Shocking Exposé: 21 Harsh Realities About the USA That Nobody Wants to Admit – Is America Really the Best?

by Victoria Richards

America is a great country in many ways, but there are 21 uncomfortable truths that citizens need to accept. We look at the terrible things about the US that need to be taken.

Debt Culture

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Americans think nothing of putting expensive items on their credit card, and debt culture is prominent in the country. Loans and credit cards are the norm in the US, with only some people saving up until they can afford expensive items or vacations.

Vacation Policies

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Vacation time is not guaranteed in the US, or at least paid time off is not a thing. Workers’ rights are different from what they are in many other countries worldwide, meaning less time off for vacations.

Poutine

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Canadians cannot understand why Americans have not fallen in love with their native cuisine. The lure of french fries, cheese curd, and gravy has not made its way to the US favorably, and Canada cannot forgive Americans for it.

Cheerleader and Mascots

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Mascots and cheerleaders are a staple of American high school and college life, but the rest of the world cannot quite get their heads around it. While some see it as a bit of fun, others take it far too seriously in some people’s eyes.

Education Inequality

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The US is severely divided regarding education, as only some get the chance to receive a good one. There are some states where children have to drop out way ahead of graduation and others with the best education in the country for those who can afford it.

Zero-Tolerance Culture

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Americans believe they have the absolute right to power over themselves and their possessions. This belief can lead to a zero-tolerance culture that can end in tragedy as citizens defend themselves and their property, for example, shooting a trespasser.

Tipping

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Do you find tipping expected at the most random of places these days? A perplexed user expressed their difficulty in accepting the American culture of having to tip almost everywhere. While they understand that tipping makes sense in certain places, they feel it has become an unwritten rule in the most unexpected places.

Worshiping Politicians

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American citizens worship their politicians, often treating them as gods. Waving flags and pledging allegiance show dedication not replicated in other countries.

Cultural Appropriation

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In the US, there is a fine line between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation, with many Latin citizens and citizens of other cultures suffering amidst the blurred lines.

Tax Systems

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People need clarification on how intricate the US tax system is. Tax is not included in the display prices, so it can be straightforward for tourists when shopping in America.

Health Insurance System

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Getting healthcare insurance in the US is not straightforward, with many people having to fork out a lot of money for private insurance if their employer does not cover their health insurance. With varying covers, some people are left short when they become ill.

Age Restrictions

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In America, you can drive if you are 16 and can also handle guns, join the military, and go. You can do all this when you are 16, yet you can’t drink alcohol until you turn 21, something other countries find bizarre.

Low Wages

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Low wages are typical in America, with employees working for years without a pay rise. Some people work below minimum wage and rely heavily on tips.

Health Care Inconsistencies

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If people thought the US tax system was confusing, the healthcare system would blow their minds. American healthcare is costly, with the cost of some procedures eye-watering. There is inequality in who can access healthcare, something people do not need to worry about in other countries.

Treatment of Poor People

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The US has a massive divide between the rich and the poor, which is difficult for other countries to watch. Of course, poor people suffer from inequality in most countries, but the gap in the US seems much more significant.

Poor Maternal Care

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With healthcare being poor for many in the US due to the complex insurance system, it is unsurprising that women experience unequal maternity care. Around the world, women can look forward to a good experience of being pregnant and getting excellent aftercare, but in the US, care is mixed, and maternity pay is non-existent for some women.

Workplace Inequalities

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Americans strive for equality in the workplace, but the race to get a good employer means that some people miss out on good benefits and pay.

The Charity Sector

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There is suspicion that many companies will do charity drives to get a tax break rather than genuinely wanting to help those less fortunate.

Gaps in Bathroom Stalls

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People worldwide are conscious when they go to a bathroom in the US as they have considerable gaps in the stall doors. Anybody could peek under the door, so such a gap leaves people scratching their heads.

Lobbying

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Some believe the American lobbying system to be nothing more than “legalized bribery,” as it is so prevalent in the political system. It does happen in other countries, but it seems more profound in the US.

Portion Sizes

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With an ever-increasing obesity crisis, America needs to face up to its restaurant culture. Most food establishments serve overly large portions, with any leftovers taken to be eaten the next day. This culture leads to many weight and overall well-being issues for many Americans.

21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men

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Class wars creep up in all aspects of life, including dating. We take a look at the things that men believe are telltale signs that you are lower class.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men

Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand

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The change in the automotive industry has been incredible over the year. Baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 can’t get enough of the cars listed below, as muscle cars emerged in the 1960s, and new technologies appeared in the 1970s and 1980s. You can imagine why boomers genuinely appreciate these vehicles.
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand

Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach

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There is a lot to love about America, from the bright lights of New York to the incredible breakfasts, but foreigners also dislike many things. We look at everything from poor public transport to an intimidating tip culture, sharing 18 things that America could be better at.
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach

Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With

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While some old habits die hard, there are some things that Gen X need to eliminate as they are no longer relevant.
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With

18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip

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When thinking of America, we don’t expect there to be boring or unpleasant places to visit. We see all the different states on the TV, and they show the best parts. However, there are some states you won’t want to visit, and you should brace yourselves if you ever happen to stumble into them.
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip

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