I still maintain that Americans can band together when necessary. More than that, while a subset of citizens dismiss opposing ideologies wholesale, I wouldn't consider it universal. If anything, I'd associate the behavior you're describing more with Sweden, etc.
I also still maintain that regardless of politics, unity over a common goal is universal.
I understand what you mean that things as they are, making sacrifices makes some things easier, but you and I both know that shouldn't happen. More than that, I feel such sacrifices should be a choice, rather than an obligation.
As for your statement on Western Europe being satisfied with their government, we'll have to agree to disagree on this one, since it's a polarizing issue, from what I've seen.
Now, your assertion that being incapable of seeing eye to eye across political viewpoints is exclusively an American issue is pure fucking bullshit, though.
@Hiro
Where the fuck do you live where 80 grand is lower middle class?