Hold the freedom fries: I think a few modern-day American politicians should pick up this book, “112 Gripes about the French”, a FAQ for American GIs in post-WW2 France. It was published by the US government, to massage over misunderstandings and ill feelings the stationed soldiers felt for France.
Incredibly well-written retorts to common complaints, the book also offers this timeless advice: “Beware the people who do not criticize. Beware the country where criticism is verboten. Beware the country where men obey like sheep.”