05USregionalismKM

Overview of the Lecture

• Part 1: American National Symbols (A selection)

• Part 2: Six cultural regions of the US and their iconic representations

Part 1: American Symbols

A. Introduction

• Agreeing on national symbols is essential for creating a national identity.

• National Identity:

  • Public image of an imagined community reflected symbolically (flag, anthem, rituals).

  • Represented in discourse through historical mythologies and popular cultural canon.

  • Supposedly shared identity transcending other dimensions like class and ethnicity.

B. American National Symbols

Selected Symbols:

• The US Flag:

  • 1st US flag sewn by Betsy Ross in 1776.

  • Adopted June 14, 1777 (Flag Day).

  • 1795 Flag: 15 stars and stripes for Vermont (14th state) and Kentucky (15th state).

  • Immortalized by Francis Scott Key's "The Star Spangled Banner" (1814).

  • National Anthem since 1931.

• The Great Seal:

  • Reflects Founding Fathers' beliefs, adopted June 1782.

  • Symbols include the shield (representing states) and the motto "E Pluribus Unum" (out of many, one).

• Uncle Sam:

  • Personification of US government, linked to army supply packages.

• The Statue of Liberty:

  • A symbol of welcome for immigrants, funded by Joseph Pulitzer's campaign.

  • Represents hope and new life for many immigrants arriving in the US.

Part 2: Cultural Regions of the US

Definition of a Cultural Region

• Cultural Region: A geographic area sharing similar traits and cultural orientation.

• Historical divisions include:

  • New-England, Mid-Atlantic, the South.

  • Other divisions: North/South, East/West.

Overview of American Cultural Regions

1. New England:

   • Early cultural and economic center, influential in politics and education.

   • Known for town meetings and quality universities (e.g., Harvard).

2. Mid-Atlantic:

   • Area of industry and melting pot of cultures, home to major cities (NY and Philadelphia).

3. Southeast:

   • Identity overshadowed by history of slavery and the Civil War.

   • Rich musical and literary heritage (e.g., Blues, country music).

4. Midwest:

   • Known as the "breadbasket" with significant agriculture.

   • Community-oriented culture with friendly and straightforward values.

5. Southwest:

   • Ethnically diverse due to strong Spanish-American and Native-American influence.

6. The West:

   • Sparse population known for scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

   • Cultural mix influenced by immigration and economic opportunity.

Conclusion

• Understanding national symbols and cultural regions is crucial for grasping American identity and heritage.