-
Christopher Columbus established the American identity in a negative aspect by colonizing America in a way that resulted in the oppression, exploitation, and mistreatment of the native Americans that were there first. His actions set a new norm for European colonization in the worst way possible, allowing for very poor treatment of non-white groups something which will come up more than once in American history. -
The signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 added to the positive aspects of the American identity by affirming American values of individual rights and democracy. It showed that the United States is a nation of liberty and equality. Separating itself from Britain and becoming the democratic superpower it is today. -
Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist who escaped slavery and was a big advocate of freeing the slaves and human rights. His work was one of the prominent things that helped to the emancipation of slavery. He exposed how brutal slavery was and also fought for the principles of freedom and equality. His impact on American Identity was a huge step in the same direction of the declaration of independence, individual rights. -
Manifest Destiny contributed to the American identity by keeping America on track as the land of opportunity. It was a movement that encouraged western expansion and new opportunities. Making America feel united and giving it a national purpose. This movement was important in devolving American character and fueling aspirations for growth and progress -
The Emancipation Proclamation was a statement that slavery was over adding equality to the American identity. It was a bold statement that was a move towards the equality shown in the declaration of independence. Along with freeing the slaves, emancipation reshaped the American identity for the better breathing life to the values of liberty and civil rights.