I remember when I first when backpacking across Europe. (I'm American, by the way). This was around 2003 or 2004. I had this preconceived notion that Americans

I remember when I first when backpacking across Europe. (I'm American, by the way). This was around 2003 or 2004. I had this preconceived notion that Americans were generally idiotic, and Europeans were much more knowledgable in world affairs. What I came to realize was that they are just as retarded as we are, but have more access to distinct cultures/languages because of how small countries are over there. They don't realize that while we're all "Americans", there is a massive difference between in people from Miami, Houston, New York, and Boise. Just because we speak the same language and use the same currency doesn't make us all the same. As for the reputation of the States, I found there was a dislike of American politics, but not Americans in general. And jokes made about us are just that: jokes. We do the same about other countries, races, etc.