Essay Sample on America's Identity: The Development of a Revolutionary System

Introduction

Identity is an essential aspect of the entire American culture. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, there was a development of a uniquely American identity that involved an ideal system of revolution. There was an adaptation of a representative political system where people were allowed to participate in decision making, thus practicing their democratic principles and rights. The creation of a favorable atmosphere with new political ideas gave American identity a sense of uniqueness different from their European roots (Arblaster, 2008). Religion and philosophy influenced greatly in developing revolutions which geared the sense of identity. Both religion and philosophy played a crucial role in developing a sense of belonging to the people of America hence distinctiveness.

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The hiatus in the identity development of the United States did not happen immediately after the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The colonial phase geared the process of achieving a unique way of life for Americans. Nevertheless, developing an independent political rule became more concrete hence provoking the quest to create a distinctive national identity. This illustrates the reason behind the interest by most of the historians in following the American Revolution journey (Arblaster, 2008).

The 19th century is a critical phase in the development of American cultural history since, during this era, there was a significant milestone in political, economic, and social stability. According to Henry F. May, the distinct American culture was achieved its shape during this period (Morgan & Hutson, 2000). American Revolt led to a catastrophe of identification where people struggled to acquire status in society for recognition and power.

During this period, the philosophical regime of America's intellectual achievements acquired a different character from other European countries. People's minds were excited by various applied science ideologies looking to their problems in a more practical perspective hence developing long term solutions to them. The scientific approach was also involved in solving civil society problems, but colonial America emphasis had remained more technological than politics (Arblaster, 2008).

An article by Samuel Huntington in 1981 argued that, by 1776, American politics had gradually developed. This took a different path from that of Great Britain, where most of the American philosophers debated against the unlawful taxes imposed on its colonies (Morgan & Hutson, 2000). However, this did not explain the extent to which the philosophers pushed the American identity to appear different from that of the British. Also, the article argued that this identity acted like a seed planted on the battle against Britain's regime at some point. The American identity advocated for the various elements of revolution, such as women's roles and language, which later received recognition (Arblaster, 2008).

American nationalism and identity were shaped by various factors, as identified by Russel Blaine, an American professor who pioneered cultural theory. First, Blaine stated four essential elements that provided a basis that evaluated a distinctive American cultural identity. His ideas were published in two significant works on American culture and society. Blaine's system was based on a temporal dimension that represented the first two factors of consideration (Morgan & Hutson, 2000). In this stage, leaders were assumed to understand the past ideologies relating to American history.

The attitude towards the future was identified as the second factor illustrated by Blaine. It brought about the emergence of a unique Americanism, which was clearly understood. The Americans' perspective on the future is assumed to be superior to other nations based on modern industrialization and improved living standards.

Religion played an essential role in developing American identity as well. This was achieved through continued moral support to Americans from various religious leaders and ministers, which helped in opposing the British rule over the states. Several prominent in the religion participated in the revolution process in multiple capacities such as members of state legislatures, military chaplains, and penmen for the commission of correspondence. In some cases, religious leaders took part in troops using arms on the battlefield. Despite flourishing in the struggle to attain American identity, some denominations were destroyed as a result. For instance, the Church of England suffered, splitting were some ministers supported the king by oath, and others followed the traditional ideologies.

The war against Britain would see America attain revolution; hence national identity was argued by the clergy as divine and ordained by God. This effort to achieve American status was supported by Abraham Keteltas in his sermon about the American war of liberation against the British armed rule and measures in 1777 (Hertzke, Olson, Dulk & Fowler 2018). The sermon stated that "the cause of truth, against error and falsehood . . . the cause of pure and undefiled religion, against bigotry, superstition, and human invention." Therefore the religion at large played a significant role in creating a uniquely American identity.

However, some religious leaders strongly opposed the revolution process. For instance, Joseph Galloway, a Pennsylvania Assembly former minister, was against the revolution and later fled to England in 1778. According to Galloway, revolution caused religious misunderstanding and quarrels to a large degree. This was as a result of diversity in the principles of religion was the Presbyterians and Congregationalists were opposed to the Government. On the other hand, Jonathan Mayhew reflected on the Church of England as a diabolical rival to the revolution milestone of England (Morgan & Hutson, 2000).

In addition to the political liberation, the American Revolution and identity had an impact on the religion and American social society as well. The American exceptionalism has developed into a more dubious that modern society has become more sarcastic. In terms of religion, Americans are deeply rooted as well as the most secular state in the world, thus raising the question about religious conflictt. The secular concept has grown gradually as a result of continued revolution and modernization. In this case, the quest to attain national identity has led to corrupt of social morals advocated by the religious leaders (Thompson, 2019). The uniqueness in their identity has synthesized the concept of worship and quest for wealth, which contradicts social morals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the American Revolution impacted significantly in achieving a unique identity. However, there was a massive division of colonists as much as it unified them in joining the British military besides the revolutionaries. Britain convinced most of its slaves to join her forces to gain freedom in return, which was opposed by the southern revolutionaries, including America. This led to a war, which liberated the Americans from British rule hence providing more opportunities for and challenges as well. This identity has developed an outstanding cultural belief that is unique. It defines people's origin and their milestones, a sense of belonging, self-acceptance, thus appreciating their individuality and molding their character.

References

Arblaster, A. (2008). Unity, identity, difference: Some thoughts on national identity and social unity. Journal Of Ethnic And Migration Studies, 21(2), 195-206. doi: 10.1080/1369183x.1995.9976484

Hertzke, A. D., Olson, L. R., Den Dulk, K. R., & Fowler, R. B. (2018). Religion and politics in America: faith, culture, and strategic choices. Routledge.

Morgan, M., & Hutson, J. (2000). Religion and the Founding of the American Republic. The New England Quarterly, 72(2), 320. doi: 10.2307/366880

Thompson, D. (2019). Three Decades Ago, America Lost Its Religion. Why?. Retrieved 31 January 2020, from https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/09/atheism-fastest-growing-religion-us/598843/