American Customs and Traditions

 

The USA is also called the “New World” since its history was only written a few hundred years ago. Since then, millions of people have immigrated to the USA to live and work there.

Americans like innovations. For example, they initiated the idea of building tall buildings, which are known as skyscrapers. They like new designs and modernity to make their life more comfortable. When I was in the USA for the first time, I was impressed by how comfortable people’s homes are. When you take a shower in winter, you just switch on the tap and get warm water. In the coldest seasons, you don’t have to put on layers of clothing indoor because of the heating system at home.

At the same time, Americans value old things. In America, there are many historic sites and museums where you can discover and learn history. For example, if you visit the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C., you can uncover the world of ancient Egypt and find mummies. Also, you can meet your closest ancestors and learn about the human origins and evolution, which is fascinating. You can even learn about the “Wild West” and discover the American lifestyle hundred years ago.

America is a country where people of different nationalities live together. Chinese, African, Asians, Indians, Europeans, and people from minority groups from the remotest parts of the world can be found in America. Those different people brought to the new land their own customs and traditions. For example, the Germans introduced Christmas tree in America. The Irish people brought St. Patrick’s Day, to commemorate the death of the Irish missionary during around the fifth century A.D. Jamaican musicians brought the raps at the beginning of the hip hop period. The Pilgrims introduced “Thanksgiving” after their first harvest in the New World and celebrated it with the Native American people.

The USA is a land of pluralism and diversity. Every year, Americans celebrate the Fourth of July which is the US national holiday of Independence Day. It is often celebrated with fireworks and parades. It is an important day to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence from England.

Over to you:

-          What makes the USA unique?

-          What do Americans do on Thanksgiving? Why do they celebrate it?

-          Do you know any other important American holiday? What is it? How is it celebrated?