Jamestown: The Seed Of American Tradition

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The Seed of American Tradition
Many people have pondered the beginning of their country’s history. The answer to this unclear question can be answered in the definition of history itself. According to Oxford Dictionaries, history is defined as “the whole series of past events connected with someone or something” (“History”). This definition alludes to the idea that events throughout history must influence the present day, so the beginning of history must encompass the beginning of the ideals and traditions upheld through the test of time. Jamestown, established in 1607, was the first American colony settled by the British. Their first settlement began to foster the ideals of racism and democracy, which have, as the definition of history requires, stood through the test of time. For these reasons, Jamestown was the start of U.S. history because it planted the seed of American tradition, which
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Today, this tradition is carried on through Congress, where Americans vote on who they think will represent their best interests on a national level. In addition to this, the General Assembly’s job to provide “just laws” can still be seen today on the judicial branch, where representatives appointed by the President interpret the Constitutionality of the laws, which is the way that modern Americans see justice and fairness. Finally, the General Assembly’s job of “happy guiding and governing of the people” connects to the inalienable rights listed in the Declaration of Independence (“life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”) and the government’s job to protect them ("The Declaration of Independence: A Transcription"). Thus, because of its connection to the, arguably, most important American documents and influence on modern day democracy, Jamestown is the beginning of U.S.

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