Essential Facts About the United States: History, Regions, and Civics
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Foundations of the United States
A long time ago, many people from the U.K. decided to travel by boat (the Mayflower) to a new land to settle. This new land belonged to Great Britain, and the British King George III ruled both lands. Thirteen colonies were formed there.
Eventually, some colonists sought independence, refusing to remain under the rule of the King of England. Many Patriots decided to fight for freedom, initiating the conflict against the powerful British army.
The Birth of a Nation
- Declaration of Independence: After the war began, Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence in June 1776. It was discussed and approved by delegates meeting at Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
- Revolutionary War: The war, which was cruel and costly, ended in 1783. The land the Patriots fought for finally achieved independence from Britain, establishing the new country: The United States of America.
- The U.S. Constitution: The Constitution, which defines how the government works, was written and signed on September 17, 1787. Key signers included George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams.
Famous U.S. Presidents
- General George Washington: The 1st U.S. President.
- John Adams: The 2nd U.S. President. Washington D.C. was declared the capital city during his presidency.
- Abraham Lincoln: The 16th U.S. President. He led the nation through the Civil War, ended slavery, and passed the 13th Amendment.
- Barack Obama: The 44th U.S. President, and the first African-American president of the U.S.A.
Characteristics of U.S. Regions
The USA is composed of four major regions: the West, the Midwest, the Northeast, and the South. Americans often speak of their country in terms of these large cultural units, which are shaped by history, geography, economics, literature, and shared folkways, rather than governmental boundaries.
A region’s multicultural heritage and distinct demographic characteristics (such as age and occupation) contribute to its unique identity. Differences in language usage, strong dialects, and variations in outlook and attitude are often based on geography.
The Four Major U.S. Regions
The West
Native Americans still reside in reservations or towns throughout the West. This region is known for its abundant natural beauty and numerous national parks. The coast of California is heavily populated by settlers.
The Midwest
Known for its fertile soil, the Midwest is characterized by abundant cereal crops. Farmers are typically located separately from each other, traveling to villages primarily to buy supplies or attend church.
The Northeast
The Northeast is the booming financial and economic center of the U.S. It features major urban centers, such as New York City, where the Stock Exchange serves as a hub for business and investors.
The South
Historically the most distinctive region, the South once accepted slavery. Nowadays, it is a major manufacturing region featuring modern high-rise buildings.
Pluralism and Ethnic Diversity in the USA
Two fundamental facts define the United States: its immense size and its great ethnic diversity. Ethnic diversity is arguably the most important factor influencing life in the USA.
Early settlers included those from Spain, followed later by immigrants from Northern Europe, who established the dominant culture. Over time, immigrants arrived from various countries, including China, Japan, and Eastern and Southern Europe. Gradually, these groups integrated into the broader society.
Melting Pot vs. Cultural Pluralism
- The Melting Pot: This term is often used to describe the mixing of different races and cultures in the USA, suggesting assimilation into a single culture.
- Cultural Pluralism: This principle asserts that different cultures can live together peacefully while maintaining their distinct identities.
Although the dominant culture originating from Northern Europe has persisted, new waves of immigration have continually altered and enriched it. While many people in the U.S. maintain their ethnic heritage, the number of interracial marriages continues to increase, reflecting ongoing societal integration.
The U.S. Education System
The U.S. education system typically involves five main stages:
Prekindergarten (Pre-K)
Often includes two courses, generally for children aged 4 to 6. Students begin learning general concepts, including the alphabet.
Kindergarten
Typically for children aged 5 to 6. Students continue learning the alphabet and focus on early literacy skills and diction.
Elementary School
Covers 1st through 5th grade, usually for children aged 8 to 12. Core subjects include vocabulary, mathematics, science, and phonics.
Middle School
Covers 6th through 8th grade, typically for children aged 12 to 14. Students encounter more high-level tests and require good marks to select a suitable High School path.
High School
Generally for students aged 16 to 18. High schools are predominantly public, which are free and typically do not require uniforms.
Types of High Schools
- Private Catholic Schools: These are often expensive, require uniforms, have smaller buildings, and tend to be stricter.
- Private or Boarding Schools: These schools often feature smaller campuses where students reside (sleep there) instead of commuting daily.
U.S. Government Structure: Three Branches
The U.S. government operates under a system of separation of powers, divided into three distinct branches, each with specific responsibilities and powers of checks and balances.
The Legislative Branch (Congress)
Consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Their primary responsibility is to propose and pass laws.
Checks and Balances Power:
- Refusing to approve presidential appointments.
- Overriding a presidential veto.
The Executive Branch
Consists of the President, the Vice President, the Cabinet, the Executive Departments, and independent agencies. Their primary responsibility is to enforce laws and appoint Supreme Court Justices.
Checks and Balances Power:
- Rejecting (vetoing) any law passed by Congress.
The Judicial Branch
Consists of the Supreme Court, 11 Circuit Courts of Appeals, and 94 District Courts. Their primary responsibility is to explain and interpret laws, and make decisions in lawsuits.
Checks and Balances Power:
- Declaring laws and executive actions unconstitutional (Judicial Review).
National Symbols and Holidays
Independence Day
Celebrated on July 4th, commemorating the date in 1776 when the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, claiming the U.S.A.'s freedom from Britain. Celebrations typically involve picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings.
Memorial Day
Originally called Decoration Day, this holiday is observed on the last Monday of May. It is a solemn day of remembrance for those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Veterans Day
Observed on November 11th, the anniversary of the end of World War I. Initially named Armistice Day, it was changed to Veterans Day to honor all U.S. veterans.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
A national holiday held on the third Monday of January. Established in 1983 by Congress to commemorate Dr. King and his pivotal actions against racism and for civil rights for African-American people.
Columbus Day
President Roosevelt proclaimed October 12th as "Columbus Day" in 1937, and President Nixon declared the second Monday of October a national holiday in 1971. The first recorded celebration honoring the discovery of America took place on October 12, 1792, in New York City.
Thanksgiving Day
A holiday rooted in the Pilgrims' celebration of survival. They celebrated having built homes in the wilderness, raised enough crops to sustain them through the coming winter, and achieved peace with their Native American neighbors.
Native American Day
In 1914, Red Fox James, a Blackfoot from Montana, traveled 4,000 miles soliciting aid from governors for a holiday honoring American Indians. He presented his proposal in Washington D.C. on December 14, 1914, where it was adopted by 24 states.