Merica was, categorically—though certainly not ontologically—property. In Richard Davis’s will, Merica was one of 11 slaves “lent” or “given” to his children.

Dan Merica is co-anchor of the Post's flagship political newsletter, Early Brief. He joined the Post in 2025. He previously covered campaigns, politics, and all levers of power in Washington, D.C ...

Merica is a genus of sea snails and that is not at issue. What’s at issue are such slogans as: ‘Merica, established 1776, Undefeated 2-Time World War Champs. ...