Essay about Individualism in American History - 1470 Words

The Struggle to Be Unique Do you stand alone as a unique and special individual? Since the beginning of American history there have been struggles for individualism. The American Revolution, the American Civil War, and the separation from family life are all examples of individualism in American history. Individualism is an American paradigm designed by the modern societal structure that is an altered idea of the foundation by immigrants. In today’s society the struggle for individualism is more personal and represents how American values have shifted since the beginning of American history. Individualism in today’s society is the â€Å"belief that each person is unique, special, and a ‘basic unit of nature’.† The individualism concept puts an†¦show more content†¦The Virginia colony, the New World’s first colony was established as a â€Å"joint-stock company† colony and was run by the â€Å"House of Burgesses†. The House of Burgesses was the first legislative body to exist in the United States. More colonies continued to be founded based on the need of â€Å"[t]rade and profits† for the country where the colonists originally came from (American Colonies). The trend of establishing colonies continued until 1733 when the Georgia colony was established. The colonies were a way for people to break away from England or other European countries. These people started new lifestyles where they could freely practice their own religions. They made a living for themselves with limited interference from the country of origination. During this time in England, the Church of England was being led by Calvinists. The group known as the Puritans were â€Å"continuing to press for reforms of the Church of England along Calvinist lines† (Wilson). The tension between the two groups led a group known as the Separatists, who disagreed with the Church of England, to leave England and find a better life for themselves and their family. The example of colonization emphasizes individualism. People acted on their unique beliefs by doing what they felt was best for themselves and by openly ignoring what society expected of them. Each individual tookShow MoreRelatedThe Origin of Individualism1684 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction, the origin of American Individualism can be traced back to the beginning years in its history, when first American immigrants came to the North American continent looking for better life and shaking off they yoke of European feudal tradition and the oppression from all kinds of powerful classes. It is determined that there were elements of Anti-oppression and searching for freedom in American people’s character. This was the original explanation of American Individualism. 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