Early American Culture

Definition

Early American Culture refers to the diverse social, religious, and artistic traditions that developed in the colonies before the American Revolution. This culture was heavily influenced by European traditions, Native American practices, and the unique circumstances of colonial life, creating a rich tapestry of customs and beliefs that defined the early American identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Early American Culture was characterized by a blend of European traditions brought by settlers from various countries, including England, France, and Spain.
2. The influence of Native American customs and practices played a crucial role in shaping food, agriculture, and community life in colonial America.
3. The establishment of educational institutions like Harvard College in 1636 reflected the high value placed on literacy and education within Puritan culture.
4. Religious diversity was prominent, with various denominations coexisting in the colonies, leading to a dynamic spiritual environment that fostered individualism.
5. The development of American literature began during this time, with works by authors like Anne Bradstreet and Jonathan Edwards highlighting both colonial life and spiritual themes.

Review Questions

• How did early American culture reflect a combination of different influences from Europe and Native American societies?
  • Early American culture was a melting pot of influences, blending European traditions brought by settlers with Native American customs. For instance, agricultural practices were often adapted from Native Americans, while religious beliefs varied among different European groups. This fusion created a unique cultural identity that was neither entirely European nor Indigenous but rather a new amalgamation that laid the foundation for what would become American culture.
• In what ways did Puritanism shape early American social norms and values?
  • Puritanism significantly influenced early American social norms by promoting a strict moral code centered around hard work, piety, and community responsibility. These values were reflected in daily life, including laws governing behavior and community practices. The Puritan emphasis on education also led to an increase in literacy rates, allowing for the spread of religious texts and ideas that further solidified their cultural impact.
• Evaluate the impact of the Great Awakening on early American society and its role in shaping national identity.
  • The Great Awakening had a profound impact on early American society by promoting individual religious experiences over established church doctrine. This movement encouraged a sense of personal agency among colonists, fostering ideas of equality and questioning traditional authority. As people from diverse backgrounds came together in revival meetings, it laid the groundwork for a collective national identity rooted in shared beliefs about freedom and personal rights, which would later influence revolutionary sentiments.

Related terms

Puritanism:

A religious reform movement that arose within the Church of England, emphasizing simplicity in worship and a strict moral code, significantly impacting early American values and social norms.

Colonial Art: The artistic expressions of the early American settlers, which included portrait painting, folk art, and decorative arts reflecting both European influences and local themes.

Great Awakening:

A series of religious revivals in the 18th century that emphasized personal faith and emotional connection to religion, shaping the spiritual landscape of early America.