European cultural practice

Definition

European cultural practices refer to the customs, traditions, beliefs, and artistic expressions that originated and developed in Europe. These practices significantly influenced interactions with Native Americans and Africans, shaping social norms, trade relationships, and forms of governance during the age of exploration and colonization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. European cultural practices included language, religion (especially Christianity), art forms like painting and music, as well as social customs that influenced interactions with Native American and African societies.
2. The spread of European cultural practices often resulted in the suppression of indigenous cultures, leading to significant social changes for Native Americans and Africans.
3. Missionary efforts by Europeans aimed at converting indigenous populations to Christianity were a key aspect of the cultural practices that shaped social dynamics in colonized regions.
4. Trade routes established by Europeans facilitated not only economic exchange but also the sharing of cultural practices, leading to hybrid forms of art and cuisine.
5. European cultural practices were often justified through notions of superiority, which contributed to the establishment of racial hierarchies during colonization.

Review Questions

• How did European cultural practices influence social structures among Native Americans and Africans during the age of exploration?
  • European cultural practices had a profound impact on the social structures of Native Americans and Africans. The introduction of European languages, religions, and social customs often disrupted traditional ways of life. For instance, European concepts of land ownership conflicted with indigenous views, leading to changes in land use and social organization. Additionally, missionary activities aimed at converting indigenous populations created new social dynamics that sometimes undermined existing power structures.
• Discuss the role of trade in the exchange of European cultural practices with Native Americans and Africans.
  • Trade played a critical role in the exchange of European cultural practices with Native Americans and Africans. As Europeans established trade networks, they introduced their goods, languages, and customs into these societies. This exchange resulted in a blending of cultures where indigenous people adopted certain European items while also influencing European trade goods with local styles. The intermingling of cultures through trade contributed to the development of unique hybrid forms of art, cuisine, and social customs.
• Evaluate how European cultural practices contributed to the justification of colonialism and its impacts on indigenous populations.
  • European cultural practices provided a framework for justifying colonialism through notions of cultural superiority and civilization. Europeans often viewed their customs as more advanced compared to those of Native Americans and Africans. This belief system was used to legitimize the subjugation and assimilation efforts imposed upon indigenous populations. The impacts were profound: not only were many traditional practices suppressed or eradicated, but this also led to long-lasting socio-economic inequalities that have persisted even into contemporary society.

Related terms

Colonialism:

The policy of acquiring political control over another country or territory, often involving the exploitation of resources and imposition of cultural practices.

Cultural Exchange:

The process by which different cultures share ideas, values, and practices, leading to mutual influence and transformation.

Renaissance: A cultural movement in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century characterized by a revival of art, literature, and learning inspired by classical antiquity.