50 years after its original airing, Archie Bunker’s defense of the National Anthem is making waves online.
Archie Bunker was undoubtedly an unforgettable TV character. For years, he was the star of “All in the Family” and struck a chord with millions of Americans who felt they could relate to his views on being patriotic.
The show depicted Bunker as a hardworking American man who had previously served in the armed forces, explaining his refusal to stand by and allow another person to belittle the Star-Spangled Banner or show disrespect toward what it represented.
Although some of his remarks haven’t aged well in light of the current “woke” movement in America, Bunker’s defense of the national anthem still resonates with millions who continue to prioritize their pride in America above all else. In this scene, Bunker is watching TV with his son-in-law, Meathead.
As the national anthem plays before a sports event, Meathead criticizes the anthem, arguing it isn’t a good song because it glorifies the horrors of war. While today’s critics claim the anthem is racist against Black, brown, and indigenous people, Meathead’s objection was rooted in its association with the War of 1812 between the young United States and Great Britain.
As Meathead expressed his disdain for the anthem, Archie Bunker quickly came to its defense. “That’s a terrible song,” Meathead says to his father-in-law. Bunker, unable to believe what he’s hearing, wastes no time letting Meathead know his thoughts.
