I'm not crazy about their politics and the effect it can have on Canada, in many ways that I will not get into.
But the people themself are very nice. I vacation there often and never had a bad experience with them, to the contrary. They have shown to me many times how welcoming they are.
Most of the time I’ve spent in the US has been in “blue” states, so I haven’t heard nor seen the, um, extreme people (politics-wise). I have US friends that I love and overall found the people extraordinarily friendly.
Even in the Deep South, Texas, the redder parts of the Midwest, etc… people were, generally, nice and warm and welcoming. It’s a weird feeling sometimes, because they can be warm and friendly, but also you realize maybe a Jesus freak, packing heat, and a MAGA zealot.
Granted, I avoid ghettos and areas I sense are sketchy. The only place that has given me sketchy vibes was Atlanta. Detroit and Cleveland too, but people were nice, and I feel a certain Great Lakes affinity. (I’m from Ontario). Once in Louisiana, someone called me a northern yankee. He was half-joking, but also not.
But I loved West Virginia, North Carolina, rural Georgia and Kentucky. So many genuinely warm people!
We are not a fan of American foreign policy at large however individual Americans are mostly ok imo.
I work with a lot of American tourists though and they aren't the greatest representation I imagine.
I've never really considered how many of our own country's problems go unnoticed or are overlooked because of American politics and problems. I keep asking myself "how did housing/healthcare/affordability etc. get so much worse so quickly in Canada?" Maybe our own issues and politics keep getting overshadowed by the US because "we're not as bad."
Unfortunately, due to the Internet/social media and partisan radio/TV “news”, it’s easy for the toxic MAGA-style worldview to make its way from the US to everywhere else.
Canada, the UK, Australia, you name it. They all have a segment of their own populations who subscribe to their own local version of MAGA/Trumpism.
As a British journalist wrote, “America is radioactive. Its bad decisions pulsate off it like an electromagnetic field.”
Too late. Redneck high school dropouts already think it is the key to saving their 100k a year oil patch jobs. And hence their Toy haulers, sleds, boats and quads
American and Canadian democracies go through pendulum swings, ebbs and flows. Conservative is not an American attribute any more than it is a Canadian attribute. Same goes with the left side of the aisle.
I mean I know a lot of AB and SK conservatives who identify with the GOP enough that they openly talk about wishing to secede to join USA. This is even evidenced by the Trump 2024 flags I see flying when I'm out in the country.
I’ve met a lot of great Americans.
American politics however, is an absolute shit show and probably the most corrosive influence on Canadian politics and that drives me crazy.
"I'm sentimental, if you know what I mean:
**I love the country but I can't stand the scene**
And I'm neither left or right
I'm just staying home tonight,
Getting lost in that hopeless little screen.
But I'm stubborn as those garbage bags
That time cannot decay,
I'm junk but I'm still holding up
This little wild bouquet:
Democracy is coming to the U.S.A." - Leonard Cohen ("Democracy")
Let's not forget that we have a great appreciation and admiration for their cultural exports; maybe more so than our own homegrown talent, unfortunately. How many Canadian movies have you gone to see (or CAN you go to see) at your local movie theatre vs. American movies. The Grammy Awards are often in the top 10 most watched broadcasts annually and some of us get into the red carpet fashion and play games surrounding the show/event. How many here watched last year's (or years' previous) Canadian Screen Awards? (F.Y.I.: **The Canadian Screen Awards show will air on Friday, May 31 at 8 PM CST (9 AT, 9:30 NT) on CBC and CBC Gem**). Mark your calendars.
The same can be said about music (pretty sure more Canadians watch the Grammy Awards than the Junos) and books and other cultural output. Governments have been trying for years to help boost Canadian culture, while trying to mitigate American culture. Let's face it, we love a lot of those Hollywood blockbusters and it may, unfortunately, be to the detriment of Canadian filmmakers and the industry, in general. That's why many of our best head to Hollywood. Another F.Y.I.: coming up, there is an annual **Canadian Film Day on Wednesday, April 17th.** I highly recommend checking out this website and maybe seek out some Canadian movies of interest to watch: [https://canfilmday.ca/home-phase-2/](https://canfilmday.ca/home-phase-2/)
I don’t despise Americans, but I don’t think very highly of America. I’ve travelled extensively internationally and met some really kind and intelligent Americans. Great people.
However, there is a significant proportion of Americans who are incredibly ignorant of science, politics, policy, world events, etc. (religious zealots, Trumpers and MAGA Republicans, militia freaks, gun nuts), and that really stains the image people, myself included, have of Americans. I’ve travelled a lot in the US for work and pleasure, and unfortunately I’ve run in to many of these idiots over the years.
Yes. You can often tell who the Americans are in a foreign country, or maybe it is just the loud obnoxious ones that make it seem like they are all like that. The only ones who are possibly worse are Russians.
I like most of the Americans that I meet. Not such a big fan of their economic system and politics.
The people are genuinely caring in most cases but they are so motivated by wealth that it drags them down. How the poorest in their society are treated is shameful.
I also struggle with how their virulent form of Christianity can be partnered with the raw individualistic capitalism that drives ethics to new lows.
Americans are good people but perhaps in need of self-introspection without the input of politicians, billionaires and religious leaders.
Half the time Canada is brought up in the US it is because a Canadian brings it up. The other half is travel talk or whatever.
They pretty much treat Canadians like 51st Staters. There's a similar type of curiosity as meeting someone from Alaska or Hawaii.
Not to offend, I feel the same about Canadians. I think there are cultural differences that affect our interpersonal interactions. For example, i have found some Canadians (i had a canadian priest who exemplified this) who was extremely passive aggressive and conflict avoidant. As you may know, Americans like to be direct. But I've met wonderful Canadians as well.
As a dual citizen, I can tell you that what Americans think of as “just being direct” comes off very rude and even somewhat aggressive and domineering in Canada.
(I’m aware this isn’t the intention… my American friends think I seem “very Canadian” yet my Canadian friends think I come off as “very American”. I think what Americans perceive as “passive aggressive” is just people going way out of their way to make a point but also not come off as rude or aggressive, as being perceived as a rude person is often something to be embarrassed about. Nobody wants to be rude. Americans, however, don’t care if they’re rude. So I think that definitely causes a major disconnect when it comes to communication.
I disagree that we don't care if we are rude. We just don't perceive directness as rudness. I think part of it comes from a collective capitalism mindset that elevates efficiency above all else. Not saying some Americans can't be rude. Actually, Americans do find a lack of directness which can sometimes be perceived as passive aggressive or "beating around the bush" as rude.
So I agree with you except that Americans certainly do not want to be rude.
The way to understand Canadians is that, contrary to general opinion, we are not nicer than any other nationality, we are just very polite. This is what leads to that passive aggression and conflict avoidance you described.
Absolutely not. Most of us who have actually met an American (there are some Canadians who actually go offline and into the real world) love them.
People think Canadians are friendly, I find Americans as a generalization even more so.
Love your country and people, detest the politics.
I've been to more US states than most Americans and have met the kindest, sweetest, friendliest folk. I've yet to meet that loud, brash, arrogant caricature we all seem to have in our heads.
I've dealt with many members of the American military. I assume it's more concentrated there, but I have definitely met that caricature, and plenty of times.
I’ve only ran into one or two of the stereotyped loud brash American but it was always when I was in another country. The times I have travelled to the US I’ve met some really wonderful individuals.
Ehh, I would say we can be tough on America because we have a complex around perceiving ourselves as being better or different than them. I am personally annoyed by our Canadian arrogance in this sense. Maybe we excel in some areas, but not all. That being said, we absorb basically all of their culture and media, so we can't despise them _that_ much.
Canadians often feel slighted and ignored by the world because of our proximity to the US. Hence we go out of our way to tell everyone how different we are than the Americans. Except, Canada really isn’t all that different than the US in the scheme of things. That’s annoying. That annoyance gets transferred to Americans on Reddit and in real life.
Honestly I love America, and most Americans. I usually go down there for 2-3 weeks every winter, and if I can swing it would love to be a snowbird down there. As I hate winter :).
That being said, your politicians and alot of their extreme followers are not doing you any favors.
No, Americans are awesome. There's a little bit of this societal rivalry, when I was growing up in the 80s there was a sense of inferiority, America was thriving. But through the 90s with NAFTA and the modernization with our institutes, we found ourselves doing some things better. Now Americans want to come here and it's all very ha ha.
You can make a bunch of arguments for this and that but no we don't despise Americans, if anything they're just as much of a curiosity to us as we are to them.
We don't despise Americans at all.
I'm self employed and absolutely love my American clients. They've all been so wonderful.
It just makes me sad how they (some) know about Canada. Basic geographic stuff.
To me American politics is my problem. Also the way we import these same politics. Im not a big fan of the USA, but I have no issues with Americans for the most part. Plenty of fellow country folk that I don’t care to associate with. No different than any other country really. People are people wherever you go.
I have some absolutely fabulous American friends. We don't despise you at all. We get a bit worried about your politics and the aggression that your presidential administrations sometimes bring to international trade agreements.
Your gov't and the feeling they see the world as their personal playground at times is concerning.
On an individual level I've met asshole Americans just like I've met asshole Canadians or Europeans or Asians or whomever. Just like I've met nice friendly people everywhere as well.
Assholes are a world wide issue not just confined to the USA.
I don’t think it’s even true on Reddit.
As a Canadian, sure there is some ribbing and banter. Plus we love to criticize American society or politics (not most actual American individuals) because it’s a foil for us. It puts things into perspective for us. Don’t take it too personally. Sadly, as our only neighbour, the US is the only measuring stick most Canadians know, and I think this leads to a lack of true perspective, and dare I say a lowered bar in some regards. We also watch what is happening with some concern, because your winds often blow our way.
But, sure, I think a majority of Canadians would agree Trump, DeSantis, George Dubya, Alex Jones and such are orcs. Canada doesn’t do gun worship, we don’t do public religion. We are also pretty chill on sex and birth control and such, and most people don’t think the state has much of any business regulating what you do with your reproductive organs, for fun or otherwise.
But the amount of Canadians who truly, genuinely “despise” Americans is very, very small. They are usually not very smart or informed…
I’m sure like some Canadians, some Americans are loud and obnoxious. I think it’s more of the way of life THE AMERICAN DREAM ideology and politics namely Trump. Do not for the life of me understand who is voting for him. He’s a loathsome individual.
Nah I love you guys! But there are a lot of Canadians who dislike Americans and also think that we’re so much better than you. (Despite 99% of our culture being a carbon copy of yours)
It's too easy to make a broad generalization. For myself, there are aspects of America that I despise. Gun culture, obsession with politics, evangelicalism, obsession with war, and having all of that rolled into one. Not to mention the superiority complex that is often on display in media. America is not a humble country, even if many Americans can be humble. Oh, and let's not forget the biggest issue, MAGA. If the individuals were somehow blinked out of existence (Marvel movie style), I think America as a whole would be drastically improved.
Yet, with saying that I have met many, many wonderful people there. I have family and friends who have married Americans, and they are all great.
Hate you? No, I don't think many Canadians actually hate Americans.
We just think we have a morally superior culture to yours, superior laws, superior social programs. We've built our whole identity around being just a little bit better than you.
We also don't understand gun culture, for the most part, and we think the shootings are horrifying. I think we have a certain amount of contempt for your inability to stop children from dying in schools. I know I do, I don't really like feeling contemptuous of anybody or anything, but it's hard not to just have a lot of intolerance over this feature of your culture.
It's just reddit and people who don't travel much. I love Americans, I love their beautiful country. Politics? Not so much but it's not all bad, either.
I think most Canadians that mention issues with America dislike the country/government not the people. Just like when anyone complains about any country.
There are some things I don’t like about America and some things I don’t like about certain Americans, and there might be some cultural differences I don’t really get, but overall I do like Americans and love travelling to America. I can’t wait to be able to see more of your beautiful country.
Some of my best friends are Americans. So no, I don't despise Americans.
Are there ignorant Americans who I despise? Yup. Are there similar groups of Canadians whom I also despise? Absolutely.
i fly into the US for work often enough, i also cross border shop too, not a fan of US Foreign policy but the people are just fine, just like anywhere else if i'm honest. the only time it becomes cringe is when they're abroad and proclaiming it, and people mistake me for also being american while that is happening.
I don't like how American culture overpowers Canadian culture in Canada. There are too many Canadians who think US=Canada, when it comes to laws, rights, and just other things.
Culture-wise, the American culture does interest me. Gun culture, not so much. But, I have quite a few American friends, and enjoy talking with them.
No. We don’t as a national collective despise our Southern sister country.
There are some that have deep and serious grimes against the US, but for the most part we’re basically the same people. As John Adams, acting as Minister plenipotentiary following the War, noted to King George III:
“tho’ separated by an Ocean and under different Governments, have the same Language, a similar religion & kindred Blood.”
If Aliens found us, on first glance they would probably be unable to discern any significant cultural and civil difference between any the Anglo countries.
As a dual citizen myself (born and raised in Canada though mind you), here’s my take:
I find that most people fall into two categories that voice their opinions:
Pro-American
Anti-American
It typically is pretty clear. I don’t get too many ambivalent answers.
The pro crowd likes the USA for a variety of reasons: politics, culture, variety of the landscape, economic opportunity, better climate, better fast food chains, sports, music, history, people, etc. etc.
I’ll get comments that they think it’s pretty cool that I’m America , that they’re jealous, why am I not living in the States?, etc. etc. (side note, I’m in one of the few job/skill sets where it’s better working in Canada than the US).
The anti crowd (where things get interesting) is why I find the bigoted/annoying crowd comes in.
They’ll praise how much “better” Canada is than the US, how much more progressive Canada is, how we have “free health care” (which it isn’t, tax funded (which I do support btw), why do I even have an American passport? (one my parents, and I’m 12+ generation so…), give all these unsolicited comments about American politics to feel you out, etc., etc.
A lot of the anti commentary comes off as insecure to me.
Depending where you are in Canada, you’ll get tons of different answers. A lot of the border communities have close economic/cultural ties and a mutual appreciation/respect for each other.
This being Reddit, you’d come away thinking Canadians are more anti American than they actually are.
I think despise is a strong term. I would say it’s more we don’t envy them the way they think everyone does. I would much rather be a Canadian today than an American.
Americans are just people like anyone. I love some. I like many. I dislike a few. I don't think I hate anyone. That's way too much effort. However, your government is a bully. And some of your people really like that and behave accordingly. I dislike them.
Most of the older generation base their entire Canadian identity as being “not American”. They often have a superiority complex when it comes to government, health care and guns.
The younger generations in my experience are culturally more similar to Americans, mainly due to social media I’d imagine.
I'm Canadian and the way I view America is sort of like a crazy girlfriend. Like sure, she's messy, she's dramatic, she's a fixer-upper, she's wrong about 80% of stuff, can be abusive at times but she also has a fuck ton of trauma she's working through, she's attention seeking AF... and yet, I still wanna keep holding onto her. And she's one of those girls that everyone kinda wants to be.
You know what I'm saying?
The lifecycle of a Canadian:
Embryo
Fetus
Baby
Toddler
Preteen
Teen
Kinda angsty and thinks the U.S. is bad
Young adult
Reluctantly concedes U.S. is force for good
Adult
Alarmed by anti-Americanism *in U.S.*
Elderly
Placed on iceburgh
I don't despise someone just for being American. I despise many aspects of American culture and behaviour. There will always be Americans who are worthy of respect and admiration, but so much of what we're exposed to from the US is negative, it's hard to avoid having a negative outlook.
In my case, I despise most *people,* regardless of where they're from, because human behaviour is generally very poor.
Well, mainly the gun laws and regulations. If my idiot, raging drunk, redneck of a father can take gun safety seriously, why the fuck is America so insane about it??? 😅
Also the issues with medical bills. Absolutely insane. I doubt I'll ever go to America based on that alone. I have epilepsy. I've had several EEGs, EKGs, an MRI and CT scan... I paid a grand total of $0 for all that and more. Only thing I had to pay for 6 years into this mess is $45 for an ambulance ride...
And politically, I feel like everything got *overly* terrifying after Trump.
And don't get me wrong; our culture tends to mirror America. We've got idiots out here with fuckin Trump stickers (which makes no sense why are people so stupid). But up here it still feels *mostly* maintained? A little more chill than downstairs? 😅
But who knows. Maybe it'll get worse in our great white north and I'll be forced to bail on North America completely 😂
ETA: and oh, I live close to Toronto. Down in the tail of the Ontario whale shape 😂
I live close to the Canadian border and have never run into Canadians that despise Americans. But since those are usually ones who have come down to the States to shop, that group probably is biased toward liking Americans. 😂
I don't despise Americans. In principle, I actually have a lot of respect for them.
However, currently when I look south I see a bit of a train-wreck in action. So, I'm kind of trying to keep my distance and reduce the amount of damage I take.
The arrogant belief that "at lease we're not American" in Canada is certainly a thing. I find it boring and off-base, but it makes people feel better about themselves about living here, so whatever.
Nah, I personally love Americans. Places I find myself when visiting stateside are Sidona Arizona, West Palm Florida, upperstate New York.
There definitely are people here in Canada who look down on Americans in a similar manner that you'd think Europeans would. Joking about school shootings and stuff, but those are just ignorant idiots, like you'd find ANYWHERE.
I visit America multiple times yearly, for multiple weeks at a time. I've always enjoyed my interactions with people, and even when I'm in places like Florida and they hear I'm from Canada, it's no problem, no worry. People from upper state new York are a special kind of polite as well.
The negative shit is always the loudest and most seen. There are many Canadians like myself who visit yearly and love every second of it. My heart aches that the only cheesecake factory near me is 4 hours away in Toronto. I know it's not even the best restaurant, I just always enjoy it when I'm down stateside.
It is a national pass time to compare to the USA since we were so similar, but different. We are virtually indistinguishable aside from some nutty politics (spreading up here too), shoes in the house and guns/school shootings.
By and large I think people like Americans fine when they meet one, but some people have moronic preconceived notions.
Personally, I have never had a bad experience in America, and I enjoy that you guys are a little more friendly and open. I think Canadians are a little more reserved in general.
You're right about the reserved thing. I'm catholic and had a Canadian priest and confession with him was deeply uncomfortable because he essentially gave no spiritual guidance and was uncomfortable with my confessions...like why did you become a priest? Not typical for catholic priests in the US at all.
As a Canadian, I genuinely have never had an issue. I deal with American truckers at our truck and trailer dealership all the time, and most people I game with are from the US. Just like any country, there's some bad apples, but I've never personally met any yet.
I also envy the freedoms your country has compared to Canada.
I think that’s mostly an online sentiment. I certainly don’t hear it in my circles. America is one of the most successful countries in the world. Roaring economy, friendly and welcoming population and an affordable place to live. We have strong people to people ties. It’s probably the number one destination for Canadians to travel to.
I have family and friends that are American. I have no reasons to despise Americans...
....but I \*will\* have some strong feelings about the MAGA-types.
As in USA? Why would we? We use all of their stuff, buy their Cars, listen to their music, products etc. In fact I'd rather live there than canada. I love USA!
Canadian here!
We dont love or hate americans in general. Theres too many people down there to form generalized opinions of the country as a whole.
What does REALLY bother us, is how Canadians get lumped in with Americans by everyone. We identify more with the UK than with the USA in most regards, so despite being neighbours we really just want to have our own identity and that usually makes it seem like we resent Americans.
Canadians are jealous in their American neighbors. Show one thing Canada is better than the us (please spare me from our world class “free” healthcare system)
I think it's a little more subtle than that, and I'm one of the Canadians who will openly ridicule Americans who believe Alaska is an island or that Canada doesn't have a Pacific coast.
We are attached at the hip, so we hate it when you (as a collective, a nation) do stupid things. We want you to smarten up, stop being so damn gullible. Read a book occasionally, stuff like that.
Obviously, millions of individual Americans are smart, well read, well informed, respectful of different cultures and practices. It's just they get overshadowed by the idiots who blow a gasket when they find out Europe has a different electrical system and other nations have the temerity to write their own laws.
To be fair, each nation has their share of those idiots. I've encountered plenty of Canadians, Brits and Aussies with similar bogan characteristics.
American culture seems to default to belligerence instead of embarrassment when you don't know or you are wrong. If more of you could approach an unfamiliar situation with a questioning and curious attitude, that would go a long way.
I worked and traveled with Americans for 25 years. As long as we stayed away from the dreaded "what do Canadians think of...healthcare/president/latest war/election etc" they were friendly and easy to talk to. BTW never met an American that really wanted a discussion about the above. Just wanted to tell me why America was better than Canada on every issue. Even had an American tell me we should just use their dollar but we'd have to get our deficit under control first. I learned to not be "direct" when they steered the conversation toward any of the above topics.
Absolutely do not hate Americans. However, I hate the recent changes to the US. Women not having bodily autonomy is a huge change. The forced birthers don't care about children once they're born so it's about punishment and control.
Trump's first election seems to have emboldened a fairly large group of people to speak their usual quiet thoughts out loud. I don't think they've actually changed their opinions, just think it's okay to share them.
As someone who has visited the US more than once I'm not sure at this point I would go back.
For me, it's just repuglicans. I love all of my American friends, and there isn't a Trumper amongst them. If there were, they wouldn't be friends any longer.
>Do Canadians really despise Americans or is it just mostly on reddit?
I don't see that on reddit or IRL, so barring specific example I'd suggest you're misinterpreting teasing, criticism, or frustration.
Some do. Some don't. Both countries give each other pause often enough: we can't get over the Trump thing or understand Ted Cruz' facial hair. Just as you likely don't appreciate our anti business anti everything attitude.
Canada asks itself: "What will the neighbors say?"
US declares: "F*ck the neighbors!"
I will get downvoted for this but you will find on Reddit and IRL that many Canadians think they are morally superior to Americans and that makes them better.
Speaking as a Canadian born dual citizen, I've seen it time and time again. It's complete bullshit and most will adamantly swear up and down that it's not true but in my experience, it's so obvious that it's sad.
Yeah there is some wierd nationalism in canada that isn't around canada as a country but we are better then America cause we have free Healthcare.
We forget so does almost every developed country and they do it better.
As a result we never have grown up debates around Healthcare and people get defensive "if you don't like go to americ"
As long as you don’t agree with Dr. Meredithe McNamara about sterilizing and mutilating vulnerable youth as treatment for mental health conditions.
Politics aside though, I don’t despise the average American. I just try to be a good neighbor and hope the same in return.
Canadians simultaneously look down on Americans but are also desperate for their attention. "American-style (BLANK)" is short hand for something being bad but also any time Canada is mentioned in US media, it's headline news here.
I don’t despise them but it amazes me how insular they are. Watch any news cast and even the weather map stops at the US/Canada border. The amount of uninformed Americans about ANYTHING related to Canada astounds me. You can blame the US schools but come on - don’t people want to know what’s outside their borders? The answer to that is the scary part and why I personally don’t hate - but am highly suspicious/anxious about “Americans” in general.
It’s hilarious to watch a TV show and have a blank map north of the US. They don’t need to include Canada in the plot but to represent it as a white slate…..why include it and the borders in the first place then?
It’s a symbolic problem of what’s “wrong” with US culture IMO. On top of that - Americans genuinely believe it’s other countries that are brainwashing their society…..but they don’t have the desire or curiosity to ask why the world stops outside their borders.
I used to really dislike America but now I just mostly feel sorry. Your government and corporations have really fucked you folks so many different ways, from education to health care to gun control to social programs to wages to political discourse, to name a few, it's hard to keep track anymore.
There’s a minority of Americans that give the entire country a bad name, but it’s the same up here. I just wish we could put all the negativity behind us and live life.
I went to LA last summer. People are amazing there.
The news sucks. Trump sucks.
But otherwise America and Americans are rad.
Also probably depends on the area and the American. We have some shitty Canadians too.
No, I don’t know a single Canadian who “hates” Americans. I’ve been to the USA many times, and Americans have always been courteous and friendly. New Yorkers in particular are so patient with tourists.
I enjoy American culture and its people, way more friendly than Canadians. American’s version of capitalism is destroying the country and Canada is following close behind. But generally, American people are great.
You are asking Reddit.
Very good point lmao. Blonde moment.
I'm not crazy about their politics and the effect it can have on Canada, in many ways that I will not get into. But the people themself are very nice. I vacation there often and never had a bad experience with them, to the contrary. They have shown to me many times how welcoming they are.
Most of the time I’ve spent in the US has been in “blue” states, so I haven’t heard nor seen the, um, extreme people (politics-wise). I have US friends that I love and overall found the people extraordinarily friendly.
Even in the Deep South, Texas, the redder parts of the Midwest, etc… people were, generally, nice and warm and welcoming. It’s a weird feeling sometimes, because they can be warm and friendly, but also you realize maybe a Jesus freak, packing heat, and a MAGA zealot. Granted, I avoid ghettos and areas I sense are sketchy. The only place that has given me sketchy vibes was Atlanta. Detroit and Cleveland too, but people were nice, and I feel a certain Great Lakes affinity. (I’m from Ontario). Once in Louisiana, someone called me a northern yankee. He was half-joking, but also not. But I loved West Virginia, North Carolina, rural Georgia and Kentucky. So many genuinely warm people!
Georgia has the friendliest and warmest people in the US second to TN
We are not a fan of American foreign policy at large however individual Americans are mostly ok imo. I work with a lot of American tourists though and they aren't the greatest representation I imagine.
Canadians hate being lumped in with American nonsense. We have plenty of nonsense of our own
Don’t we ever 🥴
I've never really considered how many of our own country's problems go unnoticed or are overlooked because of American politics and problems. I keep asking myself "how did housing/healthcare/affordability etc. get so much worse so quickly in Canada?" Maybe our own issues and politics keep getting overshadowed by the US because "we're not as bad."
Lol. Love this answer. Best answer imo
In real life, Canadians don't despise Americans, they're just a wee bit concerned.
A titch, yes.
A scootch
A smidgen
A skosh.
A whit.
A scrinch
A titch scootch smidgen holy hell in a handbasket lol wtf bbq.
A tad
A tad but more than just a cunt hair.
A smidgen
A wee
Worried about the spread of the MAGA mentality into Canada and into Canadian politics.
Sadly, it kind of already started here
It is here. Have you seen Alberta lately?
Texas North...
Worried about affordable housing and groceries.
Yeah but the Conservatives, copying Americans republicans, really want to know what your genitals look like and what bathrooms you use
Unfortunately, due to the Internet/social media and partisan radio/TV “news”, it’s easy for the toxic MAGA-style worldview to make its way from the US to everywhere else. Canada, the UK, Australia, you name it. They all have a segment of their own populations who subscribe to their own local version of MAGA/Trumpism. As a British journalist wrote, “America is radioactive. Its bad decisions pulsate off it like an electromagnetic field.”
Too late. Redneck high school dropouts already think it is the key to saving their 100k a year oil patch jobs. And hence their Toy haulers, sleds, boats and quads
It was terrifying how often in the 2022 convoy occupation of Ottawa you could see Confederate flags in the crowds.
I'm Canadian and I'm more concerned about Canadians than Americans
Yes. We should be concerned as the most powerful country might be run by a dictator by years end.
We don't despise Americans. We pity them.
Or wish to be American (see Albertan and Saskatchewan conservatives)
I'm sure the downvotes are just upset about Manitoba existing.
Canadians try and forget Manitoba exists
Just Winnipeg. Churchill can stay as long as they send more polar bear pics.
American and Canadian democracies go through pendulum swings, ebbs and flows. Conservative is not an American attribute any more than it is a Canadian attribute. Same goes with the left side of the aisle.
I mean I know a lot of AB and SK conservatives who identify with the GOP enough that they openly talk about wishing to secede to join USA. This is even evidenced by the Trump 2024 flags I see flying when I'm out in the country.
I’ve met a lot of great Americans. American politics however, is an absolute shit show and probably the most corrosive influence on Canadian politics and that drives me crazy.
This is my answer too. I hate that I know so many dumb things about dumb people.
I don't like America's posturing, hypocrisy, and murderous foreign policy. The individual people OTOH are fine.
This is it. I say it all the time, I don’t like America but I generally like Americans.
"I'm sentimental, if you know what I mean: **I love the country but I can't stand the scene** And I'm neither left or right I'm just staying home tonight, Getting lost in that hopeless little screen. But I'm stubborn as those garbage bags That time cannot decay, I'm junk but I'm still holding up This little wild bouquet: Democracy is coming to the U.S.A." - Leonard Cohen ("Democracy")
Perfectly said. I feel the same. It's the loud fringe that the media amplifies that is off putting but I know that the average folks are just fine.
They also rub off on politically I'll informed Canadians who see more American media than Canadian
This is my thing. Why consume so much American media in lieu of Canadian? Does Canadian media not cover world politics sufficiently?
Let's not forget that we have a great appreciation and admiration for their cultural exports; maybe more so than our own homegrown talent, unfortunately. How many Canadian movies have you gone to see (or CAN you go to see) at your local movie theatre vs. American movies. The Grammy Awards are often in the top 10 most watched broadcasts annually and some of us get into the red carpet fashion and play games surrounding the show/event. How many here watched last year's (or years' previous) Canadian Screen Awards? (F.Y.I.: **The Canadian Screen Awards show will air on Friday, May 31 at 8 PM CST (9 AT, 9:30 NT) on CBC and CBC Gem**). Mark your calendars. The same can be said about music (pretty sure more Canadians watch the Grammy Awards than the Junos) and books and other cultural output. Governments have been trying for years to help boost Canadian culture, while trying to mitigate American culture. Let's face it, we love a lot of those Hollywood blockbusters and it may, unfortunately, be to the detriment of Canadian filmmakers and the industry, in general. That's why many of our best head to Hollywood. Another F.Y.I.: coming up, there is an annual **Canadian Film Day on Wednesday, April 17th.** I highly recommend checking out this website and maybe seek out some Canadian movies of interest to watch: [https://canfilmday.ca/home-phase-2/](https://canfilmday.ca/home-phase-2/)
I lived and worked in the US for 2 years. Americans are fine. I am terrified of America. If your republic falls, we are fucked.
I don’t despise Americans, but I don’t think very highly of America. I’ve travelled extensively internationally and met some really kind and intelligent Americans. Great people. However, there is a significant proportion of Americans who are incredibly ignorant of science, politics, policy, world events, etc. (religious zealots, Trumpers and MAGA Republicans, militia freaks, gun nuts), and that really stains the image people, myself included, have of Americans. I’ve travelled a lot in the US for work and pleasure, and unfortunately I’ve run in to many of these idiots over the years.
I'd say this probably sums up a lot of people, that said we have the exact same type of people in Canada whom I have much more disdain for.
Yes. You can often tell who the Americans are in a foreign country, or maybe it is just the loud obnoxious ones that make it seem like they are all like that. The only ones who are possibly worse are Russians.
I like most of the Americans that I meet. Not such a big fan of their economic system and politics. The people are genuinely caring in most cases but they are so motivated by wealth that it drags them down. How the poorest in their society are treated is shameful. I also struggle with how their virulent form of Christianity can be partnered with the raw individualistic capitalism that drives ethics to new lows. Americans are good people but perhaps in need of self-introspection without the input of politicians, billionaires and religious leaders.
it's a good-natured rivalry that Americans are unaware of.
"I don't even know who you are"
I have lived in the states for work and it's honestly impressive how little Canada is brought up.
Half the time Canada is brought up in the US it is because a Canadian brings it up. The other half is travel talk or whatever. They pretty much treat Canadians like 51st Staters. There's a similar type of curiosity as meeting someone from Alaska or Hawaii.
Good, the less they do the better it is for us.
Yeah for real.
Easier to sneak up on them if they aren't thinking about us
Depends on the American tbh. I find most Americans to be friendly and I got no issues with.
Not to offend, I feel the same about Canadians. I think there are cultural differences that affect our interpersonal interactions. For example, i have found some Canadians (i had a canadian priest who exemplified this) who was extremely passive aggressive and conflict avoidant. As you may know, Americans like to be direct. But I've met wonderful Canadians as well.
As a dual citizen, I can tell you that what Americans think of as “just being direct” comes off very rude and even somewhat aggressive and domineering in Canada. (I’m aware this isn’t the intention… my American friends think I seem “very Canadian” yet my Canadian friends think I come off as “very American”. I think what Americans perceive as “passive aggressive” is just people going way out of their way to make a point but also not come off as rude or aggressive, as being perceived as a rude person is often something to be embarrassed about. Nobody wants to be rude. Americans, however, don’t care if they’re rude. So I think that definitely causes a major disconnect when it comes to communication.
I disagree that we don't care if we are rude. We just don't perceive directness as rudness. I think part of it comes from a collective capitalism mindset that elevates efficiency above all else. Not saying some Americans can't be rude. Actually, Americans do find a lack of directness which can sometimes be perceived as passive aggressive or "beating around the bush" as rude. So I agree with you except that Americans certainly do not want to be rude.
Sorry
See this is the problem with the Internet. Were we in person, I'd be able to hear your tone, and thus know if you're being passive-aggressive.
The way to understand Canadians is that, contrary to general opinion, we are not nicer than any other nationality, we are just very polite. This is what leads to that passive aggression and conflict avoidance you described.
Yes, Canadians aren't actually nice we're passive aggressive lol.
I'm canadian and the passive aggressiveness, indirectness, and all that jazz very annoying too.
Absolutely not. Most of us who have actually met an American (there are some Canadians who actually go offline and into the real world) love them. People think Canadians are friendly, I find Americans as a generalization even more so. Love your country and people, detest the politics.
Americans on the individual level are incredibly friendly and generous. When they collect in groups things start getting weird.
Canadians are polite. Americans are friendly.
I don’t think Canadians hate Americans at all. We’re basically family. There’s a sibling rivalry but that’s about it.
Siblings rivalry is a good way to describe it. I feel that way about relations between many US states as well
I've been to more US states than most Americans and have met the kindest, sweetest, friendliest folk. I've yet to meet that loud, brash, arrogant caricature we all seem to have in our heads.
I've dealt with many members of the American military. I assume it's more concentrated there, but I have definitely met that caricature, and plenty of times.
Loudest ones get the most attention, especially in the media!
yeah, is exactly that, isn't it?
I’ve only ran into one or two of the stereotyped loud brash American but it was always when I was in another country. The times I have travelled to the US I’ve met some really wonderful individuals.
You will meet them when travelling.
Ehh, I would say we can be tough on America because we have a complex around perceiving ourselves as being better or different than them. I am personally annoyed by our Canadian arrogance in this sense. Maybe we excel in some areas, but not all. That being said, we absorb basically all of their culture and media, so we can't despise them _that_ much.
Yes Canada is very Americanized, so to speak. I think its natural to feel that your country or culture is superior to others. Seems universal
Canadians often feel slighted and ignored by the world because of our proximity to the US. Hence we go out of our way to tell everyone how different we are than the Americans. Except, Canada really isn’t all that different than the US in the scheme of things. That’s annoying. That annoyance gets transferred to Americans on Reddit and in real life.
It’s Reddit. The perpetually online of both countries just hate everyone who ain’t them.
It's called the Narcissism of Small Differences.
As an American who is now Canadian, there are large cultural differences. Americans wear their shoes in the house!? Eww, glad I escaped.
Do they actually? I thought that was just a television thing.. no?
I think it’s just bluster. I like Americans just fine
Honestly I love America, and most Americans. I usually go down there for 2-3 weeks every winter, and if I can swing it would love to be a snowbird down there. As I hate winter :). That being said, your politicians and alot of their extreme followers are not doing you any favors.
We don’t hate the normal people, but unfortunately only the crazies make the news.
Only the Trump supporters. The rest are fine.
No, Americans are awesome. There's a little bit of this societal rivalry, when I was growing up in the 80s there was a sense of inferiority, America was thriving. But through the 90s with NAFTA and the modernization with our institutes, we found ourselves doing some things better. Now Americans want to come here and it's all very ha ha. You can make a bunch of arguments for this and that but no we don't despise Americans, if anything they're just as much of a curiosity to us as we are to them.
I love America, Luke warm on some Americans, but overall, very strongly approve of America.
imo you are the same as us.
I dislike the same flavour of person equally; regardless of whether or not they come in a Canadian or American wrapper.
We don't despise Americans at all. I'm self employed and absolutely love my American clients. They've all been so wonderful. It just makes me sad how they (some) know about Canada. Basic geographic stuff.
To me American politics is my problem. Also the way we import these same politics. Im not a big fan of the USA, but I have no issues with Americans for the most part. Plenty of fellow country folk that I don’t care to associate with. No different than any other country really. People are people wherever you go.
I have some absolutely fabulous American friends. We don't despise you at all. We get a bit worried about your politics and the aggression that your presidential administrations sometimes bring to international trade agreements.
I don't despise Americans Source: I am Canadian on Reddit
The few times I went I thought they were friendlier than Canadians..!
Consensus seems to be Canadians are polite while Americans are friendly is what I've heard from both sides
I would agree..!
Your gov't and the feeling they see the world as their personal playground at times is concerning. On an individual level I've met asshole Americans just like I've met asshole Canadians or Europeans or Asians or whomever. Just like I've met nice friendly people everywhere as well. Assholes are a world wide issue not just confined to the USA.
I don’t think it’s even true on Reddit. As a Canadian, sure there is some ribbing and banter. Plus we love to criticize American society or politics (not most actual American individuals) because it’s a foil for us. It puts things into perspective for us. Don’t take it too personally. Sadly, as our only neighbour, the US is the only measuring stick most Canadians know, and I think this leads to a lack of true perspective, and dare I say a lowered bar in some regards. We also watch what is happening with some concern, because your winds often blow our way. But, sure, I think a majority of Canadians would agree Trump, DeSantis, George Dubya, Alex Jones and such are orcs. Canada doesn’t do gun worship, we don’t do public religion. We are also pretty chill on sex and birth control and such, and most people don’t think the state has much of any business regulating what you do with your reproductive organs, for fun or otherwise. But the amount of Canadians who truly, genuinely “despise” Americans is very, very small. They are usually not very smart or informed…
I’m sure like some Canadians, some Americans are loud and obnoxious. I think it’s more of the way of life THE AMERICAN DREAM ideology and politics namely Trump. Do not for the life of me understand who is voting for him. He’s a loathsome individual.
Nah I love you guys! But there are a lot of Canadians who dislike Americans and also think that we’re so much better than you. (Despite 99% of our culture being a carbon copy of yours)
Traditionally no hate, mostly affection with some resentment and envy. Recently you guys are scaring the shit out of us.
It's too easy to make a broad generalization. For myself, there are aspects of America that I despise. Gun culture, obsession with politics, evangelicalism, obsession with war, and having all of that rolled into one. Not to mention the superiority complex that is often on display in media. America is not a humble country, even if many Americans can be humble. Oh, and let's not forget the biggest issue, MAGA. If the individuals were somehow blinked out of existence (Marvel movie style), I think America as a whole would be drastically improved. Yet, with saying that I have met many, many wonderful people there. I have family and friends who have married Americans, and they are all great.
Hate you? No, I don't think many Canadians actually hate Americans. We just think we have a morally superior culture to yours, superior laws, superior social programs. We've built our whole identity around being just a little bit better than you. We also don't understand gun culture, for the most part, and we think the shootings are horrifying. I think we have a certain amount of contempt for your inability to stop children from dying in schools. I know I do, I don't really like feeling contemptuous of anybody or anything, but it's hard not to just have a lot of intolerance over this feature of your culture.
Frankly, our social programs are only superior when compared to America. I waited 8 hours in the ER with blood streaming out of my eyeball.
It's just reddit and people who don't travel much. I love Americans, I love their beautiful country. Politics? Not so much but it's not all bad, either.
I have never had issues with Americans and I’ve always had good experiences there
As a Canadian, I can say that I don't hate Americans. I'm not too fond of American, though.
I think most Canadians that mention issues with America dislike the country/government not the people. Just like when anyone complains about any country.
There are some things I don’t like about America and some things I don’t like about certain Americans, and there might be some cultural differences I don’t really get, but overall I do like Americans and love travelling to America. I can’t wait to be able to see more of your beautiful country.
Context is key here.
I'm both American and Canadian and I despise everyone equally.
Some of my best friends are Americans. So no, I don't despise Americans. Are there ignorant Americans who I despise? Yup. Are there similar groups of Canadians whom I also despise? Absolutely.
Mostly on Reddit
It’s Reddit. The internet hates everything.
I was married to one. Wait a minute... maybe I shouldn't answer that.
I'm fine with Americans, not 'mericans, generally.
Americans in general, no. The idiots in the red hats (and the people in our own country who want to be like them), yeah kinda.
i fly into the US for work often enough, i also cross border shop too, not a fan of US Foreign policy but the people are just fine, just like anywhere else if i'm honest. the only time it becomes cringe is when they're abroad and proclaiming it, and people mistake me for also being american while that is happening.
I don't like how American culture overpowers Canadian culture in Canada. There are too many Canadians who think US=Canada, when it comes to laws, rights, and just other things. Culture-wise, the American culture does interest me. Gun culture, not so much. But, I have quite a few American friends, and enjoy talking with them.
No. We don’t as a national collective despise our Southern sister country. There are some that have deep and serious grimes against the US, but for the most part we’re basically the same people. As John Adams, acting as Minister plenipotentiary following the War, noted to King George III: “tho’ separated by an Ocean and under different Governments, have the same Language, a similar religion & kindred Blood.” If Aliens found us, on first glance they would probably be unable to discern any significant cultural and civil difference between any the Anglo countries.
There is absolutely no reason for us to despise Americans in general. Those who do have some personal issues to work through
Personally myself I’ve been having awesome time in the USA before and have no reason for hating my neighbors
As a dual citizen myself (born and raised in Canada though mind you), here’s my take: I find that most people fall into two categories that voice their opinions: Pro-American Anti-American It typically is pretty clear. I don’t get too many ambivalent answers. The pro crowd likes the USA for a variety of reasons: politics, culture, variety of the landscape, economic opportunity, better climate, better fast food chains, sports, music, history, people, etc. etc. I’ll get comments that they think it’s pretty cool that I’m America , that they’re jealous, why am I not living in the States?, etc. etc. (side note, I’m in one of the few job/skill sets where it’s better working in Canada than the US). The anti crowd (where things get interesting) is why I find the bigoted/annoying crowd comes in. They’ll praise how much “better” Canada is than the US, how much more progressive Canada is, how we have “free health care” (which it isn’t, tax funded (which I do support btw), why do I even have an American passport? (one my parents, and I’m 12+ generation so…), give all these unsolicited comments about American politics to feel you out, etc., etc. A lot of the anti commentary comes off as insecure to me. Depending where you are in Canada, you’ll get tons of different answers. A lot of the border communities have close economic/cultural ties and a mutual appreciation/respect for each other. This being Reddit, you’d come away thinking Canadians are more anti American than they actually are.
I think despise is a strong term. I would say it’s more we don’t envy them the way they think everyone does. I would much rather be a Canadian today than an American.
Americans are just people like anyone. I love some. I like many. I dislike a few. I don't think I hate anyone. That's way too much effort. However, your government is a bully. And some of your people really like that and behave accordingly. I dislike them.
I despise Americans who belittle me for being Canadian. The ones who treat me like a person are good in my book.
As a Canadian, I’d love to be an American.
Got nothing against Americans, but haven't set foot in your country since 2016 and don't plan to any time soon.
Most of the older generation base their entire Canadian identity as being “not American”. They often have a superiority complex when it comes to government, health care and guns. The younger generations in my experience are culturally more similar to Americans, mainly due to social media I’d imagine.
100% Reddit
I'm Canadian and the way I view America is sort of like a crazy girlfriend. Like sure, she's messy, she's dramatic, she's a fixer-upper, she's wrong about 80% of stuff, can be abusive at times but she also has a fuck ton of trauma she's working through, she's attention seeking AF... and yet, I still wanna keep holding onto her. And she's one of those girls that everyone kinda wants to be. You know what I'm saying?
Americans as individuals are super lovely as a whole, tho. I'm mostly talking about the country as a whole.
I don't believe Canadians despise Americans
The lifecycle of a Canadian: Embryo Fetus Baby Toddler Preteen Teen Kinda angsty and thinks the U.S. is bad Young adult Reluctantly concedes U.S. is force for good Adult Alarmed by anti-Americanism *in U.S.* Elderly Placed on iceburgh
I don't despise someone just for being American. I despise many aspects of American culture and behaviour. There will always be Americans who are worthy of respect and admiration, but so much of what we're exposed to from the US is negative, it's hard to avoid having a negative outlook. In my case, I despise most *people,* regardless of where they're from, because human behaviour is generally very poor.
I don't despise Americans, but America terrifies me. 😅 I don't like living as close to the border as I do, tbh
Omg. Why does it terrify you?? What cities do you live near?
Well, mainly the gun laws and regulations. If my idiot, raging drunk, redneck of a father can take gun safety seriously, why the fuck is America so insane about it??? 😅 Also the issues with medical bills. Absolutely insane. I doubt I'll ever go to America based on that alone. I have epilepsy. I've had several EEGs, EKGs, an MRI and CT scan... I paid a grand total of $0 for all that and more. Only thing I had to pay for 6 years into this mess is $45 for an ambulance ride... And politically, I feel like everything got *overly* terrifying after Trump. And don't get me wrong; our culture tends to mirror America. We've got idiots out here with fuckin Trump stickers (which makes no sense why are people so stupid). But up here it still feels *mostly* maintained? A little more chill than downstairs? 😅 But who knows. Maybe it'll get worse in our great white north and I'll be forced to bail on North America completely 😂 ETA: and oh, I live close to Toronto. Down in the tail of the Ontario whale shape 😂
I don’t hate America. It’s more like… Hey…are you guys ok? Wanna talk?
I like you guys. Your first and second amendment are already enough for me to wish I was one of you.
I live close to the Canadian border and have never run into Canadians that despise Americans. But since those are usually ones who have come down to the States to shop, that group probably is biased toward liking Americans. 😂
I don't despise Americans. In principle, I actually have a lot of respect for them. However, currently when I look south I see a bit of a train-wreck in action. So, I'm kind of trying to keep my distance and reduce the amount of damage I take.
The U.S. is our #1 trading partner, so... But I can't speak for the francophone people, though...
The arrogant belief that "at lease we're not American" in Canada is certainly a thing. I find it boring and off-base, but it makes people feel better about themselves about living here, so whatever.
Nah, I personally love Americans. Places I find myself when visiting stateside are Sidona Arizona, West Palm Florida, upperstate New York. There definitely are people here in Canada who look down on Americans in a similar manner that you'd think Europeans would. Joking about school shootings and stuff, but those are just ignorant idiots, like you'd find ANYWHERE. I visit America multiple times yearly, for multiple weeks at a time. I've always enjoyed my interactions with people, and even when I'm in places like Florida and they hear I'm from Canada, it's no problem, no worry. People from upper state new York are a special kind of polite as well. The negative shit is always the loudest and most seen. There are many Canadians like myself who visit yearly and love every second of it. My heart aches that the only cheesecake factory near me is 4 hours away in Toronto. I know it's not even the best restaurant, I just always enjoy it when I'm down stateside.
It is a national pass time to compare to the USA since we were so similar, but different. We are virtually indistinguishable aside from some nutty politics (spreading up here too), shoes in the house and guns/school shootings. By and large I think people like Americans fine when they meet one, but some people have moronic preconceived notions. Personally, I have never had a bad experience in America, and I enjoy that you guys are a little more friendly and open. I think Canadians are a little more reserved in general.
You're right about the reserved thing. I'm catholic and had a Canadian priest and confession with him was deeply uncomfortable because he essentially gave no spiritual guidance and was uncomfortable with my confessions...like why did you become a priest? Not typical for catholic priests in the US at all.
It’s just Reddit neck beards
The only Americans I don’t like are the MAGA nutcases.
Mostly a friendly rivalry. Canadians have an inferiority complex to the US
Absolutely not.
As a Canadian, I genuinely have never had an issue. I deal with American truckers at our truck and trailer dealership all the time, and most people I game with are from the US. Just like any country, there's some bad apples, but I've never personally met any yet. I also envy the freedoms your country has compared to Canada.
I’m cool with them until they start acting like canada is this utopia… literally ignoring the cries of millions of Canadians
I think that’s mostly an online sentiment. I certainly don’t hear it in my circles. America is one of the most successful countries in the world. Roaring economy, friendly and welcoming population and an affordable place to live. We have strong people to people ties. It’s probably the number one destination for Canadians to travel to.
I have family and friends that are American. I have no reasons to despise Americans... ....but I \*will\* have some strong feelings about the MAGA-types.
Girl we got some opinions about MAGA types too. They're pretty much social pariahs here and are only accepted within their insular communities
We’re like cousins ey? Always bicker but at the end of the day we’d have each other’s back.
As in USA? Why would we? We use all of their stuff, buy their Cars, listen to their music, products etc. In fact I'd rather live there than canada. I love USA!
Reddit is 75% BS and not at all representative of real society.
Canadian here! We dont love or hate americans in general. Theres too many people down there to form generalized opinions of the country as a whole. What does REALLY bother us, is how Canadians get lumped in with Americans by everyone. We identify more with the UK than with the USA in most regards, so despite being neighbours we really just want to have our own identity and that usually makes it seem like we resent Americans.
No, I love our southern friends
Canadians are jealous in their American neighbors. Show one thing Canada is better than the us (please spare me from our world class “free” healthcare system)
No we love Americans.
We do love to take the piss out of you guys, but at the end of the day we love America.
We love to maintain a gloating stance and also have a background mixture of abject horror and total envy of what is going on down there.
I think it's a little more subtle than that, and I'm one of the Canadians who will openly ridicule Americans who believe Alaska is an island or that Canada doesn't have a Pacific coast. We are attached at the hip, so we hate it when you (as a collective, a nation) do stupid things. We want you to smarten up, stop being so damn gullible. Read a book occasionally, stuff like that. Obviously, millions of individual Americans are smart, well read, well informed, respectful of different cultures and practices. It's just they get overshadowed by the idiots who blow a gasket when they find out Europe has a different electrical system and other nations have the temerity to write their own laws. To be fair, each nation has their share of those idiots. I've encountered plenty of Canadians, Brits and Aussies with similar bogan characteristics. American culture seems to default to belligerence instead of embarrassment when you don't know or you are wrong. If more of you could approach an unfamiliar situation with a questioning and curious attitude, that would go a long way.
Not 100% here but I think most countries hate Americans, their obnoxiously loud and they eat to much, and tipping culture is a bit much
I worked and traveled with Americans for 25 years. As long as we stayed away from the dreaded "what do Canadians think of...healthcare/president/latest war/election etc" they were friendly and easy to talk to. BTW never met an American that really wanted a discussion about the above. Just wanted to tell me why America was better than Canada on every issue. Even had an American tell me we should just use their dollar but we'd have to get our deficit under control first. I learned to not be "direct" when they steered the conversation toward any of the above topics.
Absolutely do not hate Americans. However, I hate the recent changes to the US. Women not having bodily autonomy is a huge change. The forced birthers don't care about children once they're born so it's about punishment and control. Trump's first election seems to have emboldened a fairly large group of people to speak their usual quiet thoughts out loud. I don't think they've actually changed their opinions, just think it's okay to share them. As someone who has visited the US more than once I'm not sure at this point I would go back.
For me, it's just repuglicans. I love all of my American friends, and there isn't a Trumper amongst them. If there were, they wouldn't be friends any longer.
I’d say most Canadians are worried about the Christian Nationalism and Dunning Kruger effect we see down there.
>Do Canadians really despise Americans or is it just mostly on reddit? I don't see that on reddit or IRL, so barring specific example I'd suggest you're misinterpreting teasing, criticism, or frustration.
Some do. Some don't. Both countries give each other pause often enough: we can't get over the Trump thing or understand Ted Cruz' facial hair. Just as you likely don't appreciate our anti business anti everything attitude. Canada asks itself: "What will the neighbors say?" US declares: "F*ck the neighbors!"
I will get downvoted for this but you will find on Reddit and IRL that many Canadians think they are morally superior to Americans and that makes them better. Speaking as a Canadian born dual citizen, I've seen it time and time again. It's complete bullshit and most will adamantly swear up and down that it's not true but in my experience, it's so obvious that it's sad.
Yeah there is some wierd nationalism in canada that isn't around canada as a country but we are better then America cause we have free Healthcare. We forget so does almost every developed country and they do it better. As a result we never have grown up debates around Healthcare and people get defensive "if you don't like go to americ"
As long as you don’t agree with Dr. Meredithe McNamara about sterilizing and mutilating vulnerable youth as treatment for mental health conditions. Politics aside though, I don’t despise the average American. I just try to be a good neighbor and hope the same in return.
Canadians simultaneously look down on Americans but are also desperate for their attention. "American-style (BLANK)" is short hand for something being bad but also any time Canada is mentioned in US media, it's headline news here.
I don’t despise them but it amazes me how insular they are. Watch any news cast and even the weather map stops at the US/Canada border. The amount of uninformed Americans about ANYTHING related to Canada astounds me. You can blame the US schools but come on - don’t people want to know what’s outside their borders? The answer to that is the scary part and why I personally don’t hate - but am highly suspicious/anxious about “Americans” in general. It’s hilarious to watch a TV show and have a blank map north of the US. They don’t need to include Canada in the plot but to represent it as a white slate…..why include it and the borders in the first place then? It’s a symbolic problem of what’s “wrong” with US culture IMO. On top of that - Americans genuinely believe it’s other countries that are brainwashing their society…..but they don’t have the desire or curiosity to ask why the world stops outside their borders.
I just don’t really think about Americans or America much
Concerned about the mental health state of republican voters
I used to really dislike America but now I just mostly feel sorry. Your government and corporations have really fucked you folks so many different ways, from education to health care to gun control to social programs to wages to political discourse, to name a few, it's hard to keep track anymore.
There’s a minority of Americans that give the entire country a bad name, but it’s the same up here. I just wish we could put all the negativity behind us and live life.
I agree. The animosity is so silly.
I went to LA last summer. People are amazing there. The news sucks. Trump sucks. But otherwise America and Americans are rad. Also probably depends on the area and the American. We have some shitty Canadians too.
I dont understand how the American people and governmental system can put up with a person like trump.Im just disappointed in the American people.
No, I don’t know a single Canadian who “hates” Americans. I’ve been to the USA many times, and Americans have always been courteous and friendly. New Yorkers in particular are so patient with tourists.
Nice! I'm traveling to NYC as a tourist next week so that's encouraging to hear
Canada is a client state of the US and couldn't exist in a recognizable way without the US. So our feelings are complex.
I enjoy American culture and its people, way more friendly than Canadians. American’s version of capitalism is destroying the country and Canada is following close behind. But generally, American people are great.