PDF Summary:Preparing for War, by Bradley Onishi

Preparing for War traces the growth of White Christian nationalism in the United States. Author Bradley Onishi examines how conservative Christians intertwined religion with conservative political ideology in the mid-20th century. He explores the rise of the New Religious Right, how it leveraged fearmongering about social change, and its penchant for conspiracy theories and authoritarianism.

Onishi delves into how White Christian nationalists fused faith and fervent nationalism, often using religious rhetoric and symbols to justify supremacy and hostility toward minorities. He scrutinizes the January 6th Capitol insurrection as the culmination of the movement's anti-democratic drift and mythmaking, and warns of its separatist aspirations in regions like the "American Redoubt."

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• The control over women's reproductive rights has been a longstanding issue, often linked to broader societal efforts to maintain traditional power structures. Historically, limiting women's autonomy has been a method to ensure that societal norms and hierarchies remain unchallenged.

Other Perspectives

• There may be a belief that the defense of traditional gender roles is based on interpretations of biological differences between sexes, rather than an ideology of male supremacy.
• There may be proponents of "family values" who support traditional family structures but also advocate for the rights and dignity of racial minorities and LGBTQ+ individuals, suggesting that the two are not mutually exclusive.
• It could be argued that the desire to increase birth rates within a community is not inherently linked to white supremacy but could be a concern about demographic changes and the sustainability of cultural values.

The growing variety of ethnicities and faiths towards the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century intensified the discomfort and antagonism among white Christian nationalists, who saw their dominance and status as being under threat.

This part of the book explores the way in which the growing variety of ethnicities and cultures in the United States intensified the animosity of white Christian nationalists, leading to more aggressive actions by them. Onishi explores how their sense of disenfranchisement and impotence deepened their dedication to tactics that erode democratic principles and their willingness to abandon long-standing democratic norms.

Proponents of White Christian Nationalism increasingly embraced tactics that undermined democratic principles, including gerrymandering, implementing barriers to voting, and endorsing authoritarian figures, all to maintain their vision of an America where white Christians hold sway.

White Christian nationalists often resort to strategies that erode the foundations of democracy when they sense a threat to their dominant status stemming from demographic and cultural changes. The author discusses strategies like gerrymandering, initiatives to hinder minority voters, and the growing admiration for autocratic leaders like Vladimir Putin, showing a willingness to abandon long-standing democratic values to preserve a vision of America that is primarily white and Christian.

The author suggests that a collective which only considers democracy legitimate if it produces results they agree with is inherently inclined toward authoritarian rule. Onishi contends that the embrace of such tactics marks a worrisome erosion of democratic values, favoring power over the will of the people.

Context

• These tactics undermine the democratic process by ensuring that political power does not reflect the actual will of the diverse population, leading to a government that does not represent all its citizens equally.

Other Perspectives

• The admiration for figures like Vladimir Putin may not be widespread among White Christian nationalists, and could be a viewpoint held by a vocal minority rather than the majority.
• It could be argued that the tactics mentioned, such as gerrymandering, are not exclusive to white Christian nationalists and have been used by various political groups throughout American history to maintain power.
• The admiration for certain authoritarian figures might be defended as an appreciation for their stance on issues that align with the individuals' values, rather than a wholesale endorsement of authoritarianism.
• White Christian nationalists may argue that their actions are in fact an attempt to preserve the will of the people, as they believe they are representing the interests of a significant portion of the population who share their values.
• The group may believe that their vision aligns with the original intent of the nation's founders and that they are preserving democracy by preventing its deviation from its founding principles.

Christian nationalism integrates authoritarian tendencies and conspiracy theories, which are deeply intertwined with its strategic and spiritual dimensions

The ideology of Christian nationalism merged a steadfast set of beliefs with the notion of an imminent apocalypse and a binary perspective, portraying those who hold contrasting political and cultural beliefs as celestial foes that must be vanquished.

This section of the book scrutinizes the belief system driving the movement, noting how its fundamental tenets are inclined towards authoritarianism and a penchant for baseless conjectural stories. Onishi analyzes how religious language and rituals are used to sanctify political aims and dehumanize opponents.

Proponents of Christian nationalism often used sacred symbols, rituals, and language with divine connotations to sanctify their political goals and demonize their adversaries.

Onishi explores how proponents of Christian Nationalism adeptly merge their political goals with a profound sense of spiritual obligation, employing language, symbols, and rituals associated with their faith. They justify their actions and demean their adversaries by depicting their cause as a battle between good and evil, viewing themselves as chosen combatants by a higher power. The use of metaphors likening America to a "beacon of light atop a mountain" and the incorporation of Jewish symbols such as the shofar sanctify the nation in their eyes, legitimizing acts of aggression against those they view as enemies of the sacred.

The author details how these tactics create a powerful emotional appeal that resonates within communities already primed to view outsiders with suspicion and distrust. Biblical narratives, symbols, and rituals are utilized to foster a collective identity, embedding a sense of ethical ascendancy and purpose aimed at reclaiming what is perceived as a nation wrongfully taken away.

Other Perspectives

• The integration of faith and politics can be a means of moral reflection, encouraging political leaders and communities to consider ethical dimensions in policy-making.
• By depicting adversaries as evil, it dehumanizes opponents and may justify extreme measures against them, potentially leading to conflict and violence.
• The incorporation of Jewish symbols such as the shofar into Christian nationalist rhetoric could be considered a form of cultural appropriation, disrespecting the original religious and cultural context of these symbols.
• The concept of defending the sacred can be seen in many political and religious movements, not exclusively Christian nationalism, and does not always result in aggression.
• The use of emotional appeal is a common practice in many forms of communication and advocacy, not exclusive to any particular ideology or movement.
• The use of religious narratives and symbols does not inherently provide an ethical framework; ethical behavior is determined by actions and choices rather than symbols or rituals.
• The notion of reclaiming a nation often relies on a selective interpretation of history, which may ignore or minimize the contributions and rights of other groups within the nation.

Advocates for Christian nationalism leveraged the adaptable nature of conspiracy theories, which included claims of stolen elections, to erode the credibility of democratic structures and procedures that stood in opposition to their preferred conception of America.

Onishi examines the significant influence of conspiracy theories on the viewpoints of Christian nationalists. He argues that these belief systems provide a reassuring and psychologically satisfying framework that justifies their increasing sense of alienation from their beloved image of the United States, which they primarily see as a nation of white Christians. The proliferation of stories, including those about Pizzagate, the "birther" controversy, and allegations of election fraud, established a foundation that enabled them to dismiss accepted facts, demonize opponents, and justify their efforts to undermine democratic processes.

The author illuminates how the fabricated story of a manipulated election erodes the current government's trustworthiness and justifies later efforts to overturn the results of the vote. They depict their efforts as a valiant mission to reclaim a country wrongfully taken and to restore a divinely endorsed social order.

Other Perspectives

• It could be suggested that the erosion of trust in democratic structures is a broader societal issue, influenced by a variety of factors, and not solely the result of actions taken by advocates for Christian nationalism.
• Highlighting potential vulnerabilities in election systems can lead to reforms and improvements that strengthen the credibility and security of democratic procedures.
• The spread of such stories can sometimes inadvertently lead to beneficial outcomes, such as increased civic engagement or the implementation of more robust systems to ensure the integrity of elections.
• It's possible that trust in government institutions was already declining, and fabricated stories simply acted as a catalyst rather than the root cause of the erosion of trust.
• Portraying the overturning of election results as a valiant mission can be divisive and may incite conflict rather than promote the constructive resolution of political differences.
• The idea of the U.S. as a nation of white Christians overlooks the historical contributions and presence of Indigenous peoples, enslaved Africans, and subsequent immigrants from all over the world who have shaped the country's history and identity.
• Some conspiracy theories have been proven true in the past, which suggests that a blanket dismissal of all such theories could prevent the uncovering of actual malfeasance or corruption.

Certain advocates of Christian nationalism began to endorse authoritarian leaders and regimes, such as Vladimir Putin's government in Russia, viewing them as models of a quintessential Christian society when they faced opposition in political and cultural domains.

This section of the text examines an unsettling tendency within the movement, characterized by an increasing readiness to endorse overseas despots and a keenness to adopt their tactics within the nation's borders. Onishi explores why individuals who are growing disenchanted with the failure of democracy to uphold their advantages are drawn to authoritarian leaders.

White conservative Christians are migrating to the western regions of the United States, particularly to a zone often referred to as the "American Redoubt," aiming to create isolated enclaves where they can freely follow their theocratic aspirations away from the constraints of democratic systems.

Onishi examines the migration of white Christian families from diverse urban areas to regions such as Idaho, where they aim to create enclaves that mirror their vision of an America with homogenous racial and religious characteristics. The author links this movement to figures like James Wesley Rawles, who advocate for separatism and the establishment of Christian-controlled communities as a refuge from a perceived collapse of American society.

The book outlines the concerning beliefs and strategies used by key figures in this group, highlighting how Matt Shea has advocated for the death of individuals who resist his concept of a society governed by theocracy. Onishi argues that the Redoubt movement represents a dangerous form of Christian nationalism, characterized by the desire to create a society ruled by spiritual doctrines, lacking the protective mechanisms found within a democratic system.

Practical Tips

• Start a blog or social media page focused on sharing stories and experiences from diverse community members, including white conservative Christians who have moved to the western regions. This platform can serve as a bridge for cultural exchange and understanding, fostering a sense of community among old and new residents.
• Explore the concept of self-reliance by starting a small vegetable garden or herb box in your living space. This allows you to experience a slice of sustainable living, which is often a key component of movements like the American Redoubt. You'll learn basic gardening skills and understand the value of growing your own food, which can be empowering and enlightening.
• You can explore your own theocratic aspirations by starting a virtual community on a platform like Discord or Slack. Create a space where like-minded individuals can discuss and practice their beliefs without physical constraints. For example, set up channels dedicated to different aspects of your theocratic vision, such as ethical discussions, educational resources, and virtual meetups, allowing for a shared community experience that respects individual autonomy.
• Engage in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds to gain insights into their experiences with homogeneity and diversity. Ask open-ended questions about how they feel their racial or religious identity has influenced their sense of belonging in their community. This can help you understand the personal and social effects of homogeneity from multiple perspectives.
• Consider volunteering for local organizations that align with your values to foster a sense of community and shared purpose. By contributing your time to causes you care about, you'll meet others who share your ideals and lay the groundwork for a community that reflects your shared principles.
• Engage in reflective journaling to explore your personal beliefs about governance and religion. Write daily entries that challenge your views, question the role of religion in society, and consider the consequences of a theocratic society. This exercise can help you clarify your stance on the separation of church and state and the importance of religious freedom.
• Engage in community service with organizations that promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation. By volunteering your time, you can experience firsthand how collaboration between different religious groups can build community cohesion and counteract divisive narratives. This practical involvement can provide a counter-narrative to the idea of a single, dominant religious identity being tied to national identity.
• Create a "spiritual doctrine of the week" challenge for yourself to practice a specific principle in various aspects of your life. For example, if the focus is on generosity, find ways to share your time, resources, or knowledge with others throughout the week. This approach allows you to deeply explore and understand the impact of each doctrine one at a time.
• Volunteer as an election poll worker to gain firsthand experience with the democratic process. This will give you insight into the practical aspects of voting and the importance of having systems in place to protect the integrity of elections. It's a way to contribute to the democratic system while learning about its safeguards.

The January 6th insurrection underscored and amplified the deeply entrenched beliefs inherent in Christian nationalist ideology.

Onishi suggests that the insurrection was the culmination of a prolonged period characterized by the creation of myths, intentional scheming, and conversations deeply entrenched in the ideologies associated with White Christian Nationalism. The author depicts the uprising as a critical event that fuels additional conflict and propels supporters of MAGA to pursue an alternate reality.

The assault on the US Capitol on January 6th marked the culmination of calculated strategies employed by nationalists who advocate for white Christian dominance, increasingly resorting to anti-democratic tactics to uphold their vision of an America governed by white Christian hegemony.

Onishi argues that the events of January 6th should be interpreted within a wider framework. He depicts this as the culmination of a widespread trend involving dialogue, strategic organization, and the growing embrace of strategies that erode the foundational aspects of democratic governance, especially among groups of White Christian nationalists. The writer argues that the uprising sought to reshape the United States into a country that prioritizes the dominance of white Christians, demonstrating a willingness to abandon democratic ideals to achieve their goals.

Onishi shows how the events of that day were fueled by a growing sense of grievance and resentment among White Christian nationalists, who perceived their cultural and political dominance to be under threat. The author stresses that extended portrayals of the nation under siege and demonization of opponents laid the groundwork for viewing the Capitol attack as a rightful reclaiming of "their" country.

The insurrection was characterized by the demonstrators' employment of sacred emblems, ceremonies, and vernacular, who additionally drew clear connections to scriptural combat, emphasizing the critical influence of the belief in the nation's Christian identity during the event.

The insurrectionists' prominent use of Christian symbols, participation in rituals, and choice of words highlighted the significant role that Christian nationalism played in the uprising, as observed by Onishi. The author paints a picture of a setting where a mix of signs proclaiming "Jesus 2020," crosses, and disconcerting invocations of biblical verses wishing for the defeat of opponents were mingled with impromptu prayer sessions. He argues that White Christian nationalists used religious language and imagery to sanctify their actions, depicting their forceful entry into the Capitol as a divine mission to safeguard the core values of America.

The author contrasts the conduct of the rioters with the biblical narrative of Joshua's conquest of Jericho. Many participants in the upheaval perceived it as a holy struggle, comparable to the one Joshua from the Bible waged, against entities they believed to be hostile to their religious beliefs and their country. This biblical framework, according to Onishi, provided a theological justification for violence and the overthrow of a democratically elected government.

Context

• Language that invokes religious themes can be particularly persuasive, as it taps into deeply held beliefs and emotions, potentially motivating individuals to act in ways they might not otherwise consider.
• Critics argue that Christian nationalism undermines the separation of church and state, threatens religious pluralism, and can lead to exclusionary or discriminatory practices against those who do not share the same beliefs.
• Throughout history, religious texts have been used to justify violence, often by interpreting them as mandates for defending or expanding a faith or nation.
• Invoking religious imagery can strengthen group identity and solidarity, making participants feel part of a larger, righteous cause, which can diminish personal accountability.
• Some religious leaders and figures may endorse or propagate the idea of a divine mission, influencing followers to adopt this perspective and participate in actions they believe are spiritually justified.
• The fall of Jericho is symbolic of overcoming insurmountable obstacles with divine help. For some, this can translate into a belief that their cause is righteous and destined to succeed, regardless of legal or moral considerations.
• Certain media outlets and social media platforms have played a role in amplifying narratives that frame political conflicts as battles over core American values, often using religious language to galvanize support.

The depiction of individuals like Ashli Babbitt as emblematic martyrs for the Christian nationalist movement emphasizes the efforts to idealize the insurrection and establish a foundation for subsequent confrontations.

The writer analyzes how figures like Ashli Babbitt, who died during the turmoil, are depicted as martyrs, fostering the creation of legendary tales surrounding the Capitol riot events and rationalizing possible future acts of violence. Onishi details how conservative media figures like Tucker Carlson, along with politicians and some religious leaders, have deliberately reframed the narrative of the insurrection, portraying Babbitt as an innocent victim and the jailed rioters as "political prisoners" unjustly persecuted by a tyrannical government.

Onishi suggests that the formulation of these myths goes beyond revisiting history; it also lays the groundwork for future conflicts by fostering resentment, rationalizing hostile behavior, and continuously promoting the story that they have endured injustices. They strive to justify further efforts to undermine democratic principles and reclaim their perceived dominance by portraying their actions as a rightful defense of a country they contend was unjustly wrested from their control.

Other Perspectives

• Elevating individuals involved in the insurrection to the status of martyrs could be seen as a misappropriation of religious language to serve a political narrative.
• The portrayal of individuals like Ashli Babbitt by some may not be an effort to idealize the insurrection but rather to seek justice for what they perceive as an unwarranted use of force or a lack of due process.
• Some may argue that the focus on Babbitt is an isolated phenomenon and does not necessarily reflect a broader movement or strategy aimed at promoting future confrontations.
• It could be argued that the portrayal of individuals by media figures is a reflection of the diverse opinions in society and that different interpretations of events are inevitable.
• The use of the term "innocent victim" in this context could be seen as minimizing the seriousness of the Capitol riot and the actions of those who participated in it.
• Calling rioters "political prisoners" might imply a level of state oppression that is not evidenced by the transparent legal proceedings and public trials they are afforded.
• The narrative around any historical event is subject to change over time as new information comes to light, and what may seem like reframing could be part of the natural evolution of understanding complex events.
• The portrayal of individuals as martyrs might be intended to honor their memory rather than to incite future confrontations.
• The interpretation of myths can vary widely among individuals; not everyone exposed to a particular narrative will necessarily feel resentment.
• The term "hostile behavior" is subjective and can be interpreted differently by various groups, depending on their perspectives and experiences.
• The promotion of enduring injustices may not be a deliberate or continuous effort, but rather a response to specific events that are perceived as unjust by certain groups.
• The focus on the potential for future conflicts might overshadow efforts by other members of the same communities to denounce violence and work towards democratic dialogue and peaceful resolution of differences.
• The concept of defending the country can be co-opted by various factions to justify actions that may not align with the rule of law or democratic principles.
• The concept of what constitutes democratic principles can vary, and what some view as undermining, others may see as strengthening or returning to foundational values.
• The pursuit of dominance based on a perceived historical or cultural entitlement can perpetuate cycles of conflict and hinder efforts towards reconciliation and unity within a diverse society.

Efforts to reinterpret the events of January 6th, downplay the role of Christian nationalism, and depict the rioters as "patriots" or as victims of unfair detention underscore the enduring influence of Christian nationalism advocates.

This section of the book explores how the movement has moved forward in the wake of the insurrection. Onishi analyzes the tactics used to transform people and items into symbols of prominence within MAGA Nation, setting the stage for possible upcoming disputes.

Advocates of Christian nationalism are expected to persist in their efforts to create communities governed by theocratic principles, particularly as they move to regions like the "American Redoubt," potentially leading to conflicts with the tenets of democracy.

Onishi argues that there is a deliberate effort to downplay the role Christian nationalism played in the January 6th events and to recast the narrative of what transpired, thus preserving the movement's influence and paving the way for future clashes. The book reveals how political leaders, right-wing pundits, and some clerics endeavored to portray the turmoil as peaceful, labeling the hostility as the work of "antifa" and portraying the detained protesters as victims of a biased judicial system.

Onishi examines the trend of White Christian conservatives migrating to regions like the "American Redoubt," motivated by the belief that the United States is on the brink of a major societal and political collapse. He argues that the establishment of these insular communities signifies not merely a withdrawal from liberal ideologies but also a proactive effort to create enclaves that uphold their version of a society governed by the tenets of white Christianity. The author suggests that the movement's goal is to deliberately weaken the pillars of a pluralistic democracy, thereby establishing a regime governed by Christian nationalist ideals, free from the influence of diversity and democratic customs.

Practical Tips

• Engage in local governance by attending town hall meetings or city council sessions. Listen actively to the discussions and proposals, especially those that may hint at theocratic influences. This direct involvement gives you a clearer picture of how community decisions are made and allows you to voice concerns or support for maintaining democratic values.
• Develop a habit of engaging with diverse news sources to gain a broader perspective on political events. Make a list of news outlets that span the political spectrum and commit to reading articles from each about the same event. This will expose you to different viewpoints and reduce the risk of falling into echo chambers that may skew your perception of events like the January 6th turmoil.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR to enhance your preparedness for emergencies. By acquiring these skills through a local community course, you not only prepare yourself for unexpected situations but also become a valuable resource to others in times of need. This aligns with the mindset of being ready for societal shifts, as you're equipped to handle health emergencies independently.
• You can foster a culture of inclusivity by starting a book club focused on diverse authors and themes. Choose a variety of books written by authors from different backgrounds and with different perspectives. This encourages empathy and understanding of pluralistic values among your friends and family. For example, if you read a novel by a Nigerian author one month, consider a memoir by a Korean activist the next.