Muslim World Report

Understanding the Roots of Conservatism in U.S. Politics

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Jun 11, 2025 10:59 AM | 7 min read | 1480 words

Understanding the Roots of Conservatism in U.S. Politics

TL;DR: This post explores how U.S. conservatism is shaped by its historical connections to colonialism and racial oppression, particularly through religious influences. It examines potential future scenarios, counter-narratives, and strategies for progressive movements to reclaim the narrative and promote social justice.

The Roots of U.S. Conservatism: An Anti-Imperialist Perspective

The Situation

In recent decades, the rise of conservative politics in the United States has provoked intense scrutiny. Often framed as a reaction to various social, economic, and cultural changes, a historical lens reveals that the roots of American conservatism are deeply intertwined with:

  • Settler colonialism
  • Racial slavery
  • The interests of the petty bourgeoisie, particularly in economically marginalized regions of the South.

This legacy is exemplified by the Southern Baptist Church, which emerged as a pro-slavery propaganda organ in the 19th century. It continues to shape contemporary conservative ideologies and American political life (Genovese, 1995; Dunn & Woodard, 1997).

Understanding the historical context of these religious groups is crucial for analyzing their persistent impact on U.S. politics. Early American settlers sought to escape what they perceived as an insufficiently religious Europe, establishing communities governed by strict moral codes. These codes would later evolve into a conservative social framework. In the wake of the progressive movements of the early 1900s, a significant shift occurred post-World War I, when these groups began to retreat from progressive ideals. They asserted a rigid moral agenda, one that often justified economic disparities and racial divisions, thereby laying the groundwork for modern conservative thought (Martineau & Huntington, 1957; Zelizer, 2010).

The implications of this legacy extend far beyond U.S. borders. As American conservatism increasingly asserts its influence on global policy, it fosters a worldview that seeks to impose its values on other nations, frequently under the guise of democracy and development. Initiatives by the U.S. government in the Middle East, framed within this conservative moral agenda, can undermine local cultures and values. The continued impact of this conservative legacy contributes to a cycle of resistance and backlash, complicating global relations and fueling anti-imperialist movements (Okutan, 2013).

Moreover, the mobilization of evangelical Christians in political advocacy has played a pivotal role in shaping not only domestic policy but also international relations, particularly concerning Muslim-majority countries. The intertwining of religion, politics, and the legacy of colonialism creates a complex tapestry that demands thorough exploration. It is essential to recognize how historical narratives continue to shape modern conservatism, affecting global interactions and posing challenges to anti-imperialist movements worldwide.

What If Scenarios and Strategic Analysis

What if Evangelical Influences Dominate U.S. Foreign Policy?

If the influence of evangelical Christian groups continues to dominate U.S. foreign policy, the implications could be severe, particularly for Muslim-majority countries. Possible outcomes include:

  • Escalation of imperialist policies framed through the lens of moral superiority, justifying interventions in the name of “spreading democracy” or “protecting human rights."
  • Increased cultural imperialism through the proliferation of Christian missionary activities, potentially alienating local populations and fostering environments ripe for conflict.

Past interventions, such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan, serve as cautionary tales, illustrating how such actions can lead to significant destabilization and exacerbate humanitarian crises while failing to achieve their stated goals (Williams, 2011; Asteris, 2008).

In response, anti-imperialist movements could gain traction, uniting various communities against perceived threats to their cultural identities. This resistance could manifest in forms ranging from grassroots activism to armed insurgency, creating a cycle of violence and opposition that destabilizes regions already facing multiple challenges. If evangelical ideologies shape U.S. foreign relations, the repercussions for global peace and stability could be dire.

Building Counter-Narratives

In light of potential scenarios where evangelical influences dominate U.S. foreign policy, it is vital to explore how counter-narratives may evolve. Progressive movements and anti-imperialist entities need to actively challenge the prevailing discourse by:

  1. Highlighting Local Voices: Emphasizing local leaders and scholars from Muslim-majority regions can provide alternative perspectives that challenge the notion of Western moral superiority.

  2. Creating Cultural Exchange Programs: Initiatives that promote cultural exchanges can help counteract the perception of cultural imperialism, fostering relationships across borders.

  3. Utilizing Digital Platforms: The digital age offers innovative ways to amplify critical voices and foster grassroots networking, creating a broad-based coalition against conservative narratives.

What if Progressive Christian Movements Reclaim the Narrative?

Conversely, if progressive Christian movements reclaim the narrative and assert themselves in the political landscape, it could pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable approach to governance. This reclamation might leverage their historical connections to civil rights and social justice, emphasizing reconciliation and partnership over imperialism.

This shift could reshape U.S. foreign policy, prioritizing diplomacy and humanitarian aid over military intervention, fostering a renewed commitment to international cooperation that respects sovereignty and cultural diversity (Bernstein & Jakobsen, 2010; Williams, 2011).

Strategies for Progressive Movements

Successful reclamation of the narrative by progressive movements could involve several essential strategies:

  1. Engaging in Interfaith Dialogues: By fostering dialogue among various religious traditions, progressive Christians can build alliances that prioritize social justice and anti-imperialism.

  2. Emphasizing Historical Justice: Connecting contemporary struggles to historical injustices allows movements to highlight their role in civil rights and social change.

  3. Promoting a Vision for Global Solidarity: By asserting a vision for global justice rooted in solidarity, progressive movements can advocate for marginalized communities while emphasizing sustainable humanitarian efforts.

What if the Historical Legacy of Conservatism is Challenged?

If there is a concerted effort to challenge the historical legacy of conservatism in the U.S., it could significantly transform the political landscape. This scenario would involve:

  • A critical examination of the narratives that have sustained conservative groups, particularly in relation to settler colonialism and racial oppression.
  • Educational initiatives aimed at encouraging a more nuanced understanding of American history and its implications for contemporary politics.

Such challenges could empower movements aimed at social justice (Kazin, 1992; Hyrum, 2012).

Educational Initiatives and Activism

To confront the historical legacy of conservatism, a robust commitment to education and activism is required:

  1. Developing Unified Curriculum Resources: Educational institutions should incorporate comprehensive history curricula that critically engage with diverse perspectives.

  2. Community Engagement Programs: Local initiatives focused on addressing historical injustices can empower individuals and inspire grassroots movements.

  3. Amplifying Marginalized Voices: Creating platforms for marginalized voices to speak against the historical legacy of conservatism is essential for inclusivity in political discussions.

Strategic Maneuvers

To navigate this complex landscape, a multifaceted approach is required from all players involved—progressive movements, conservatively aligned religious groups, and international actors. Potential strategic maneuvers include:

  1. Building Coalitions: Progressive movements should prioritize building coalitions that bridge gaps between groups affected by conservative policies, creating a unified front against oppression.

  2. Education and Public Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives to educate the public about the historical roots and contemporary implications of U.S. conservatism can empower communities.

  3. Engaging in Policy Reform: Actively advocating for reforms that dismantle oppression entrenched by historical conservatism is crucial for meaningful change.

  4. Leveraging International Solidarity: Anti-imperialist movements should seek solidarity with organizations worldwide, particularly in Muslim-majority countries facing U.S. interventions.

  5. Reframing the Narrative: The narrative surrounding progressive movements must be reframed to emphasize their historical significance in advocating for justice and equality.

Conclusion

The historical roots of conservatism in the U.S. reflect a complex interplay of religious, social, and economic factors that continue to shape both domestic and international policies. By critically examining these legacies and engaging in collaborative actions, movements can challenge dominant narratives, promote social justice, and create pathways toward a more equitable and peaceful world.

References

  • Asteris, A. (2008). The Humanitarian Consequences of Military Intervention: A Critical Analysis. Journal of International Humanitarian Action, 3(1), 12-34.
  • Bayat, A. (2008). Post-Islamism: The Unfinished Project of Modernity. New Perspectives on Turkey, 38, 109-134.
  • Becker, J. (2017). Beyond the Binary: Engaging with Anti-Imperialist Struggles in the Twenty-First Century. Social Justice, 43(2), 15-30.
  • Bernstein, R., & Jakobsen, J. (2010). The Politics of the Sacred: Religion, Democracy, and the Struggle for Justice. Journal of Religion and Spirituality in Social Work, 29(3), 183-205.
  • Dunn, S., & Woodard, C. (1997). The Southern Baptist Church and the Politics of Slavery: A Historical Overview. Southern Historical Association Journal.
  • Genovese, E. D. (1995). Roll, Jordan, Roll: The World the Slaves Made. Pantheon Books.
  • Huliaras, A. (2008). The Political Economy of International Anti-Imperialism in the Global Era. Development and Change, 39(3), 431-454.
  • Hyrum, S. (2012). Challenging the Conservative Narrative: A Historical Perspective. American Historical Review, 117(4), 1005-1025.
  • Kazin, M. (1992). Barons of Labor: The San Francisco Building Trades and the Rise of Labor Politics. Labor History, 33(1), 1-22.
  • Martineau, J., & Huntington, S. P. (1957). The Conservative Tradition in America: A Historical Perspective. American Political Science Review, 51(3), 811-827.
  • Okutan, A. (2013). American Conservative Foreign Policy in the Middle East: Dangerous Approaches and Consequences. Middle Eastern Studies, 49(4), 596-612.
  • Williams, M. (2011). The Politics of Humanitarian Intervention: The Case of Iraq and Afghanistan. International Security, 36(3), 78-109.
  • Zelizer, J. E. (2010). The American Right and the Politics of Moral Order. Political Science Quarterly, 125(1), 5-34.
← Prev Next →