The Practical Use of Nationalism, By Tylor Lang and Nick Perriello

Photo Essay Thesis

            Throughout American history the flag has been a symbol for many things.  In today’s modern capitalist United States, the flag has transitioned from just a symbol of our freedom and independence into a marketing ticket for companies to gain profit. The “marketing of America” has evolved over the years using the American flag.  The American flag’s use has become just another way for companies to profit by feeding off of the population’s nationalism- nationalism being the patriotic feelings held towards one’s country.  In the beginning the flag was used as a symbol for the sake of being a symbol. Individuals still see the flag as a symbol while many companies, organizations, etc. capitalize on that for some sort of gain. This gain can be seen as the promotion of good will towards an organization or company, or for their explicit profit. This use of the flag to promote business has led to the use of the flag in both advertisement and the selling of products.  The use of the flag has evolved and transformed from a symbol of our nation’s independence into a symbol of and for gain. Though this may be true, what could be more American than the capitalism that fuels much of it?

Fort Monroe, Va. – Our nation's flag fly's high along the walls of the nearly 180 years old fort

Fort Monroe, Va. – A house of one  of US military personnel shows  they’re “Proud to be American”

Hampton Division of Fire and Rescue, Station 9, Hampton Va. - Ladder 9 shows the flag on its grill, becoming a part of the landscape wherever it rides

Phoebus, Va. – A sign stands on the entrance to the town from the interstate proclaiming its patriotism

Laskin Church, Virginia Beach, Va. – The church flies 6,700 flags in its lawn for over a week during Memorial Day

“Beach Street, USA” Virginia Beach, Va. – These and many like it fly all along the street along the coast

Phoebus, Va. – The Disabled American Veterans Thrift Stores  solicits donations  next to a gas station dumpster

Virginia Beach, Va. – The Days Inn street sign switches between the American Flag and the current deals for rooms

Phoebus, Va.  - The “American Theatre” states in words and color schemes that it is “American”

Newport News, Va.  - A credit union found along Warwick faces to the road hoping to attract business through its sign

Newport News, Va. – A pizza restaurant vies for new customers through its logo, among other businesses on the strip

Virginia Beach, Va. – Many of the elements of this park hold a red, white, and blue color scheme

Virginia Beach, Va. – Mugs, among other things, provide the perfect cup for coffee and boost for Norfolk

Virginia Beach, Va. – A towel hangs down from the ceiling of a beachfront store, advertising there are others like it to be sold

Virginia Beach, Va. – Found in a beach convenient store this Budweiser box, as with the bottles inside, are sporting the stars and stripes