. American vs.

European Cultural Development:

 European Focus: Steeped in tradition, with a strong emphasis on social hierarchy,

inherited wealth, and established cultural forms (art, literature, music) influenced by the
Church and aristocracy.
 American Focus: More individualistic and egalitarian, valuing self-reliance, innovation,
and social mobility. Cultural expression often reflected themes of revolution, nature, and
exploration.

Reasons for the Difference:

 Fresh Start: America lacked the established social structures and cultural baggage of
Europe, allowing for a more open and experimental approach.
 Immigrant Mix: People from various backgrounds brought diverse traditions, leading to
a cultural melting pot.
 Frontier Spirit: The challenges and opportunities of the new land fostered a pragmatic
and resourceful culture.

2. Emphasis on Science and Technology:

 Practical Needs: Colonists needed to survive and thrive in a new environment, leading
to a focus on practical skills, invention, and scientific understanding.
 Enlightenment Influence: The ideas of the Enlightenment, emphasizing reason and
scientific progress, resonated with the American ideals of self-improvement and
progress.

3. Famous Figures:

 Benjamin Rush: Physician, signer of the Declaration of Independence, advocate for

social reform.
 Benjamin Franklin: Polymath - scientist, inventor (lightning rod), writer, diplomat,
Founding Father.
 David Rittenhouse: Clockmaker, astronomer, mathematician, instrument maker.
 William Byrd II: Writer, planter, founder of Richmond, Virginia. Documented colonial life
and customs.
 Benjamin West: Painter, known for historical paintings. First American artist to achieve
international recognition.
 John Singleton Copley: Painter, famous for portraits of colonial figures.
 Gilbert Stuart: Painter, best known for portraits of George Washington.

4. American Intellectual Life:

 The College of William and Mary (1693): Considered the first major intellectual center
in America. Founded by James Blair, it focused on religious education but also included
philosophy, mathematics, and classics.

5. Most Important American Literary Contribution:

This is debatable, but strong contenders include:

 Founding Documents: The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the
Federalist Papers are seen as cornerstones of American political thought and
expressions of revolutionary ideals.
 American Renaissance (19th century): Works by authors like Emerson, Thoreau,
Melville, Hawthorne, and Whitman that explored American identity, nature, and the
human condition.

6. Popular Genres in Colonial Literature:

 Puritan Sermons: Religious writings focused on morals, sin, and redemption.

 Captivity Narratives: Accounts of colonists captured by Native Americans.
 Jeremiads: Public speeches or writings lamenting the moral decline of society.
 Histories: Accounts of exploration, settlement, and early American events.

7. Discouragement of Dramatic Arts:

 Puritan Influence: Puritans viewed theater as frivolous and potentially immoral.

 Lack of Established Theaters: Early America lacked the infrastructure and audience
base for a thriving theater scene.

8. Development of Visual and Performing Arts:

 Portraiture: Painting portraits was a popular way to commemorate individuals and

families. (Copley, Stuart)
 Silverwork and Furniture: Craftsmanship flourished in decorative arts.
 Music: Folk traditions emerged, blending European and African influences.

9. Public Education Pioneers:

 Massachusetts: Established the first tax-supported public schools in the 1640s.

10. Higher Learning Institutions:

 Harvard University (1636): Founded to train clergy, later broadened its curriculum.
 The College of William and Mary (1693): Focused on religious education but also
included other subjects.
 Yale University (1701): Originally a Puritan school, later became more secular.
 These institutions were originally for men only and primarily served the
wealthy. It was not uncommon for democratic societies to have limited access to
education in the 18th century.

11. Influence of the Church:

 Early Colleges: All three mentioned above were founded by religious denominations
and had a strong religious influence in the curriculum.
 Secularization Over Time: Over time, these institutions gradually became more
secular in their focus.