"America, why do people in your country put the American flag everywhere?" Japan asked as they walked down the streets of San Diego. Japan was wearing shorts, a very light T-shirt, and sandals. He also was fanning himself like crazy as he tried not to pass out from the heat. "And how in the world are you able to wear jeans in this weather?"
"I'm used to this kind of weather." America said with a grin. "As for the flags, my citizens are very proud people. So they hang a flag to show their patriotism."
"But I also see your people wearing flags on their shirts, their pants, and even on their shoes." Japan said as he pointed at a few people nearby who were wearing Captain America shirts.
"That is the Shield of Captain America, one of the coolest superheroes ever." America pointed out.
"And the shield was made with the pattern of your flag." Japan said.
"Of course Captain America's shield is going to have the colors of the flag on it." America said in amusement.
"Please just answer the question." Japan said with a sigh.
"Well, my country by definition a nation state." America said thoughtfully. "Unlike the countries of Europe, I was not founded on one idea, religion, or even by one group of people. I was founded by many different people, from many different countries, with different religions and ideas. I am a nation founded by immigration."
"How does that have anything to do with flags everywhere?" Japan asked as he leaned against the wall of a building, happy to get in the shade.
"I'm getting there." America said. "You were born in Japan, you live in Japan, and you speak Japanese."
"Of course." Japan said.
"And it's like that for most of your citizens." America said. "My people are totally different. Their parents could have moved here from Asia, but they would grow up speaking English, and proudly say they were American citizens. In other words, my people are so proud because they all are different, but are able to get along together. So they wave the flag to say that they are proud to be different, and be able to call themselves an American."
"I see." Japan said. "Is that the only reason?"
"No, they also do it because they can." America said shrugging his shoulders.
"Americans are so weird." Japan said in exasperation.
A/N: We Americans love our flags.