Image of a Native American man
Image of an African lady
Image of a German man
picture of an Irish man
Image of an Scandinavian lady
Image of an Italian lady
Image of a Japanese boy
Image of a Mexican woman
Image of a Chinese boy
Image of a Cuban man
Image of a Polish man
Picture of clock - click to view global immigration timeline
Immigration Conclusion
Image of US map - piece 1 Home Immigration Introduction Vocabulary Potluck Interviews Resources Conclusion
Image of US map - piece 2

Long before immigrants from other nations arrived on its shores, Native Americans called the North American continent their home. Today, the majority of Americans trace their family origins to a country other than the United States. Many of our forebears came to this country seeking greater freedom or an opportunity for a better life. Some of us can trace our roots to ancestors who came against their will and were forced to provide the labor that helped build the nation. Whether they were the native inhabitants of this continent, or came from distant shores, the citizens of the United States brought to this nation a pride in their heritage, and distinctive cultural traditions and values.

The United States has been characterized as a "melting pot" in which each ingredient blends into a single dish. Likewise, the United States has been characterized as a "salad bowl" in which each ingredient reserves its own flavor and texture while contributing to the aggregate salad. Perhaps, President Jimmy Carter characterized the nature of the United States best ...
“We become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams.”

So who is an “American”? How do YOU define an "American"? Does the definition matter? Why? How does the


Spirit of the past
Edward S. Curtis's The North American Indian

great cultural diversity of our population influence the life of our nation? What common characteristics do citizens of the United States have and how does this commonality shape the nation? What are YOUR questions?



     
bla
  last updated 04/06/02 view basic version
  The Library of Congress | American Memory | The Learning Page Contact us    
Irish
Native American