What is an American summary?

While "American summary" is not a widely recognized formal term or a specific type of summary, if understood as a summary describing "what an American is," a foundational historical perspective emerged in the late 18th century. This influential definition highlighted specific characteristics and opportunities that shaped the identity of individuals in the burgeoning nation.

Defining the American Identity in the 18th Century

In 1782, an author in his widely recognized work, Letters from an American Farmer, offered a significant perspective on what constituted an American. This early definition was crucial in shaping the understanding of American identity during a formative period.

Key Elements of an American, Historically Defined

The description from this period painted an American as essentially a new individual, transformed by the opportunities of the American continent. Key attributes emphasized in this definition included:

• European Ancestry: An American was primarily described as a descendant of Europeans, suggesting a synthesis of various European nationalities and cultures in the new world.
• Core Virtues: Success and integration into American society were tied to personal character, requiring individuals to be honest, sober, and industrious. These traits were seen as essential for contributing to and thriving in the developing nation.
• Land of Opportunity: The individual was expected to prosper in a welcoming land of opportunity. This highlighted America's promise as a place where hard work and virtuous living could lead to economic and social advancement.
• Freedom of Choice: A defining aspect was the choice of occupation and residence. This underscored a significant departure from older European societal structures, offering individuals unprecedented freedom to pursue their livelihoods and settle where they desired.

This historical conceptualization posited that the American identity was forged through adaptation to a new environment that rewarded diligence and offered extensive freedoms, thereby transforming individuals from diverse backgrounds into a unified new people. For more historical context on American identity and culture, explore resources from institutions like the Library of Congress.

Summary of Historical American Identity

To summarize this influential historical definition, here are its core components:

This definition provided a foundational understanding of who an American was perceived to be during the nation's early years, emphasizing a blend of character, opportunity, and newfound freedoms.