I understand, to a small extent, and thanks for the explanation.
To understand conservative Americans a little more, one might look for a speck of the anti-materialistic principles (but not enough, IMO) in us, of those who opposed Charles I in the 1600s. ..."liberal" in the older sense (i.e., not socialist). ...this, despite what Hollywood portrays in generalization of us all. Generally, we are immoral in many ways but maybe more moral than many would expect in other ways.
I very much hope that the Iraqis continue a great and independent government that they will enjoy. And it is a near certainty, given the history of trade regarding the USA to date, that we will not take more from them than we will give or exercise any control over Iraq's leaders by threat of force, overt or covert. Germany is an example, as most Germans show animosity against us, yet we do not exercise any control over their government leaders to change that. Canada is another example. We even continue a trade deficit with Canada despite so much contempt for us there.
I'd like to say you were wrong about the prevailing majority sentiment in Canada in regards to the US, but I've seen it too often myself. It's a festering problem in Canada brought on by our fears of being overwhelmed and feelings of inferiority that we must deal with.
On the subject of the trade deficit between our countries, I wonder how much of that is made up by necessary imports by the US of electricity, gas and oil? Certainly Canada is one of the biggest consumers of American products of all types, as a look around any Canadian home would reveal. Since the FTA even many Canadian brands and company names with a long history in this country have been bought up or merged with US corporations. Although sometimes a little sad to see the passing of an era, I don't really mind this - I think the FTA has been good for both of our countries.