The Development of AMERICAN Culture [APUSH Review Unit 4 Topic 9] Period 4: 1800-1848

The Emergence of Distinct American Culture (1800-1848)

Transition from European Influence to American Identity

• The period from 1800 to 1848 marked the emergence of a distinct American culture, moving away from European influences in art, architecture, and philosophy.

• Enlightenment thought, which heavily influenced early American foundational documents, began to shift towards Romanticism, emphasizing emotion and human perfectibility.

Architectural Developments Reflecting Romanticism

• Architecture transitioned from British Georgian styles to Greek and Roman revival styles, symbolizing democracy and national identity. Notable examples include the Capitol Building in Washington D.C., characterized by its arches and dome.

• This architectural shift aimed to evoke emotional responses and reflect the ideals of Romanticism through grandeur and beauty.

Literature as a Reflection of American Values

• Early 19th-century Americans were influenced by British authors like Sir Walter Scott but soon developed their own literary voice with writers such as James Fenimore Cooper and Washington Irving. Cooper's "Last of the Mohicans" explored themes of opportunity in western lands while Irving's stories infused fantasy into America's landscape.

• Noah Webster’s publication of "American Dictionary of the English Language" in 1828 standardized American English spelling and pronunciation, contributing to a unique cultural identity despite not being traditional literature.

Artistic Expression Through the Hudson River School

• The Hudson River School artists portrayed dramatic landscapes that emphasized untouched nature while hinting at civilization's encroachment, reflecting Romantic sentiments over strict accuracy in representation.

Philosophical Movements: Transcendentalism

• Transcendentalism emerged as a significant philosophical movement rooted in Romantic ideals about nature's beauty and human potential for perfection; Ralph Waldo Emerson was a key figure promoting individualism and self-reliance.

• Henry David Thoreau embodied these beliefs through his experiment living simply at Walden Pond, documenting his reflections on life’s truths in his famous book "Walden." This movement also inspired various utopian communities seeking ideal social structures.

Utopian Communities: Shakers & Oneida Community

• The Shakers established a community based on shared property but struggled with population growth due to their celibate lifestyle; they eventually dwindled due to lack of new members.

• The Oneida Community promoted radical equality across social structures including marriage; despite controversy surrounding their practices, they achieved financial stability through silverware production.

This summary encapsulates key developments within early American culture during the specified period while linking back to specific timestamps for further exploration or review.