The American Cultural Identity is one of individualism, creativity, and innovation rooted in a desire to live freely. The Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights all outline the importance of each citizen’s rights and protections under the law. During the earliest years of the United States, the Founding Fathers ensured that the country would defend freedom and that “all men are created equal.” Since these principles were established in 1776, America has developed into a nation where individuals are protected by the law and are allowed to voice their opinions, create art and music, invent new technologies, and openly celebrate unique cultures.
American’s desire to be free is one ideal that we have maintained …show more content…
African Americans were stolen from their homeland and sent to the Americas as slaves. Up until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865, African Americans were not free. During this period of slavery, many individuals sang songs with one another while working. These songs were often very rhythmic, repetitive, and in some cases a form of communication (https://www.thirteen.org/wnet/slavery/experience/education/feature.html) (https://www.sutori.com/story/slave-culture-music-7599). The music was a form of expressive freedom for many slaves. Fast forward 60 years to the early 1920s, and jazz music is introduced. Jazz is considered by many to be “true American music.” It originated in New Orleans and is a compilation of rhythm, blues, ragtime, improvisation, swing, as well as influences from countries all over the world (https://academy.jazz.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/14-15-Let-Freedom-Swing-Concert-Resource-Guide.pdf). Jazz is shockingly similar to the American cultural identity. When a jazz band is performing, great attention and patience are required. It involves listening. Every instrument has a significant part. This is very similar to our democracy and freedom. We all play an important role in society and we all have a voice. Jazz also requires improvisation. Musicians solo over each other and
American’s desire to be free is one ideal that we have maintained …show more content…
African Americans were stolen from their homeland and sent to the Americas as slaves. Up until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865, African Americans were not free. During this period of slavery, many individuals sang songs with one another while working. These songs were often very rhythmic, repetitive, and in some cases a form of communication (https://www.thirteen.org/wnet/slavery/experience/education/feature.html) (https://www.sutori.com/story/slave-culture-music-7599). The music was a form of expressive freedom for many slaves. Fast forward 60 years to the early 1920s, and jazz music is introduced. Jazz is considered by many to be “true American music.” It originated in New Orleans and is a compilation of rhythm, blues, ragtime, improvisation, swing, as well as influences from countries all over the world (https://academy.jazz.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/14-15-Let-Freedom-Swing-Concert-Resource-Guide.pdf). Jazz is shockingly similar to the American cultural identity. When a jazz band is performing, great attention and patience are required. It involves listening. Every instrument has a significant part. This is very similar to our democracy and freedom. We all play an important role in society and we all have a voice. Jazz also requires improvisation. Musicians solo over each other and