The United States in 2025 faces deep internal strife marked by political hostility and racial tensions. The nation’s leadership openly embraces divisive rhetoric. This has intensified fears of social unrest and a possible race war. The turmoil affects not only Americans but also global partners like India. The US remains a global economic giant but struggles with unity and harmony at home.
Political Hostility and Leadership
The US President openly declared hatred for political opponents. This unprecedented honesty reveals a leadership style based on division rather than reconciliation. Such rhetoric fuels polarisation and undermines democratic norms. It threatens social cohesion in a country already struggling with internal conflicts.
Racial Tensions and Historical Context
Racial discord in the US has deep roots. The legacy of slavery, segregation, and civil rights struggles still impacts society. Recent years have seen a resurgence of racial prejudice and exclusionary nationalism. The rise of movements advocating for a white Christian America ignores the country’s immigrant and indigenous heritage.
Gun Culture and Violence Risk
The US has more guns than people, with over 400 million firearms in civilian hands. The political system resists effective gun control. This easy access to weapons raises the risk of violence and civil conflict. Combined with racial and political tensions, it creates a volatile environment.
Impact on Globalisation and India
America’s internal chaos disrupts global economic and political networks. India is closely linked to the US through trade, technology, and diaspora connections. The charged atmosphere in the US threatens the wellbeing of its five million people of Indian origin. It also risks destabilising international cooperation.
Immigration and Economic Nationalism
Anti-immigrant sentiments have grown, especially targeting non-white foreigners. Policies and rhetoric aim to prioritise native-born citizens, often defined narrowly as white Christians. This undermines the contributions of immigrants to the US economy and society. It also fuels xenophobia and economic protectionism.
Potential for Civil and Race War
The combination of political hatred, racial animosity, and widespread gun ownership creates a risk of large-scale conflict. Experts warn of a scenario akin to a recent-clashes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">civil war. The country’s inability to address these issues effectively endangers its future stability and global standing.
Changing Global Perception
The US is losing its image as a liberal beacon of freedom and equality. Its internal divisions and exclusionary politics alienate many worldwide. While still powerful, America’s goodwill and moral leadership have diminished. This shift has broad implications for international relations.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of political polarisation on democratic institutions with suitable examples from recent global events.
- What are the causes and consequences of racial tensions in multicultural societies? Explain with reference to the United States and India.
- Examine the role of gun control in maintaining internal security. How does the availability of firearms affect social stability?
- Discuss the effects of rising economic nationalism on globalisation and international trade. What are the challenges and opportunities for emerging economies?
