US History: Key Events and Cultural Insights
Spotlight on History
Discovery of America and Early English Voyages
The discovery of America occurred in 1492. Groups of people from England traveled to America and settled there, often due to religious persecution and dissatisfaction with King James’s laws. Regarding the voyages of English people, there were three primary expeditions:
- Columbus’s Voyage (1492): Funded by Spain, Columbus reached the Americas, initially landing in the Caribbean and later exploring parts of Mexico. Spanish settlers established themselves in the Southwest, in what is now California and Arizona.
- French Exploration: The French mapped the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River.
- English Colonization: The English arrived on the East Coast, establishing the thirteen colonies.
Three Important Events in US History
Independence from England
In 1776, Americans declared independence from England, initiating the Revolutionary War. The war lasted nine years, culminating in American freedom. George Washington became the first president of the US in 1789. In the 1850s, eleven states seceded, or left the Union.
The Civil War
The Civil War began in 1861. Many opponents of slavery, known as abolitionists, supported the Republican Party. Abraham Lincoln was elected president in 1860. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring slaves in Confederate states to be free. This proclamation was later solidified by the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865, which abolished slavery. Sadly, Lincoln was assassinated that same year. The Civil War ended in 1865.
The Great Depression
The Nineteenth Amendment granted women the right to vote. Congress gave Indigenous people the right to citizenship. However, the era was marked by severe economic hardship, with over 13 million people unemployed.
Native Americans
Meaning of Totems for Native Americans
Totems were sacred monuments shaped like various animals, representing different gods. These monuments served as protective amulets for Native American tribes.
The Wounded Knee Massacre
On December 29, 1890, the Wounded Knee Massacre occurred. Approximately 320 Sioux Indians, including 200 women and children, were killed by the US 7th Cavalry Regiment.
Coming to America
First Three European Nations in North America
The first three European nations to arrive in North America were Spain, France, and England. The Spanish settled in present-day California and Arizona. The French explored and mapped the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. The English established 13 colonies on the East Coast.
The Pilgrims
The Pilgrims were settlers of Plymouth Plantation, one of the earliest and most significant settlements in the US. They sought religious freedom and a more prosperous life. They came from Plymouth, England.
Gone with the Wind and Westward Ho!
Significance of “Gone with the Wind”
“Gone with the Wind,” a book by Margaret Mitchell published in 1936, resonated with Americans during the 1930s because it depicted the economic struggles of plantation owners during the Great Depression. Many women identified with Scarlett O’Hara, whose father lost his property due to the Civil War.
“Westward Ho!” and the First Explorers
“Westward Ho!” signifies the movement to the American West through a dangerous frontier. The first explorers were Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, commissioned by Thomas Jefferson. Following their expedition, many pioneers (European American and African American settlers) traveled west, seeking a better life. However, the journey was perilous, and many died.
New York – The Big Apple
Origin of “The Big Apple” Nickname
New York City is called “The Big Apple” due to sportswriter John Fitz Gerald, who popularized the term in the 1920s. In 1971, the nickname was officially adopted as part of a tourism campaign. It also referred to the prizes (“big apples”) awarded at race courses in and around New York City.
The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty represents the United States’ enduring dedication to freedom and democracy. It was a gift from France, symbolizing their alliance during the American Revolution. It was received on October 28, 1886, by President Grover Cleveland.
The Northeast & The South
The Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party was a political protest on December 16, 1773, in Boston. Patriot leader Samuel Adams, along with about 60 members of the Sons of Liberty, disguised themselves as Native Americans, boarded ships, and threw 342 chests of tea into the harbor.
First Congress Meeting in New York (1779)
At the first Congress meeting in New York in 1779, a debate arose regarding the location of the “Federal City.” Some favored a southern location, while others preferred the north. George Washington ultimately chose a site on the Potomac River. While Washington D.C. was being built, the capital temporarily moved to Philadelphia. When the Civil War began, the city was on the dividing line between pro-slavery and anti-slavery states.
Florida & California – The Golden State
California: “The Golden State”
California is known as “The Golden State” primarily due to the discovery of gold, which spurred its modern development. Other contributing factors include the state flower, the California poppy (copa de oro in Spanish), and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
Orlando: Citrus Fruit Center of Florida
Florida is second only to Brazil in global orange juice production, producing over 70% of the United States’ citrus supply. It is a major exporter to Canada, Japan, France, and the UK. The citrus industry generates nearly $9 billion per year for Florida’s economy. Orlando is well-known as the citrus fruit center.
The Northwest & The Southwest
The Southwest: Known For
The Southwestern United States is known for its arid deserts, red rock landscapes, and natural wonders like the Grand Canyon. Its diverse population has created a distinctive culture and history. Visitors can see Native American influences in art, museums, and historical sites. The region is also popular for extreme sports like hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
Washington: An Important State
Washington is considered an important state because it is the capital of the US, and the White House is located there. Washington also has a low-carbon energy system, a strong secondary education system, and a robust economy.
From the Mountains to the Prairies
Lake Michigan and Places to Visit
Michigan is sometimes called the Great Lakes State because it borders four of the Great Lakes: Michigan, Superior, Huron, and Erie. Michigan is known as the “Cereal Bowl of America,” producing more cereal than anywhere else in the world. Lansing is the capital, and Detroit is the largest city, known as the car capital of the world or Motown. Henry Ford pioneered car and truck production in Detroit, which is also the hometown of Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and Aretha Franklin.
Wyoming and Montana: Myth of the West and Women’s Rights
Wyoming and Montana maintain the “Myth of the West” with cowboys, horses, and buffaloes still present. Wyoming was the first state to grant women the right to vote and the first to elect a female governor.
Alaska – Hawaii – National Parks
Incorporation of Hawaii and Alaska
- Hawaii: British missionaries’ influence in Hawaii concerned the US, leading to a treaty of friendship. Hawaii became the fiftieth state on August 21, 1959.
- Alaska: The US purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7 million. Russia sold Alaska to weaken Great Britain, their main rival.
The National Park System
The National Park System in the USA aims to protect natural, cultural, and recreational resources. It comprises 423 parks, including National Historic Sites, National Monuments, National Seashores, and National Recreation Areas. Yellowstone is the oldest National Park.
Truth, Justice, and the American Way
Social Issues: Examples and Explanations
A social issue, also called a social problem, social illness, or social conflict, affects a considerable number of people within a society. Examples include:
- Poverty: A state where individuals lack financial resources for a minimum standard of living, often lacking proper housing, clean water, food, and medical care.
- Unemployment: Leads to financial problems, poverty, debt, family tensions, and crime. It increased during the Great Depression and has risen again due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Difference Between Personal Problems and Public Issues
Personal problems affect individuals and those around them (e.g., a family member’s suicide attempt). Public issues involve larger numbers of people. For an issue to become a social problem, an influential group must define it as such (e.g., Mothers Against Drunk Drivers).
I Have a Dream
Rights Called for in “I Have a Dream” Speech
Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered during the March on Washington, called for civil and economic rights, equality, freedom, and an end to racism in the United States. It protested racial discrimination and encouraged civil rights legislation.
Economic Problems of Black People in the US
Approximately 45% of Black males are unemployed, and over half of Black people in the US have incomes below the poverty level. Discrimination, lack of educational opportunities, and racism contribute to these economic disparities.
We the People
Common Problems Faced by Immigrants in the US
- Lack of English Proficiency: Hinders community connections.
- Barriers to Health Services: Fear of deportation and language barriers prevent access to healthcare.
- Lack of Documentation: Prevents homeownership, business ownership, and reduced work hours.
Five Reasons for Immigration to the US
- Better living conditions
- Better work opportunities
- Better education
- Escape from troubled countries
- Reunification with American spouses/families
- Pursuit of the American Dream
Of the People, By the People
Two Major Political Parties in the US
- Democratic Party: Founded in 1828 by Andrew Jackson. Historically opposed slavery and high tariffs.
- Republican Party: Founded in 1854. Abraham Lincoln was the first Republican president. Initially opposed the expansion of slavery and later advocated for laissez-faire capitalism, low taxes, and conservative social policies.
Three Main Powers of the United States
- Executive: Carries out and enforces laws (President, Vice President, Cabinet, etc.).
- Legislative: Makes laws, declares war, regulates commerce, and controls taxes (Congress: House and Senate).
- Judicial: Reviews and interprets laws (Court system, with the Supreme Court as the highest court).
In the Name of the Law
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement refers to the individuals and agencies responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public order, and ensuring public safety. This includes crime prevention, detection, investigation, and the apprehension of law violators.
Government Intervention in Gun Control
The National Rifle Association (NRA) holds significant influence in Congress, making it difficult for presidents to advocate for gun control. The NRA also contributes financially to organizations and campaigns.
In God We Trust
Purpose of “In God We Trust” on Coins
The phrase “In God We Trust” was placed on coins to support the North during the Civil War and reflect increased religious sentiment. It was intended to invoke divine protection. Congress adopted the phrase on paper currency on October 1, 1957, and later on coins.
Televangelist
Televangelism refers to evangelism through religious programs on television. It involves using media, particularly radio and television, to communicate religious topics. These programs are often hosted by fundamentalist Protestant ministers who conduct services and solicit donations.