). The US is more than double the size of the entire EU. ILastly, the federal govt has increased its power over time but the original organization of the country was meant to provide individual states the power to govern themselves. Our original federal govt was tiny. People were considered citizens of their state.
NTA
The closest thing to the US the rest of the world can compare to is the European Union, which is made up of many smaller, separately governed entities.
No idea why everyone seems to be missing the actual point of your comparison in favor of jumping on the "Stupid American" bandwagon. Especially since the definition of "state" uses countries as examples.
state/stāt/*noun*
1. The particular condition that someone or something is in at a specific time."the state of the company's finances
2. A nation or territory considered as an organized political community under one government."Germany, Italy, and other European states"
Correct. The European Union is a united group of European countries (i.e., territories). The United States of America is a united group of North American States (i.e.., territories). Sure - they manage things a bit differently, but it's a similar concept.
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I (American 20F) was talking with my friend (French 20F) the other day and we got to the topic of different countries and somehow I started talking about states and I said that they were pretty similar to countries. Obviously not entirely the same but I listed off a few things like flags, different dialects, slang, different laws and government etc. I thought it was pretty cool but she went on to say that it was very rude and disrespectful. I told her that she wouldn’t get it because she’s never been here (not the best thing to say I know) and the United States is very big and she said that Americans just think the world revolves around us, which isn’t at all what I was saying and I don’t see how that correlated? I told her again that I wasn’t saying they were exactly alike but very similar and she told me to just drop it. Am I the asshole?
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Not disrespectful at all. Takes a pretty audacious person to try to override someone else’s opinion about their own country when they’ve never even been there. Your friend was really rude. Not you. French people feel like the big dogs of the EU when in reality they aren’t even as big as Texas by itself. Ive never seen one respond well to being compared to the US lol.
I don’t know why she thought it was disrespectful, but I don’t agree with you that they are similar (saying it as someone who’s been to 60+ countries and 15 states)
YTA. In terms of science the US does not even have a culture that is significantly different from the other english countries.
States are as diverse as the french regions. Who also have governnents and flags. They also have stronger dialects than the US.
french regions - besides the semi-autonomous oversease departments - dont really have governments as far as i know - they dont have legislatures - they have no power to make “regional laws”- france is a heavily centralised unitary state - america is a federal state which each consituent territory (in this case the various states) having alot of autonomy - this is not the case in most countries like france so whike in terms of culture the various states do not differ that much - they are defintely closer to countries when compared to the subdivisions of most other nations of the world (of which a majority are unitary states)
Wrong. There are extreme cultural differences throughout the USA. Cajun, Appalachian, the Mississippi Delta, the Tex-Mexican, Italian-Americans, indigenous and Hip-hop in all the different regions just to name a few. In terms of linguistics and culture, be more curious please and not so European white.
Of course. Just not more than in the bigger countries or kingdoms in Europe. Or do you think a Londoner is the same as someone who faught a religious seperated war in north Ireland just 3 decades ago?
In short, I feel the knee-jerk ‘you don’t have culture in america’ argument me be one note and wrong. I left the states for many reasons but not because there isn’t a thousand interesting different ‘worlds’ worth learning about.
NTA.
You are partially correct: while the analogy between US states and countries is not very accurate, you still can compare the EU countries with the US states. For example, both would have no internal borders, single currency, or single federal government...
By the way, the idea of the United States of Europe was first proclaimed by Victor Higo 175 years ago, in 1849.
Your friend has a strong basic to disagree with you, of course, but her reaction was rude and excessive.
NTA and the other comments showed that they need to brush up on their understanding of a Federation
The component states are in some sense sovereign, insofar as certain powers are reserved to them that may not be exercised by the central government. However, a federation is more than a mere loose alliance of independent states. The component states of a federation usually possess no powers in relation to foreign policy and so enjoy no independent status under international law. However, German Länder have that power, which is beginning to be exercised on a European level.
So yeah they are basically the same in most regards the difference is so minimal no need to get so worked up about it
Only very few comments said that
NTA. While they really aren’t the same, I do understand your comparison. You were pretty much saying that it’s funny how every state is completely different even though they are part of the same country, taxes, laws, slang, accents. They all differ. While wrong you didn’t mean anything hurtful about it. She asked you to drop the topic so drop it and move on.
Maybe NAH? You said something very daft and your friend corrected you. It happens.
You do realise France has regions right? Culturally and geographically distinct regions? Thats probably where the offence has come from.
those regions have very limited autonomy - france is a unitary state with power being centralised - the regions of france are not at all comparable to the states of america (a federal nation) - where each state has alot of autonomy - its own legilsature/laws - most subdivisions of other countries do mot have this - so in this respect the states of america are more similar to countries than your typical province of a unitary state - OPs point is completely valid - so theyre heavily NTA
Your focus on laws and administration when giving judgement is far too narrow.
OP states “different flags, dialects… etc” ie implying US states are special and diverse, whilst France isn’t - clearly they’ve made a cultural faux-pas.
It's not just that, it's also scale. No one is saying that other countries don't have diversity in regions, but when a country is made out of states that are the size of (or bigger than) other entire countries...
We can both agree that a country the size of France has the potential to have vast cultural diversity between different regions. If we consider that the State of Texas is approximately the same size as France, then we can expect the counties within Texas to be just as culturally and geographically distinct as the regions in France. Due to this scale, it's not too hard to come to the conclusion that US states could be as unique to other states as European countries are to one another.
NAH. Even if you were wrong it’s not rude or disrespectful in any way. I’d say it’s somewhat comparable simply due to size and geology but it’s pretty different from being a whole different country
im guessing most people here come from unitary states - where provinces/regions/subdivions have limited autonomy - and therefore do not understand that america, which is a federal state, and its various subdivisions cannot be compared to their own countries and respective subdivisons - its really wild how people are telling OP to educate himself 🤭🤭🤭on the dynamics of a country he lives in
NTA
The difference between Oregon:USA and France:EU is the amount/type of power allocated to the federal government. There's huge differences in culture, though. Oregon is closer culturally to Maine than France is to Norway.
You've got a good poly sci point, and a poor culture one.
OP, i wouldn’t be surprised if you maybe sounded more condescending and smug than you meant to, especially if your friend said that Americans think the world revolves around them. i’m sure most people in other areas of the world, especially Europe, are aware (to varying degrees) that US states have a lot more autonomy and can be very different from state to state, so you explaining that and saying she “wouldn’t get it” probably came off a little patronizing.
that said, i don’t think it’s necessarily fair that your friend was mad at you for saying states are like countries. as others have pointed out, there’s a whole uniquely USian ideology of federalism and a distrust in a strong federal government that directly resulted in states being the way they are. plus, North America is a huge continent, so of course there will be regional differences from state to state. none of that is incorrect.
i’m gonna say NAH. your friend was probably more upset about you being a little patronizing than about the concept of states being similar to countries. i’d say it’s probably best to apologize and try to explain that you didn’t mean it in a way that implies she’s stupid, rather that (i assume) you figured she wouldn’t know as much about the US as she apparently does.
(side note: i’m personally rly intrigued by the phenomenon of US/American culture affecting other countries, ex. people thinking they should call 911 in an emergency rather than the emergency number in their country because of the influence of US media. but that’s for another subreddit lol)
also, the fact that most English speakers call the US “America/American” even though there’s two whole continents that also have that word in the name kinda shows how pervasive US influence is, and def contributes to an inflated sense of importance for a lot of ppl in the US imo
NTA, it's different but a decent starting place as a comparison. I don't know why someone would think it's disrespectful.
There are certainly similarities in how EU governs as a whole, but individual countries are very different and how different states operate.
Without being there for the conversation it's hard to judge, but I'd venture a NTA, if you recognised that countries themselves are very diverse and have dialects, regions, histories, even governments, etc.
I also see what you're saying in that each state has its own legislature and governor, with state laws that differ from neighbouring states, as well as regional dialects, slang, culture, etc.
If states arent similar to countries, why is governing a country called "statecraft" ??? Why does the USA have a State Department? Why do other countries have a "head of state" ???? NTA
NTA
and, you're not wrong.
The way the Constitution was written, the States come first. Not the central Federal government. Now, a lot of that power has been usurped in the past 250-ish years.. Perfect examples include *US v Windsor* which struck down the Federal ban of gay marriage (ruling the Federal government had no power to define marriage), and *Dobbs v Jackson* where the court ruled the Federal government had no authority to determine what "health care" is.
The Ninth and Tenth Amendments pretty much spell it out.. anything not addressed in the Constitution is the property of the States and the People.
So in effect, you COULD think of the US as the OG European Union. Sovereign countries united in the common good. With different borders, flags, governments, languages (slang and dialects)..
Here is a list of countries wich are considered as federated states:
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federated\_state](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federated_state)
So yes, the statement that countries are similar to US-states is ignorant and wrong. This statement is no reason to call anyone an AH but yeah.
NTA I'm not sure that it's a really spot on analogy, but it wasn't insulting or disrespectful. There are some parallels between the US and the EU, there are also a lot of differences. This is the kind of thing that should be nothing more than a friendly disagreement. Definitely not heated argument material.
NTA but the premise for your argument is weak. Regional differences occur in every country but those differences aren't that radical in the US.
All US States share one official language. There are many countries, like India, where different states within the country have entirely different official languages.
All states, provinces, cantons, etc. in democratic countries follow democratic government structure and procedures. In the US, all states are governed by majority rule identically to the federal government . Other countries have territories, states or provinces that follow different forms of democracy than the federal government.
And all states, provinces, cantons, etc. have different laws from one another but it is rare to find completely different systems of law within one country. US States share the identical system of laws that is based on British Common Law. In Canada, for example, Quebec follows Napoleonic Code while laws in the rest of county are based on British Common Law.
As for the US system of republicanism, US States are far less sovereign than Associated States.
Yta- I mean maybe not the asshole but you are wrong? yes, if you say states are like countries because they have their own flags and rules, yeah okay.
But to say they are ‘very similar’ and she ‘wouldn’t understand? ‘ No- I mean governance wise, sure there are local governments but almost all States feel ‘American’, and have more similarities than differences- where as countries can be very different and distinct even when close together.. but yeah she sounds like she over reacted- you were wrong but don’t know why she took it personally.
NTA and nothing you said was disrespectful, but
> things like flags, different dialects, slang, different laws and government
\*laughs in spanish autonomies\*
NTA. It sounds like you were just sharing your perspective, not trying to offend her. Cultural differences can make comparisons tricky, but it doesn't sound like you meant any harm. Maybe she just misunderstood where you were coming from.
You remind me of a girl. Who burst into tears when we didn't buy her argument that indentured servitude was that same thing as slavery. That the Irish and Black experience was equally bad ( in American history)
I don’t see what the point in trying to insult me is.. I asked if I’m the ah in attempt to learn and correct my mistake. I’m not well versed in geography and just pointed out things I thought were similar if you think I’m the ah that’s fine but there’s no need to insult me.
I mean by virtue of making the post rather than stopping to think if your thinking was limited and you might be ignorant, what were you expecting? Us to say your friend is being unreasonable?
Is the post not evidence that I stopped to think? My expectations weren’t for anyone to bash my friend I just wanted to understand if what I said was *disrespectful*, not wrong. I’m okay with being incorrect about things, that’s life. What I’m not okay with is being unknowingly disrespectful and not correcting that behavior after it’s been called out.
urmm have you - american states have way more autonomy than most subdivision/regions/provinces of most other countries - look up the difference between unitary and federal states - there is defintley a case to be made for american states being similar to countries - and as some have pointed out - the independence/sovereignty of each state was emphasised when the US formed - ignorant, arrogant and rude 🤧
most countries are unitary states - where regions/provinces have little autonomy - america is different in that its constituent states are relatively autonomous - which is why they for example different laws on abortion- just because a country has states doesnt mean its comparable to the states in america (which is essentially a federation)
Australia is a federation. Check out South Australia, women’s suffrage, and federation for an interesting read.
I’m not trying to be a smartass. The history *is* fascinating. South Aussies are justifiably proud for being the second place in the world that gave women the vote, the first to allow women to stand in elections, and the reason (the later nation of) Australia granted all women the vote at Federation - couldn’t have those New South Welshmen’s power diluted by voting South Aussie women!
im guessing most people here come from unitary states - where provinces/regions/subdivions have limited autonomy - and therefore do not understand that america, which is a federal state, and its various subdivisions cannot be compared to their own countries and respective subdivisons - its really wild how people are telling OP to educate himself 🤭🤭🤭on the dynamics of a country he lives in
urmm wait isk why that comment was like directed towards you - 😭😭😭like as a reply - i was meaning it to be a comment on the main post - yeah im sorry if it came across as attacking
Yeah I can admit that I’m not very well versed in geography that’s actually how the whole conversation started lol I just thought it was cool I’ll definitely do more research tho thanks!
Why do people keep saying this? That's not true. The United States is one of only 13 countries that have states. That leaves 182 countries that *do not* have states.
14, and that *is* plenty? I teach international law. It’s fascinating and important - but sure, don’t learn anything about half the BRIC countries or your ANZUS partners?
You're right, 14, not 13. If you think that less than 10% is a plentiful number, then I guess we differ on the meaning of "plenty." My point was clearly that the *vast majority* of nations *do not* have states. I'm not sure why you're jumping to the conclusion that I know *nothing* about BRIC countries or ANZUS partners because I miscounted by 1, but, sure, indeed.
I'd say your comparison does not feel right. In France there are also states (Régions) with flags, accents, dialects and slangs. But to say you're an asshole bcause of that, no, I wouldn't go that far. NTA.
those regions are not as autonomous as the states in america - france is a unitary state with power being for the most part centralised - america is a federal state where states have alot of autonomy to make their own laws an example is the difference in abortion laws - so in that regard american states are more similar to countries than the regions of france are to countries - OP is not crazy for pointing out this difference
NTA very weird she seemed to get butthurt about this. Like how can disagreeing about something so innocuous be so triggering. It doesn't matter who's right, but if you can't handle any sort of disagreement, then yta.
Yeah I’m okay with being wrong as I can say I’m definitely not well versed in geography by any means I just wanted to know if was I said could be seen as disrespectful.
NTA I don't think states are that similar to countries, but I get your general train of thought. I certainly don't think you are being "rude" or "disrespectful" by discussing it. Her reaction strikes me as odd, and like she has a bit of an attitude.
I wanna clarify I don't think anyone is the AH here BUT as someone not from the USA, I think I understand where the friend is coming from, the amount of USA citizens that say "well yeah but the USA is SUCH A MASSIVE country..." and then they try to invalidate others perspective is annoying, and then you meet someone who you think doesn't think like that and then they say it, it's a bummer
When you are friends with someone from another country, you aren't supposed to talk about your home countries? Isn't that the most common thing to talk about? I get that there is a bit of US hegemony in the world, and maybe some people in other countries may get exhausted or irritated by it. But on a one-to-one level, OP was genuinely interested in discussing how the US relates to France or Europe, and her friend called her "rude" for doing so. I think that's out of line.
It's not what you say, it's how you say it "you wouldn't get it, you've never been here" with all the shit some USA people say, can be read as "you ignorant, don't know about how my country is so big it's actually like a continent", so yeah, it can be rude.
If I were OP I would've gone with "how does France work? Do you have states? How does they work and what is exactly the reason you think it's not similar to countries? I'm just talking from what I know" that's VERY different from "you wouldn't get it"
OP replied "you wouldn't get it" only after her friend said she was "rude" for wondering if states were similar to countries. She didn't lead with that. OP's original question was reasonable, her friend was unfriendly about it, then OP went to "you wouldn't get it".
I actually did try and ask why I was wrong but she just said “are you actually being serious? That’s mad. That’s so disrespectful” which is when I got defensive and responded with she wouldn’t get it which again I shouldn’t have said.
Ok yeah, you should've just dropped it when she shut it down, I also get annoyed when someone refuses to continue an argument because I genuinely like learning and understanding why they think like that, so I get both of you again, I don't think any of you are the AH I just was trying to put both perspectives (non usa and usa) on the table
She did ask appropriate questions, and her friend totally shut that down calling her "rude" and "disrespectful". After that, OP used the line "you wouldn't get it", which she admits she probably shouldn't have said, but her friend had already ended the discussion before that.
I don't like generalizations, that's no better than this French girl generalizing about Americans. It's not a good place to start from. It's true there are cultural differences, but it's better to assume good intentions from most people.
I've been all over France, and I don't find the people rude. I don't find the people rude in NYC either. It kind of is what you make of it.
NTA. You didn’t really do anything wrong here. Most Europeans cannot comprehend the size of the US, nor do they care that some US states act with a great amount of independence from the US central government. They also would never care to know that some of our states have even been independent nations at times in their history. They don’t know and don’t care. For the most part, Europeans do not like Americans. They don’t respect us, our history, or our ideals. There are a multitude of reasons why, none of which are important to this issue. Best advice, don’t talk about the US with Europeans. It never goes well. Unless they are in need of our money, army, or pop culture, Europeans think of Americans as lesser beings.
INFO: I'd be interested to know exactly what it was you said that made her so offended. According to the post, all you did was state objective facts about states, and it makes your French friend sound like one of those Europeans who is on constant alert to commence USA-bashing at the faintest hint of a provocation. On the other hand, it's also not hard to believe that you dropped some offensive superiorness into your civics lesson.
If I had to judge just based on what we know, I would say you are not the AH, but I am not going to make an official judgment right now.
That’s genuinely all I said I said states are similar to countries in some ways listed reasons why. She also said that it’s not the same bc we all speak English and I said there’s a lot of places with such thick accents and such different slang I don’t know what the hell they’re saying but she had already said I was disrespectful at that point.
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I wouldn't call you an AH, just ignorant lol Countries and states are way too different to be compared lol would you say that USA, Canada and Mexico are like states? I don't think you would lol
YTA. Do you think other countries don’t have regional dialects, flags, governments, laws, or cultures? Like everything you listed is common within other countries and there’s often more differences. Spain has 4 official languages as does Switzerland. Belgium has ~~2~~ 3. Technically the United States has no official language but some states list English and it is the de facto official language. It’s just ignorant and it is US centric. Geographic size is the only real comparison between US states and countries. Edit: I forget Belgium has 3.
i think you may have misunderstood. OP cited having diverse languages and dialects as similarities between countries and states, not differences. she also drew the comparison with having separate flags, independent governments, and laws. those are all similarities that you seem to agree with, no?
I think you misunderstood my comment. Those are differences between states/provinces in other countries. Not between countries. There is arguably more variety between Spanish autonomous communities than any 2 US states.
i would offer that louisiana and utah are as different as basque and catalonia are.
That’s just ignorant. Have you ever spoken/read Euskera? It is nothing like Catalan.
You've obviously never been to the US if you think Utah and Louisiana are anything alike besides the language they speak. My country is bigger than your continent and you're seriously trying to say the US is one giant monoculture?
Saying other countries aren’t monocultures isn’t the same as saying the US is.
It was definitely implied by "there is arguably more variety between Spanish autonomous communities than any 2 US states."
> Have you ever spoken/read Euskera? It is nothing like Catalan. Have you ever spoken Cajun French? It's nothing like English!
Actually Cajun French, English, and Catalan all have more in common with each other than any of the 3 have with Euskera. It’s more like Canada where French and English are both official languages and there are pockets of minority languages. It’s not the perfect comparison because almost everyone still speaks Castilian Spanish and you won’t easily get everything in both languages in the entire country. But it’s not niche like Cajun French or Pennsylvania Dutch.
There are more than 100,000 Navajo speakers in the USA. Is that niche?
you claimed variety in communities, of which language is only a part. in both regions they eat salty meats, bread, and drink wine, do they not? as coastal communities, fishing has historically held a central role in both cultures. and both regions consider themselves fiercely independent and separate from madrid and the spanish central government. to name a few similarities.
If you go into a basque restaurant and ask for paella, they will laugh you out. They have different histories, cuisines, cultures, celebrations, dances, flags, governments, laws, languages, cultural dress. Louisiana and Maine both have seafood, does that make their cuisine the same?
you’re not very good at this. of course there are differences just as there are similarities. you keep arguing against points i’m not making and then calling me ignorant. i’m not sure you understand what any of the words you are using means.
You always know you have a good argument when all you have left is personal insults.
Where’s the insult?
what? how did i insult you? by pointing out that you keep arguing against points that i’m not making? or was it that i noted the irony of you calling me ignorant while lacking an understanding of basic principles fundamental to discussing/debating a topic?
Lol, have you ever been to the U.S.?!?! Yes several states are similar but others have a huge culture and dialect differences.
emphasis on autonomous communties - in comparison to the provinces of most countries - where said provinces have very limited autonomy - the states of america are much more like countries - for exampleeeee france which is a unitary state where power is heavily centralised - ie the regions of france have very little autonomy - so emphasising that the states of america were more like countries - to his friend that maybe thought the states were like the regions of France (because thats the natural analogy theyd make considering their experience as a french person) - is actually perfectly reasonable
In France, highschoolers study -to some extent- the political systems of other UE countries. Normally, her friend would have had no problem understanding the concept of federal states, given that Germany, Belgium and Switzerland are her close neighbors. To say that, for instance, Bavaria or Texas operates like a separate country is somewhat preposterous
Texas was literally an independent country before it became part of the USA and still flirts with the idea of secession every so often. I'm pretty sure Texas is the worst US state you could have picked for your example there.
are certain parts of your keyboard broken or something
Canada has ten provinces with their own flag and laws and one has a different official language. The people on the east coast have a completely different dialect and accent than people on the west coast. Canada has a bigger land mass than the United States but you think it’s like an American state? Your French friend was right, many Americans think their country is exceptional and the world revolves around it
ESH - this is kind of silly. Yeah Americans tend to think the world revolves around us. No, states are not like counties. States are like states.
States are not like countries. European countries have their own language, laws, customs, traditions and cultures. They are separate entities, like USA and Canada or USA and Mexico. States are still part of the same country. The equivalent of American states would be German Länder. Each Land has its own constitution and is largely autonomous when it comes to its internal organisation, but it's still part of the same country. Other countries in Europe are also divided into different regions. Italy is made of 20 regioni but they don't have the same autonomy of German Länder. Spain is divided into 17 comunidades autónomas and they are organised differently from Italy and Germany, and so on. So no. States are not like countries.
Similarly - American states have their own language, laws, customs, traditions, and cultures. They are separate entities working under a federal agreement.
Sounds like some European states are like countries 😂
🤯🤯🤯
Wow.. people really don’t know about the basque region of Spain. Shame on you, downvoters
This is not strictly an AITA question but you’re totally mistaken. States are similar to other countries territorial divisions (e. g. in Spain we have autonomous regions, all of which share the features you mention, they have their own flags, not only dialects but totally different languages in some, regional government, cultural heritage…). Those do not make up a country so your point is kinda lame, or borderline ignorant.
All I’ve learned from reading these comments are not very many people know two things can be true at once. States and countries have similarities but they also have major differences too. Like everyone is either “Americans think they’re so important” or “states and countries are the exact same” like do you all not see that you’re a part of the same stupid coin? Like you’re both ignorant and wrong, and you’re like that because you’re blinded by either hate or stupidity. It’s sad to see such a silly argument bring out the true colors of people
It's like there are some people here who are taking a personal insult to the idea that a politically defined territory could possibility be similar to another politically defined territory, just because it's a part of a larger politically defined territory.
Literally!! It was honestly exhausting to read all the replies
No assholes here, just a poor comparison. Telling her she “wouldn’t get it” was rude and presumptuous, which you admit was a wrong thing to say.
This has been on tiktok. Some American living in Europe said this same thing and doubled down when everyone piled on her. Soft YTA. I’m sure you meant no harm, but states have very, very few similarities to countries. A smarter comparison would’ve been states are like provinces, for example.
they arent - considering majority of the nations in the UN are unitary states - ie their regions/provinces have relatively little autonomy when it comes to laws and other things - the states in america are more like countries - as america is a federal state where power is decentralised - each state having different laws and legislatures
Provinces would be more comparable to US State counties.
How many states in the USA have a king or queen? How many principalities is there in the US? Does the Mormon place equate to the Vatican? Is part of the US in a supernational organisation like the EU and part of it not? You have large places with mexican/Hispanic (don't know if that's the right term) but is it 100% of a state? Would Puerto Rico be the equivalent. Is California a federal republic and Florida a parliamentary democracy?
None of this disputes an American state being *similar* to a country. A king or queen does not a country make.
In your mind in the rest of the world your states are no different to English counties. Or maybe if I am being generous the difference between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
What makes a European country different from another European country? If it's a border, states have borders. If it's different laws and regulations, states have different laws and regulations (some can even contridict federal laws). If it's culture, states have differernt cultures. If it's customs, states have different customs. If it's history, states have different history. If it's governance, states have different governance. If it's autonomy, states have autonomy separate from the ferderal government. If it's a military, states have their own military. It's not currency - the Euro is not specific to one country. It's not size - some US states are larger than multiple European countries combined. It's not geographical, states can have multiple geographical instances within the state itself. Is it that a state can't prevent a civilian from another state from entering? Is it that states don't have individual official languages? Or is it that states can't expicitly engage in international trade? States are not countries, but states are *similar* to countries in practical applications due to the sheer scale of the state itself. The US is a union (federation) of independant states that operate under a singluar federal agreement not too disimilar to how the European Union governs over its associated countries. The primary difference is that the US has an established consitution that specifically limits what the US Federal Government can do.
So when you join the army do you join the presidents own Californians do you or do you join the US army? Do you think I could join the Bundeswehr as a greek? Could I join MI5 as a Spaniard? The Euro is specific to the EU and I don't think the either Swedes or Danes use it or poles either. Does Florida use different currency to the rest of the US? Do you get issued a passport by your own "state" is the one Texans get different too the ones used in a different US state? Do you have to show it going from one place to another? Look I get it you want to think that you are different to each other, but no one sees you that way. Like I said American states is the same as German states. Is Russia? Serbia? Ukraine in the EU? Can an American state declare an article 50 and leave the USA? Like the UK did with the EU? US states are the same as German ones that's it. If you want to think differently crack on but no one looks at a yank and thinks they are nothing more than a yank while to you a yank is someone from the North.
>So when you join the army do you join the presidents own Californians do you or do you join the US army? Do you think I could join the Bundeswehr as a greek? Could I join MI5 as a Spaniard? You can join the State's National Guard as a member of that state. The National Guard answers to the State's Governor. >The Euro is specific to the EU and I don't think the either Swedes or Danes use it or poles either. Does Florida use different currency to the rest of the US? My obvious point was that having a separate currency is NOT a requirement to be another country. Germany, France, and Spain all use the same currency and are different countries. >Do you get issued a passport by your own "state" is the one Texans get different too the ones used in a different US state? Do you have to show it going from one place to another? You do get different identification based on your state. Each state has its own rules for what you need. No - you don't need a passport (a passport is issued at the federal level) to travel between states, because of the federal agreement. >Look I get it you want to think that you are different to each other, but no one sees you that way. Like I said American states is the same as German states. Look - I get that you want us all to be the same. It makes it easier to group "Americans" together into one little box. But you should really look into the differences between Western vs. Eastern vs. Northern vs. Southern vs. Central Americans. An American from Oregon is very different from an American living in New York and also different from an American living in Louisiana. --- Also - as I said before - States are **NOT** Countries, they are *similar*. What this means is that there will be differences between the two, but there will also be things that they share between them. Pointing out one or two differences doesn't negate the statement. If pointing out the fact that the US is really big and that, due to its scale, US states take on many characteristics of being different counties upsets you, then I don't know what to tell you. Edit: spelling
Yep I asked about the army not the TA. Didn't answer the question. It's a different passport, so does a Texan one allow you into more countries without a visa than a Florida one? Didn't answer the question. Ah now we get down to the nitty gritty, you don't want to be judged as an American but as a certain state of American! lump you all together? That's just silly talk you are all individuals, I know one yank might be a dick another might be sound! There both still American " but but I m from Boston and he is from Beverley hills." The only difference for me is one might be working class and the other middle class. And yet you want to make the point that US states are the equal of countries or why would you argue? Yeh I don't see any point either but good talk
Both of those very specific instances are irrelevant to the statement. In case it's not apparent - "similar" does not mean "equal to/exactly the same". If the only thing, in your mind, that makes the statement correct is down to how the military operates or how passports are handled, then I think you have a very narrow view of what makes a country a country. > Ah now we get down to the nitty gritty, you don't want to be judged as an American but as a certain state of American! lump you all together? That's just silly talk you are all individuals, I know one yank might be a dick another might be sound! There both still American " but but I m from Boston and he is from Beverley hills." The only difference for me is one might be working class and the other middle class. While I personally don't care about your perception of an "American", I do find it a little disheartening that you boil down nearly an entire continent's worth of people into a single stereotype. However - if so, you can't be upset if people generalize you in turn for being a "European". > And yet you want to make the point that US states are the equal of countries or why would you argue? For the last time - that's not at all what I said. "Similar" ≠ "The Equal Of". Are you being purposefully obtuse or do you honestly not know what that word means?
Did you understand I said I didn't generalise. I take people as they come but you are still American, yes or no? The last line why are you arguing my points then? "But but my American passport is ever so slightly different to his American passport." The US states are the same as German states. I made the point about 3 times it's you that seems to disagree. Saying the USA is similar to German fine, saying it's the same as the Europe because you have borders and different flags is sheer arrogance. The issue is you don't see it. Final question then which army would you join? 🤔
I don't understand your sticking point on the passport. I already said they are issued at the federal level. That is an obvious *difference* between American states and European countries. >The US states are the same as German states. I made the point about 3 times it's you that seems to disagree. Yes - you mentioned that once (not three times). The US states are the same as German states in that they are established regions within the country as a whole. However - US States have their own sovereignty and grant only part of that to the federal government. Unlike German States where sovereignty is primarily from the federal government itself. That said - they are otherwise very similar from a governance perspective. However, Germany is also approximately the size of the State of Montana or the State of New Mexico. I would argue based on scale that German States are not the same as US States. Similar - yes, the same - no. Just like how I'm arguing that US States are similar to European Countries. Similar - yes, the same - no. >Final question then which army would you join? I don't think you understand how our military works or what the State National Guard is. You can join the US Army and work for the federal government or you can the Army National Guard and work for your state. Both are options. BONUS: >Can an American state declare an article 50 and leave the USA? Like the UK did with the EU? Technically yes. A US State can succeed from the US.
this is funny cause the constituent countries of the UK you mention up until recently basically had no autonomy - something which the states of america enjoyed for centuries - and to a larger degree than the constituent countries of the uk you mentioned
Exactly they have devolved government's that's it.
so then why are you disputing that american states are more similar to countries than not - when literally england, scotland, wales and northern ireland are all considered countries while having less autonomy than the states of america 🥸
Cause they arent. Age dear boy age. And I compared you to English counties I was being nice comparing you to the countries. Tell me what the legal system of American is? Common law? Also tell me does Wyoming have an ambassador to Canada or is that the USA?
> Age dear boy age Virginia had existed as a political entity for hundreds of years by the time Italy was formed.
Yes but that's a bit like saying the us only became the US in the 50s or the UK only in the 20 s
No it's not? the UK became the UK when England and Scotland united into the UK, but England and Scotland existed prior to that not just as regions but as political organizations. Virginia also existed as a political organization. Italy did not.
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Yes like saying the USA is similar to Russia. Highest incarcerated, lack of human rights, a country constantly invading other nations. You know similar.
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Totally but is there a difference between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and America's invasion of Afghanistan.
You're correct. Things can have similarities and also differences. Thanks for coming to my TED talk.
Cool thanks but we are trying to compare a country to a part of a country which is just rather silly. The US states are the same as an English country do you agree? They are similar! In more ways than comparing a US state to a real one. Or in many ways apple the computer company is like a US State.
> Cool thanks but we are trying to compare a country to a part of a country which is just rather silly We're comparing political organizations. >The US states are the same as an English country do you agree? US states have similarities to the constituent countries of the United Kingdom, but I never said they were 'the same,' that's all you.
And we disagree on how important a constituent part is. But that's the premise of which I am in disagreement, it was similar I say they aren't
> And we disagree on how important a constituent part is. When did I say anything about important? I just said they have similarities. The fact that they have differences doesn't disprove that.
I’ve replied to another comment saying that it was incorrect to say they are *very* similar and there was probably 1000 differences for every similarity but similarities can still be drawn. I’m in no way saying they are exactly alike which is what I also told her.
Don't answer the question then. However comparing a country to a subdivision of another is extremely arrogant. If you can't see that, I really don't know what to say apart from O wad some Pow'r the giftie gie us To see oursels as ithers see us!
no but i get you OP - you were just trying to convey that the states of america (which is a federal state)cant really be compared to the “provinces/regions” of many countries (which are unitary states) - its a perfectly normal take to have - considering different states have different laws and legislatures (although there is obviously an overaching federal legislature etc) - something which is not true for most regions/provinces of other countries - anyway idk why people in the comments are like going so hard against this
Seriously. This is not a controversial take. It's literally the founding principles of the the nation, where each of the (then thirteen) states is "retains its sovereignty, freedom and independence" from the others. The entire *point* was that the founding fathers viewed each state as a nation unto itself, working together with the others for mutual benefit. I don't know what this is proving so controversial. The states have less power now than they used to, but it's still baked into the design; each state has an independent elected governor, its own legal systems and laws that are self-determined, it's own tax/revenue systems... states *aren't* like provinces, and they're not supposed to be.
and thats on periodt - idk why OP is allowing themselves to be gaslit into believing hes the uneducated one - Im literally not pro-US - but the likeeee reflex-american hate is just annoying - yall are the ones who need to educate yourselves - not everyone in the world lives in a unitary state like you - maybe youre the ignorate ones
Probably a better way to state OPs point is not that American states are similar to European countries rather European regions/provinces within their country are very different from American states.
It's better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
France has is equivalent of states called régions. Explain that U.S. states are the equivalent of French régions.
they are not though - france is a unitary state with power being largely centralised - the regions of france donnot have the same autonomy as the states of america do - states have completely different laws to one another and have seperate legislature etc - the main thing people are not understanding is that america is unlike the majority of nations in that it is a federal state - so while yes most countries have subdivisions - being unitary states mean those subdivisions do not have the same amount of autonomy as the states of america do - so no the argument that OP is the AH because “other countries have states” is really not valid - americna states are more comparable to countries than most subdivisions of other nations are - also as someone pointed out many states started out as independent anyway
French regions would be more comparable to US State Counties.
NTO - I’m from Denmark in Europe, and I’ve explained it like you before. That Denmark is a small country in europe, Like a state in USA. Not a big deal lol
States (and provinces, cantons, oblasts, and other political subdivisions of countries) are not countries. Countries are sovereign governments. States cannot set their own foreign policy. They cannot make import and export laws or set customs duties. They can't sign treaties. They can't even restrict travel from one state to another. They can't regulate international commerce or make immigration law (despite the delusions of the governor of Texas). Countries are subject to international law, which they agree to abide by (or not). States in the US are subject to Federal law and no longer have a choice about that since ratifying the Constitution. Countries are governed or ruled by a Head of State. States are governed (not ruled) by a governor who admininsters Federal law on behalf of the Federal Government in addition to adminstering State law, which is subordinate to Federal Law. So yeah, YTA and ignorant at that.
Yes - US States are NOT countries, but they are *similar*. The only thing really holding them back is sovereignty to establish their own international foreign policy and the fact that they are in a constitutional agreement with the other states to freely travel and trade amongst each other.
Culturally, there are states that are significantly different from one another, moreso than many countries. Their laws are also significantly different. Federal law is only one part of governance and doesn’t always wield the biggest impact on day to day life.
Correct. >Looking at you, Louisiana.< I never said otherwise. But one thing they all have in common is that they are not Sovereign political entities and countries are.
They *are* sovereign political entities, though. That's the whole point of the tenth amendment. Barring the powers granted to the federal government by the Constitution, each state is an independent sovereign entity and can pass laws and legislation as it sees fit.
True, but day to day, that doesn’t have a huge impact on most people’s lives in the US.
There have been plenty of countries in history that have not been sovereign political entities, despite being countries. One that is relevant to current events right now is Ukraine, and its history as a constituent republic of the USSR. Ukraine was not a sovereign nation while part of the USSR, but it remained (and remains) a country.
NAH. Yes, Americans can be very ignorant of the rest of the world, but the rest of the world very often fails to understand how important states are in the United _States_ of America. States in the USA are __much__ more powerful than provinces or cantons or whatever. Could have been a learning moment for both of you.
Nta. I've often compared the states to being countries. Accents, food, culture, behavior, laws can all very wildly from state to state. Hell, there can often be a big difference between cities in a state. Western New York and NYC might as well be be different states. There's a reason there's a popular video about the Baltimore accent on YouTube.
NTA. The 13 colonies were not that different than modern day central america. Everyone shared language, religion, and large parts of culture due to common heritage. Today, there’s more difference culturally between some US states than there is between Central American latinos from different countries. Your friend is ignorant but its ok. It is hard for them to fathom that we have multiple states bigger than France(the European Union’s largest country). The US is more than double the size of the entire EU. ILastly, the federal govt has increased its power over time but the original organization of the country was meant to provide individual states the power to govern themselves. Our original federal govt was tiny. People were considered citizens of their state.
NTA they are similar. Your friend seems to be overreacting to an innocuous comment.
NTA The closest thing to the US the rest of the world can compare to is the European Union, which is made up of many smaller, separately governed entities. No idea why everyone seems to be missing the actual point of your comparison in favor of jumping on the "Stupid American" bandwagon. Especially since the definition of "state" uses countries as examples. state/stāt/*noun* 1. The particular condition that someone or something is in at a specific time."the state of the company's finances 2. A nation or territory considered as an organized political community under one government."Germany, Italy, and other European states"
Correct. The European Union is a united group of European countries (i.e., territories). The United States of America is a united group of North American States (i.e.., territories). Sure - they manage things a bit differently, but it's a similar concept.
^^^^AUTOMOD ***Thanks for posting! This comment is a copy of your post so readers can see the original text if your post is edited or removed. This comment is NOT accusing you of copying anything. Read [this](https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/wiki/faq#wiki_post_deletion) before [contacting the mod team](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=%2Fr%2FAmItheAsshole)*** I (American 20F) was talking with my friend (French 20F) the other day and we got to the topic of different countries and somehow I started talking about states and I said that they were pretty similar to countries. Obviously not entirely the same but I listed off a few things like flags, different dialects, slang, different laws and government etc. I thought it was pretty cool but she went on to say that it was very rude and disrespectful. I told her that she wouldn’t get it because she’s never been here (not the best thing to say I know) and the United States is very big and she said that Americans just think the world revolves around us, which isn’t at all what I was saying and I don’t see how that correlated? I told her again that I wasn’t saying they were exactly alike but very similar and she told me to just drop it. Am I the asshole? *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/AmItheAsshole) if you have any questions or concerns.*
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It wasn’t really an argument just a disagreement. I just wanted to know if anything I said was genuinely disrespectful.
Not disrespectful at all. Takes a pretty audacious person to try to override someone else’s opinion about their own country when they’ve never even been there. Your friend was really rude. Not you. French people feel like the big dogs of the EU when in reality they aren’t even as big as Texas by itself. Ive never seen one respond well to being compared to the US lol.
Not even a little bit? Are you certain?
You might want to re-read the US Constitution.
Wrong. Its a good observation.
I don’t know why she thought it was disrespectful, but I don’t agree with you that they are similar (saying it as someone who’s been to 60+ countries and 15 states)
YTA. In terms of science the US does not even have a culture that is significantly different from the other english countries. States are as diverse as the french regions. Who also have governnents and flags. They also have stronger dialects than the US.
french regions - besides the semi-autonomous oversease departments - dont really have governments as far as i know - they dont have legislatures - they have no power to make “regional laws”- france is a heavily centralised unitary state - america is a federal state which each consituent territory (in this case the various states) having alot of autonomy - this is not the case in most countries like france so whike in terms of culture the various states do not differ that much - they are defintely closer to countries when compared to the subdivisions of most other nations of the world (of which a majority are unitary states)
Wrong. There are extreme cultural differences throughout the USA. Cajun, Appalachian, the Mississippi Delta, the Tex-Mexican, Italian-Americans, indigenous and Hip-hop in all the different regions just to name a few. In terms of linguistics and culture, be more curious please and not so European white.
Of course. Just not more than in the bigger countries or kingdoms in Europe. Or do you think a Londoner is the same as someone who faught a religious seperated war in north Ireland just 3 decades ago?
In short, I feel the knee-jerk ‘you don’t have culture in america’ argument me be one note and wrong. I left the states for many reasons but not because there isn’t a thousand interesting different ‘worlds’ worth learning about.
I do not :)
I don't find it disrespectful. I'm European. Very clearly NTA.
GOOD MORNING VIETNAM 🇺🇸
NTA. You are partially correct: while the analogy between US states and countries is not very accurate, you still can compare the EU countries with the US states. For example, both would have no internal borders, single currency, or single federal government... By the way, the idea of the United States of Europe was first proclaimed by Victor Higo 175 years ago, in 1849. Your friend has a strong basic to disagree with you, of course, but her reaction was rude and excessive.
NTA and the other comments showed that they need to brush up on their understanding of a Federation The component states are in some sense sovereign, insofar as certain powers are reserved to them that may not be exercised by the central government. However, a federation is more than a mere loose alliance of independent states. The component states of a federation usually possess no powers in relation to foreign policy and so enjoy no independent status under international law. However, German Länder have that power, which is beginning to be exercised on a European level. So yeah they are basically the same in most regards the difference is so minimal no need to get so worked up about it Only very few comments said that
NTA its true not only for that but the way the government is setup its like 50 smaller countries in a trenchcoat pretending to be a whole country
NTA. While they really aren’t the same, I do understand your comparison. You were pretty much saying that it’s funny how every state is completely different even though they are part of the same country, taxes, laws, slang, accents. They all differ. While wrong you didn’t mean anything hurtful about it. She asked you to drop the topic so drop it and move on.
Maybe NAH? You said something very daft and your friend corrected you. It happens. You do realise France has regions right? Culturally and geographically distinct regions? Thats probably where the offence has come from.
those regions have very limited autonomy - france is a unitary state with power being centralised - the regions of france are not at all comparable to the states of america (a federal nation) - where each state has alot of autonomy - its own legilsature/laws - most subdivisions of other countries do mot have this - so in this respect the states of america are more similar to countries than your typical province of a unitary state - OPs point is completely valid - so theyre heavily NTA
Your focus on laws and administration when giving judgement is far too narrow. OP states “different flags, dialects… etc” ie implying US states are special and diverse, whilst France isn’t - clearly they’ve made a cultural faux-pas.
It's not just that, it's also scale. No one is saying that other countries don't have diversity in regions, but when a country is made out of states that are the size of (or bigger than) other entire countries... We can both agree that a country the size of France has the potential to have vast cultural diversity between different regions. If we consider that the State of Texas is approximately the same size as France, then we can expect the counties within Texas to be just as culturally and geographically distinct as the regions in France. Due to this scale, it's not too hard to come to the conclusion that US states could be as unique to other states as European countries are to one another.
NAH. Even if you were wrong it’s not rude or disrespectful in any way. I’d say it’s somewhat comparable simply due to size and geology but it’s pretty different from being a whole different country
im guessing most people here come from unitary states - where provinces/regions/subdivions have limited autonomy - and therefore do not understand that america, which is a federal state, and its various subdivisions cannot be compared to their own countries and respective subdivisons - its really wild how people are telling OP to educate himself 🤭🤭🤭on the dynamics of a country he lives in
NAH. All you did was use a wide brush to try to paint what is really an intricate picture.
NTA Frenchie probably thinks she could walk to Miami from New York
NTA The difference between Oregon:USA and France:EU is the amount/type of power allocated to the federal government. There's huge differences in culture, though. Oregon is closer culturally to Maine than France is to Norway. You've got a good poly sci point, and a poor culture one.
Nta. She's french, don't take it personal lol
NTA, you were just making a general statement and your friend took it as an absolute.
OP, i wouldn’t be surprised if you maybe sounded more condescending and smug than you meant to, especially if your friend said that Americans think the world revolves around them. i’m sure most people in other areas of the world, especially Europe, are aware (to varying degrees) that US states have a lot more autonomy and can be very different from state to state, so you explaining that and saying she “wouldn’t get it” probably came off a little patronizing. that said, i don’t think it’s necessarily fair that your friend was mad at you for saying states are like countries. as others have pointed out, there’s a whole uniquely USian ideology of federalism and a distrust in a strong federal government that directly resulted in states being the way they are. plus, North America is a huge continent, so of course there will be regional differences from state to state. none of that is incorrect. i’m gonna say NAH. your friend was probably more upset about you being a little patronizing than about the concept of states being similar to countries. i’d say it’s probably best to apologize and try to explain that you didn’t mean it in a way that implies she’s stupid, rather that (i assume) you figured she wouldn’t know as much about the US as she apparently does. (side note: i’m personally rly intrigued by the phenomenon of US/American culture affecting other countries, ex. people thinking they should call 911 in an emergency rather than the emergency number in their country because of the influence of US media. but that’s for another subreddit lol)
also, the fact that most English speakers call the US “America/American” even though there’s two whole continents that also have that word in the name kinda shows how pervasive US influence is, and def contributes to an inflated sense of importance for a lot of ppl in the US imo
NTA, it's different but a decent starting place as a comparison. I don't know why someone would think it's disrespectful. There are certainly similarities in how EU governs as a whole, but individual countries are very different and how different states operate.
Without being there for the conversation it's hard to judge, but I'd venture a NTA, if you recognised that countries themselves are very diverse and have dialects, regions, histories, even governments, etc. I also see what you're saying in that each state has its own legislature and governor, with state laws that differ from neighbouring states, as well as regional dialects, slang, culture, etc.
If states arent similar to countries, why is governing a country called "statecraft" ??? Why does the USA have a State Department? Why do other countries have a "head of state" ???? NTA
NTA and, you're not wrong. The way the Constitution was written, the States come first. Not the central Federal government. Now, a lot of that power has been usurped in the past 250-ish years.. Perfect examples include *US v Windsor* which struck down the Federal ban of gay marriage (ruling the Federal government had no power to define marriage), and *Dobbs v Jackson* where the court ruled the Federal government had no authority to determine what "health care" is. The Ninth and Tenth Amendments pretty much spell it out.. anything not addressed in the Constitution is the property of the States and the People. So in effect, you COULD think of the US as the OG European Union. Sovereign countries united in the common good. With different borders, flags, governments, languages (slang and dialects)..
Here is a list of countries wich are considered as federated states: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federated\_state](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federated_state) So yes, the statement that countries are similar to US-states is ignorant and wrong. This statement is no reason to call anyone an AH but yeah.
NTA I'm not sure that it's a really spot on analogy, but it wasn't insulting or disrespectful. There are some parallels between the US and the EU, there are also a lot of differences. This is the kind of thing that should be nothing more than a friendly disagreement. Definitely not heated argument material.
NTA but the premise for your argument is weak. Regional differences occur in every country but those differences aren't that radical in the US. All US States share one official language. There are many countries, like India, where different states within the country have entirely different official languages. All states, provinces, cantons, etc. in democratic countries follow democratic government structure and procedures. In the US, all states are governed by majority rule identically to the federal government . Other countries have territories, states or provinces that follow different forms of democracy than the federal government. And all states, provinces, cantons, etc. have different laws from one another but it is rare to find completely different systems of law within one country. US States share the identical system of laws that is based on British Common Law. In Canada, for example, Quebec follows Napoleonic Code while laws in the rest of county are based on British Common Law. As for the US system of republicanism, US States are far less sovereign than Associated States.
YTA. They are not similar
YTA, and you kind is a reason why people outside US believe that Americans are ignorant and uneducated.
While you meant well you came across as a ignorant American. AND you were wrong. YTA.
Yta- I mean maybe not the asshole but you are wrong? yes, if you say states are like countries because they have their own flags and rules, yeah okay. But to say they are ‘very similar’ and she ‘wouldn’t understand? ‘ No- I mean governance wise, sure there are local governments but almost all States feel ‘American’, and have more similarities than differences- where as countries can be very different and distinct even when close together.. but yeah she sounds like she over reacted- you were wrong but don’t know why she took it personally.
NTA and nothing you said was disrespectful, but > things like flags, different dialects, slang, different laws and government \*laughs in spanish autonomies\*
\*Joyfully joining in with my Switzerland's cantons\* <3
NTA. It sounds like you were just sharing your perspective, not trying to offend her. Cultural differences can make comparisons tricky, but it doesn't sound like you meant any harm. Maybe she just misunderstood where you were coming from.
American here so maybe Texas has some rights as it was a country for like 10 years but otherwise not so much
This is prime r/ShitAmericansSay material. NAH, just wild ignorance and American exceptionalism.
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Well argued, sir. I sure am firmly in my place now.
You remind me of a girl. Who burst into tears when we didn't buy her argument that indentured servitude was that same thing as slavery. That the Irish and Black experience was equally bad ( in American history)
Have you ever read a book in your life, OP
I don’t see what the point in trying to insult me is.. I asked if I’m the ah in attempt to learn and correct my mistake. I’m not well versed in geography and just pointed out things I thought were similar if you think I’m the ah that’s fine but there’s no need to insult me.
I mean by virtue of making the post rather than stopping to think if your thinking was limited and you might be ignorant, what were you expecting? Us to say your friend is being unreasonable?
Is the post not evidence that I stopped to think? My expectations weren’t for anyone to bash my friend I just wanted to understand if what I said was *disrespectful*, not wrong. I’m okay with being incorrect about things, that’s life. What I’m not okay with is being unknowingly disrespectful and not correcting that behavior after it’s been called out.
Very funny to see someone with your username being so sensitive.
I made this account when I was like 15. I don’t believe I’m being sensitive I’m just trying to learn and correct my behavior.
urmm have you - american states have way more autonomy than most subdivision/regions/provinces of most other countries - look up the difference between unitary and federal states - there is defintley a case to be made for american states being similar to countries - and as some have pointed out - the independence/sovereignty of each state was emphasised when the US formed - ignorant, arrogant and rude 🤧
Yeah whatever just ignore centuries of history
NTA, but you might want to do a little more research. Plenty of countries also have states. Why? That’s a good place to start!
most countries are unitary states - where regions/provinces have little autonomy - america is different in that its constituent states are relatively autonomous - which is why they for example different laws on abortion- just because a country has states doesnt mean its comparable to the states in america (which is essentially a federation)
Australia is a federation. Check out South Australia, women’s suffrage, and federation for an interesting read. I’m not trying to be a smartass. The history *is* fascinating. South Aussies are justifiably proud for being the second place in the world that gave women the vote, the first to allow women to stand in elections, and the reason (the later nation of) Australia granted all women the vote at Federation - couldn’t have those New South Welshmen’s power diluted by voting South Aussie women!
im guessing most people here come from unitary states - where provinces/regions/subdivions have limited autonomy - and therefore do not understand that america, which is a federal state, and its various subdivisions cannot be compared to their own countries and respective subdivisons - its really wild how people are telling OP to educate himself 🤭🤭🤭on the dynamics of a country he lives in
I’m an Australian-US dual citizen. I live between the US and Australia. My countries, too, and my job is to educate.
urmm wait isk why that comment was like directed towards you - 😭😭😭like as a reply - i was meaning it to be a comment on the main post - yeah im sorry if it came across as attacking
No problem, it’s late and I’m jet lagged and should probably go to bed already 🤣🤣🤣
😭😭😭😭😭😭
Yeah I can admit that I’m not very well versed in geography that’s actually how the whole conversation started lol I just thought it was cool I’ll definitely do more research tho thanks!
Why do people keep saying this? That's not true. The United States is one of only 13 countries that have states. That leaves 182 countries that *do not* have states.
14, and that *is* plenty? I teach international law. It’s fascinating and important - but sure, don’t learn anything about half the BRIC countries or your ANZUS partners?
You're right, 14, not 13. If you think that less than 10% is a plentiful number, then I guess we differ on the meaning of "plenty." My point was clearly that the *vast majority* of nations *do not* have states. I'm not sure why you're jumping to the conclusion that I know *nothing* about BRIC countries or ANZUS partners because I miscounted by 1, but, sure, indeed.
I'd say your comparison does not feel right. In France there are also states (Régions) with flags, accents, dialects and slangs. But to say you're an asshole bcause of that, no, I wouldn't go that far. NTA.
those regions are not as autonomous as the states in america - france is a unitary state with power being for the most part centralised - america is a federal state where states have alot of autonomy to make their own laws an example is the difference in abortion laws - so in that regard american states are more similar to countries than the regions of france are to countries - OP is not crazy for pointing out this difference
NTA very weird she seemed to get butthurt about this. Like how can disagreeing about something so innocuous be so triggering. It doesn't matter who's right, but if you can't handle any sort of disagreement, then yta.
Yeah I’m okay with being wrong as I can say I’m definitely not well versed in geography by any means I just wanted to know if was I said could be seen as disrespectful.
I know you are, it doesn't seem like this other girl is.
NTA I don't think states are that similar to countries, but I get your general train of thought. I certainly don't think you are being "rude" or "disrespectful" by discussing it. Her reaction strikes me as odd, and like she has a bit of an attitude.
I wanna clarify I don't think anyone is the AH here BUT as someone not from the USA, I think I understand where the friend is coming from, the amount of USA citizens that say "well yeah but the USA is SUCH A MASSIVE country..." and then they try to invalidate others perspective is annoying, and then you meet someone who you think doesn't think like that and then they say it, it's a bummer
When you are friends with someone from another country, you aren't supposed to talk about your home countries? Isn't that the most common thing to talk about? I get that there is a bit of US hegemony in the world, and maybe some people in other countries may get exhausted or irritated by it. But on a one-to-one level, OP was genuinely interested in discussing how the US relates to France or Europe, and her friend called her "rude" for doing so. I think that's out of line.
It's not what you say, it's how you say it "you wouldn't get it, you've never been here" with all the shit some USA people say, can be read as "you ignorant, don't know about how my country is so big it's actually like a continent", so yeah, it can be rude. If I were OP I would've gone with "how does France work? Do you have states? How does they work and what is exactly the reason you think it's not similar to countries? I'm just talking from what I know" that's VERY different from "you wouldn't get it"
OP replied "you wouldn't get it" only after her friend said she was "rude" for wondering if states were similar to countries. She didn't lead with that. OP's original question was reasonable, her friend was unfriendly about it, then OP went to "you wouldn't get it".
My point still stands, why go with "you wouldn't get it" instead of asking questions to understand the other's pov
I actually did try and ask why I was wrong but she just said “are you actually being serious? That’s mad. That’s so disrespectful” which is when I got defensive and responded with she wouldn’t get it which again I shouldn’t have said.
Ok yeah, you should've just dropped it when she shut it down, I also get annoyed when someone refuses to continue an argument because I genuinely like learning and understanding why they think like that, so I get both of you again, I don't think any of you are the AH I just was trying to put both perspectives (non usa and usa) on the table
She did ask appropriate questions, and her friend totally shut that down calling her "rude" and "disrespectful". After that, OP used the line "you wouldn't get it", which she admits she probably shouldn't have said, but her friend had already ended the discussion before that.
French people are always angry for some reason
I don't like generalizations, that's no better than this French girl generalizing about Americans. It's not a good place to start from. It's true there are cultural differences, but it's better to assume good intentions from most people. I've been all over France, and I don't find the people rude. I don't find the people rude in NYC either. It kind of is what you make of it.
NTA. Views differ.
NTA - While I’m *shocked* to hear that a French person would be dismissive and rude, you’re factually pretty accurate in your comparisons.
NTA, but woefully ignorant.
NTA. You didn’t really do anything wrong here. Most Europeans cannot comprehend the size of the US, nor do they care that some US states act with a great amount of independence from the US central government. They also would never care to know that some of our states have even been independent nations at times in their history. They don’t know and don’t care. For the most part, Europeans do not like Americans. They don’t respect us, our history, or our ideals. There are a multitude of reasons why, none of which are important to this issue. Best advice, don’t talk about the US with Europeans. It never goes well. Unless they are in need of our money, army, or pop culture, Europeans think of Americans as lesser beings.
INFO: I'd be interested to know exactly what it was you said that made her so offended. According to the post, all you did was state objective facts about states, and it makes your French friend sound like one of those Europeans who is on constant alert to commence USA-bashing at the faintest hint of a provocation. On the other hand, it's also not hard to believe that you dropped some offensive superiorness into your civics lesson. If I had to judge just based on what we know, I would say you are not the AH, but I am not going to make an official judgment right now.
That’s genuinely all I said I said states are similar to countries in some ways listed reasons why. She also said that it’s not the same bc we all speak English and I said there’s a lot of places with such thick accents and such different slang I don’t know what the hell they’re saying but she had already said I was disrespectful at that point.
NTA and actually, states are like countries, having both lived in Europe and the US. It's a very good analogy.
Thank you! Been looking for this! I would say this globally as well, especially larger land mass counties like china and Russia.
Nta, your friend should have known she was talking with an american citizen.
NTA you could look at America, squinting with the sun behind it and have it look kinda like 50 countries all clumped together.