American Culture: The Big Idea
As the United States grew, developments in various cultural areas contributed to the creation of a new American identity.
Main Ideas
- American writers created a new style of literature.
- A new style of art showcased the beauty of America and its people.
- American ideals influenced other aspects of culture, including religion and music.
- Architecture and education were affected by cultural ideals.
Key Terms and People
- Washington Irving
- James Fenimore Cooper
- Hudson River School
- Thomas Cole
- George Caleb Bingham
American Writers
- American writers expressed thoughts and feelings in literature and art, inspired by American history and landscape.
- Washington Irving: First American writer to gain international fame, known for his satirical works like "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
- Combined European influences with American settings.
- James Fenimore Cooper: Focused on the West and Native Americans, known for "The Spy" and the "Leatherstocking Tales" featuring Natty Bumppo.
- Popularized historical fiction by placing fictional characters in real historical settings.
- Catharine Maria Sedgwick: Known for writing about interesting heroines in historical fiction.
A New Style of Art
- Inspired by writers, American artists began painting landscapes highlighting America's history and beauty.
- Hudson River School: Emerged in the 1830s, focused on landscapes of the Hudson River valley, reflecting national pride.
- Thomas Cole: Founder of the Hudson River School, encouraged portrayal of nature's beauty.
- John James Audubon: Known for "The Birds of America."
- George Caleb Bingham and Alfred Jacob Miller: Painted scenes of the American frontier.
Religion and Music
- Several waves of religious revivalism emphasized spiritual comfort, included large sing-alongs and spirituals.
- Spirituals combined white and African American folk traditions, developed from Bible call and response.
- Popular folk songs, like "Hunters of Kentucky," celebrated nationalism and were used politically.
Architecture and Education
- Post-Revolution architecture modeled after ancient Greece and Rome, admired for their democratic ideals.
- Thomas Jefferson promoted Greco-Roman styles, influencing American cityscapes.
- Education evolved with a push for state-funded public schools.
- Noah Webster worked to provide an American education, publishing works like "The American Spelling Book."
- Massachusetts established a state board of education in 1837, leading to more public schools.
Lesson Assessment
- American Writers
- Topics: Frontier life, American history
- Importance of Irving: Pioneered American literature style
- American Painters
- Influence of Thomas Cole: Encouraged landscape painting
- Change in Styles: From portraits to landscapes and daily life
- Music and Revivalism
- Effect on Music: Inspired spirituals and folk songs
- Popularity of Songs: Nationalism and political use
- Architecture and Education
- Modeling on History: Greco-Roman inspiration for democracy ideals
- Interest in Education: Led to public school development
Critical Thinking
- The push for new architectural styles and education stemmed from a desire to reflect democratic ideals and ensure an informed citizenry.
Summary
As the United States grew, so did a unique national identity, influencing various cultural aspects such as literature, art, religion, music, architecture, and education.