Definition
Definition of ethnic
Ethnic is used for referring to people that have the same culture and traditions from a particular ethnic group (within a larger or dominant national or cultural group).
Individuals who identify with a particular ethnic group share the values, interests,language and confine their interpersonal relations to group membership.
Definition of racial
Racial is used for relating to a particular race of people or something that existing, connected with or occurring between people of different races.
Definition of assimilation
Assimilation is the process by which many groups have been made a part of a common cultural life with commonly shared values As a society undergoes assimilation, differences among these groups decrease.
Different term to indicate America
Melting Pot
Literal meaning: The Melting Pot is the original fondue restaurant where guests can enjoy several fondue cooking styles and a variety of unique entrees, salads, and indulgent desserts.
Figurative meaning: As we mentioned in Chapter 1, some have described the United States as a 'melting pot where various racial and ethnic groups have been combined into one culture.
The Melting Pot served as an inviting environment primarily for individuals of European descent, who represented the foundational culture that others were expected to assimilate into Distinguishing between the dominant culture and those outside it was straightforward, and to fully integrate into American society, one needed to embody this prevailing culture This phenomenon is particularly evident in the experiences of the Irish immigrants.
Initially, the Irish felt out of place in America, but over time, they were presented with an enticing opportunity By aligning with the Democratic Party and assimilating into American society, they could fully integrate and be recognized as equals, gaining the status of "white." This assimilation not only alleviated their oppression but also provided them with a sense of belonging within the diverse American melting pot.
The black individuals were seen as elements that could not integrate into society, akin to unwanted bones in a melting pot They were perceived not as valuable members of the community but rather as slaves, treated as mere property without the potential for acceptance or belonging.
The Melting Pot theory requires that immigrants assimilate in order to become one common culture American.
In Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels," the character Gulliver exemplifies the melting pot model through his journeys to diverse societies Similar to the Irish, he seeks to assimilate with the cultures he encounters, adopting their customs while gradually distancing himself from his English identity This transformation highlights the complexities of cultural integration and the impact of travel on personal identity.
Salad Bowl
Literal meaning: dish consisting of green, leafy raw vegetables, often with radish,
Figurative meaning: United States - the various groups have remained somewhat distinct and different from one another, creating a richly diverse country.
The concept of the "Salad Bowl" serves as a more inclusive representation of America's cultural development compared to the "Melting Pot," which implies a homogenous blend The Salad Bowl emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual identities that contribute to the diverse fabric of American culture However, this idealistic view may overlook the historical complexities and injustices inherent in America's past In contrast, the Melting Pot theory, while problematic, offers a more accurate reflection of the challenges faced in the development of American culture, addressing its injustices more candidly than the optimistic portrayal of the Salad Bowl.
The "Salad Bowl" theory basically calls for us to celebrate our diversity along with our oneness.
Since 1776, the United States has experienced significant racial and ethnic assimilation, yet certain groups maintain a distinct sense of separateness from the broader culture, with many identifying as bicultural.
That is, they consider themselves Americans, but they also wish to retain the language and the cultural Traditions of their original culture.
Mosaic
A "cultural mosaic" refers to the harmonious coexistence of diverse ethnic groups, languages, and cultures within a society This concept emphasizes multiculturalism, contrasting with the melting pot model, which suggests a process of assimilation, as seen in countries like the United States.
Characteristics: People are more tolerant of other:
People are allowed to practice their own culture
People are more likely to learn English
There is more recognition to minority groups
The ideas from diversity of view-points will strengthen the host country
A greater chance that the immigrants will fight for their host country
Attempts to create unity through differences
Provides the public sense of free speech
Can help separate conflicting groups
Immigrants contribute significantly to the economy of both their host country and themselves For instance, Canada exemplifies this through its cultural mosaic, where diverse cultures are not only welcomed but also celebrated, each occupying a unique and respected position within society This inclusive approach fosters economic growth by harnessing the strengths and talents of various cultural groups, enriching the social fabric and driving innovation.
The establishment of Dominant Culture
What is Dominant Culture
In societies where there are different kinds of people, one group is usually larger or more powerful than the others Generally, societies consist of a dominant culture, subcultures, and countercultures.
A dominant culture refers to the prevailing cultural practices within a specific entity, encompassing language, religion, social values, and customs that set the norm for an entire society It gains dominance by being perceived as representative of the majority and having a significant presence in key institutions, including communication, education, artistic expression, law, government, and business.
Cultural dynamics within a geopolitical entity can evolve due to internal or external influences, yet dominant cultures often demonstrate resilience, perpetuating themselves across generations In a polycultural society, diverse cultures are honored and valued equally However, a dominant culture may be intentionally advanced while minority cultures or subcultures face suppression.
The census of America population
In practice, the first census of the new nation, conducted in 1790, counted about
4 million people, most of whom were white.
Over 80% of white citizens in the population traced their ancestry to England, while African Americans constituted a notable 20%, marking a historical peak The population included nearly 700,000 enslaved individuals and around 60,000 free African Americans Additionally, the census accounted for only a small number of tax-paying Native Americans, although the estimated total Native American population was likely around one million.
In the newly formed nation, the white population wielded the majority in numbers, wealth, and political influence, leading them to establish the dominant cultural framework.
During the American Revolution, the predominant demographic among the white population was English in origin, predominantly Protestant, and largely middle-class This group is often labeled as "WASPs" (white Anglo-Saxon Protestants), although many now view this term as derogatory.
The defining traits of the dominant group established a benchmark for evaluating others, often leading to the marginalization of minorities Individuals from different religious backgrounds, like Irish Catholics, or those who spoke different languages, such as Germans, Dutch, and Swedes, faced disadvantages unless they assimilated into the prevailing culture.
The Dominant Culture grew out of the Nation's History
The dominant culture in a society refers to the group that holds the majority or possesses greater power over others In the United States, this culture is primarily characterized by white, middle-class, Protestant individuals of northern European descent This demographic outnumbers African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, and Native Americans, with a larger proportion of middle-class individuals compared to the wealthy or impoverished populations.
Differences between rich and poor
The dominant American culture, rooted in early history, was characterized by English-speaking, western European, Protestant, and middle-class values This culture established traditional values highlighted by de Tocqueville in the 1830s Americans anticipated that newcomers would uphold these core values, including freedom, equality of opportunity, and a strong work ethic aimed at achieving a better material standard of living.
The assimilation of different groups of immigrants into the main culture 13 1 The assimilation of Non- Protestant and Non- Western European
Overview
America used to be a colony of Spain, the Netherlands, France, and Britain.
These people soon brought their culture to America Through a process of cultural exchange and integration, the unique cultural identity of the American was formed.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced a significant third wave of migration, attracting millions of immigrants primarily from impoverished regions of southern and eastern Europe These newcomers often spoke languages other than English and were predominantly Catholics or Jews, leading to a mixed reception in the U.S that included both acceptance and underlying tensions.
Demographic data of the immigrants arriving the US in the late 19th –
Between 1850 and 1930, approximately 5 million Germans migrated to the United States, with a significant influx occurring from 1881 to 1885, when one million Germans primarily settled in the Midwest Additionally, between 1820 and 1930, 3.5 million British and 4.5 million Irish immigrants entered America Notably, before 1845, most Irish immigrants were Protestants, but following the Great Famine, there was a substantial increase in Irish Catholic arrivals.
After 1880, the advent of larger steam-powered oceangoing ships significantly reduced travel fares and increased immigrant mobility, while the expansion of Europe's railroad system facilitated access to ports Concurrently, agricultural advancements in Southern Europe and the Russian Empire led to a surplus of labor, predominantly attracting young people aged 15 to 30 This period marked the third major wave of U.S immigration, often described as a flood, with nearly 25 million Europeans making the journey The majority of these newcomers included Italians, Greeks, Hungarians, Poles, and various Slavic-speaking populations, along with an estimated 2.5 to 4 million Jews.
Anti-Catholicism in the US in the late 19th century
Between 1840 and 1924, over 30 million European immigrants, many of whom were Catholic from countries like Ireland, Sicily, and Poland, moved to the United States These immigrants often encountered hostility from the predominantly English-speaking Protestant population, which had roots in Northern Europe This animosity was evident in events such as the burning of Boston’s Charlestown Convent in 1834 and the emergence of the anti-immigrant Know Nothing party in the 1850s, which briefly held significant political power Additionally, discriminatory signs like "No Irish Need Apply" in the 1890s highlighted the challenges faced by Catholic immigrants in a nation grappling with its identity.
In the late 19th century, as immigration patterns became increasingly complex, social scientists and politicians sought to classify Americans more accurately They recognized that whiteness existed on a spectrum, categorizing Europeans into groups such as “Anglo Saxon,” “Celtic,” “Hebrew,” and “Asiatic.” This shift towards racial classification was significantly influenced by advancements in modern biology and chemistry.
In 1911, the Dillingham Commission on Immigration sought to categorize new immigrant groups into a simplified five-tier racial scheme: Caucasian, Mongolian, Ethiopian, Malay, and American However, the complexity of immigration issues led the commission to reconsider this approach In Volume 9 of its extensive report, titled A Dictionary of Races or Peoples, the commission recognized the intricacies involved, highlighting the challenges of reducing diverse immigrant identities to a basic classification.
“recognizes 45 races or peoples among immigrants coming to the United States, and of these 36 are indigenous to Europe.”
Many scientists, including experts from the Dillingham Commission, concurred that race significantly influenced behavior, intelligence, and physical traits, leading to the belief that racial groups could be organized in a hierarchy For example, the Dictionary of Races or Peoples described Bohemians in a specific manner that reflected these views.
“the most advanced of all” Slavic race groups The Southern Italian, on the other hand, it deemed “an individualist having little adaptability to highly organized society.”
The Station for the Study of Evolution, founded by the Carnegie Institution in 1904 at Cold Spring Harbor, exemplified a prominent school of thought Led by director Charles Davenport, the institute focused on exploring the connections between race and behavior, dedicating significant effort to documenting these relationships throughout his career.
The concept of a "melting pot" is outdated, as modern understanding of genetics reveals that traits are inherited as distinct units rather than blending together This shift in perspective supports the argument that certain racial groups possess inherent qualities that may make them more suitable for citizenship than others.
Senator Ira Hersey of Maine lamented, “We have thrown open wide our gates and through them have come other alien races, of alien blood, from Asia and southern
Congressman Earl Michener of Michigan reflected common beliefs when he stated that the Nordic race established the foundations of American society, suggesting that any dilution of Nordic traits would lead to societal decline Hersey's reference to "pagan rites" likely encompassed both the Latin Mass and Hebrew services, highlighting the diverse cultural influences present in Europe.
Anti-Catholicism in the US in the early 20th century
In the early 20th century, a strong backlash against Catholic and Jewish immigrants emerged, prominently exemplified by the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan, an organization originally founded in the 1860s in violent resistance to the emancipation of black slaves.
The new Klan aimed for a national presence and targeted various groups, including Catholics, Jews, immigrants, "new women," bootleggers, criminals, and black Americans, as threats to family and nation This organization positioned itself as the enemy of anyone perceived to undermine the ideal of small, Protestant communities Central to their ideology was the promotion of "one hundred percent Americanism," which they claimed was necessary to combat the social and cultural decline threatening American values.
Klan members often combined their deep-seated anti-Catholic sentiments with a morbid curiosity about the Catholic Church's alleged sexual misconduct, which was entirely fabricated Klan literature depicted nuns as deriving pleasure from punishing young girls, while it falsely asserted that Knights of Columbus members pledged to commit horrific acts against non-Catholic "heretics." Prominent Klan speakers, such as Helen Jackson, perpetuated these disturbing narratives.
“escaped nun,” regaled listeners with tales of carnal relationships between priests and nuns and forced abortions within convent walls.
The Klan emerged not only as a force in rural backlash but also gained prominence in urban areas, where it resisted the increasing political influence of Catholics, who were rapidly forming demographic majorities in American cities.
Americans' help to the immigrants
Americans responded to perceived threats to their values by providing English language and citizenship classes for immigrants However, many immigrants sensed disapproval from their American instructors regarding their cultural traditions Additionally, understanding American values did not adequately address their critical needs, including employment, food, and housing.
Far more helpful to the new immigrants were the “political bosses” of the larger cities of the northeastern United States, where most of the immigrants first arrived.
Those bosses saw many of the practical needs of the immigrants and were more accepting of the different homeland traditions.
In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, political bosses played a crucial role in integrating a significant influx of immigrants into American society by providing them with jobs and housing in exchange for their political allegiance Furthermore, these bosses assisted the children of these immigrants in securing employment, benefiting from their familiarity with the English language.
At the turn of the century, the booming U.S economy provided new immigrants with opportunities to improve their standard of living, often aided by employers This influx of immigrants not only embraced many American cultural values but also gained acceptance from the majority of the American populace.
The integration of immigrants and their children has significantly enhanced the economic vitality and cultural diversity of the United States By providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, the US has enabled immigrants to fully embrace American identity and citizenship In return, these individuals have contributed to the nation by serving in the military, driving technological innovation, cultivating crops, and enriching various aspects of American life, including cuisine, education, music, and art.
The African- American Experience
The assimilation process in the United States has been notably more successful for white ethnic groups compared to nonwhite ethnic groups, with Americans of African descent facing the greatest challenges in integrating into the broader culture.
In the mid-1500s, European mariners started bringing black Africans to America as slaves This forced migration was unique in American history.
The slave trade has deep historical roots in both Europe and Africa, dating back to the eighth century In West Africa, the practice of slavery was prevalent, with many individuals held as slaves being prisoners of war, criminals, or those from the lowest ranks of caste systems.
An engraving depicting the 1840 convention of the Anti-Slavery Society, held in London, people attended from around the world, including from the U.S.
The brutal capture and sale of Africans for the American slave markets resulted in immense suffering, with nearly 40% of West African captives perishing during the harrowing march to the Atlantic coast Once aboard slave ships, they were confined in cramped, coffin-sized spaces, leading to an estimated one-third dying during the treacherous journey across the ocean.
In America, slaves were auctioned off to owners seeking labor for their plantations, often facing severe punishment This system allowed slave owners to disrupt families by selling individual members away from their loved ones.
Despite facing immense challenges, enslaved individuals cultivated a resilient cultural identity On plantations, a communal approach allowed all adults to care for the children, fostering a sense of community Despite the constant threat of separation, enslaved people formed enduring marriages and maintained close family connections Additionally, their exposure to Christianity led to the creation of unique forms of worship that reflected their experiences and beliefs.
Spirituals, the music of worship, expressed both slave endurance and religious belief Slaves frequently altered the lyrics of spirituals to carry the hope of freedom or to celebrate resistance.
In time, African culture enriched much of American music, theater, and dance.
African rhythms have significantly influenced Christian hymns and European marches, showcasing a blend of cultural musical traditions The banjo, an instrument with African origins, evolved into a staple in American music Additionally, the blues genre emerged from the fusion of African and European musical scales Vaudeville, in turn, can be seen as an extension of the song-and-dance performances originally created by black street artists.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, some African Americans achieved freedom, acquired property, and integrated into American society, particularly in the North, where the presence of slavery was diminished Both enslaved and free African Americans played vital roles in the economy and infrastructure, contributing to the construction of roads, canals, and cities.
In the early 1800s, a growing number of white citizens and free blacks in Northern states advocated for the abolition of slavery Frederick Douglass, a young black laborer, learned to read from his master's wife in Baltimore In 1838, he escaped to Massachusetts, where he emerged as a prominent writer, editor, and lecturer, significantly contributing to the abolitionist movement.
Frederick Douglass knew that slavery was not the South’s burden to bear alone.
The industrial North's economy relied heavily on the slave-driven agriculture of the South, prompting Frederick Douglass to urge his Northern audience to confront the issue of Southern slavery He posed a poignant question: “Are the great principles of political freedom and natural justice, embodied in the Declaration of Independence, extended to us?” Douglass further challenged their understanding of freedom by asking, “What to the American slave is your Fourth of July?”
At the onset of the Civil War, numerous African Americans from the North enlisted to support the Union cause Their fierce determination in battle surprised many observers, but these black soldiers were motivated by a deeper purpose: they were not only fighting to preserve the Union but also to secure their own liberation and freedom.
Following the Confederacy's defeat, Northern troops stayed in the South to protect the newly acquired freedoms of enslaved individuals African Americans established their own churches and schools, acquired land, and actively participated in politics By 1870, they had successfully elected 22 representatives to Congress.
In response to black emancipation, many Southerners, backed by the remaining white power structure, formed the Ku Klux Klan, which orchestrated terrorist raids and lynchings This violent group targeted homes, schools, and churches, instilling fear within the community.
When Northern troops left in 1877, the white power structure returned Within a couple of decades, this power structure succeeded in completely suppressing blacks.
African- American was excluded from voting Southern states wrote Jim Crow laws that segregated blacks from white society Blacks lived under constant threat of violence.
Starting in the 1890s, a significant migration of African Americans to Northern cities began, driven by the availability of factory jobs during World War I and a decline in European immigration due to strict new laws in the 1920s This created a pressing demand for industrial workers, prompting many Southern blacks, still facing the harsh realities of segregation, to seek better opportunities in the North Young black men actively pursued unskilled positions in meatpacking plants, steel mills, and auto assembly lines in cities like Chicago, Omaha, and Detroit.
Black workers unquestionably improved their lives in Northern cities Indoor plumbing, gas heat, and nearby schools awaited many arrivals from the rural South.
Black urban culture thrived in the Roaring '20s, with musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, and King Oliver leading the charge by bringing their New Orleans sound to Chicago In this vibrant urban setting, these jazz pioneers capitalized on advancements in musical instruments and recording technologies, ultimately achieving celebrity status during the Jazz Age.
Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican immigrant, preached black pride, racial separation, and a return to Africa By the early 1920s, Garvey had an estimated 2 million followers, most of them Northern city-dwellers.
Harlem, a vibrant neighborhood in uptown New York City, became a cultural hub for black migrants from the South, fostering a thriving community of black commerce and culture After World War I, it attracted a diverse group of black writers, artists, and intellectuals who, inspired by figures like Marcus Garvey, sought to explore their cultural identity rooted in African heritage However, unlike Garvey, they did not aspire to return to Africa; instead, they channeled their creative energy into embracing their dual identity as both black and American.
Contribution of the new immigrants to the American culture and economic 23 1 Economic
Immigrants hold jobs that are important to the economy
Immigrant workers without a college degree represent a significant portion of the workforce in various industries If these workers are unable to enter or remain in the United States, companies in these sectors will face increased challenges in staffing their operations.
In March 2018, immigrants without a four-year college degree constituted 10 percent of the total U.S population and 11 percent of the workforce, highlighting their significant presence in various crucial occupations and industries, as indicated by Census data.
Furthermore, immigrants help to provide business leadership in
A recent study revealed that from 1990 to 2005, immigrants founded 25% of venture-backed public companies in the U.S., creating over 200,000 jobs Notably, many leading firms driving the digital revolution, such as Intel, Sun Microsystems, eBay, and Google, were co-founded by immigrants This highlights the critical role of immigrants in fostering innovation and job creation, especially as the private sector seeks new growth opportunities in the aftermath of the recent recession.
Immigration also helps drive growth in certain industries
In the U.S housing market, the slowing growth of the native-born population has led to immigrant households increasingly contributing to overall housing growth Immigrants represented 8.7% of household growth in the 1970s, 15.7% in the 1980s, and surged to 31.9% in the 1990s.
More recently, analysis of Census Bureau data shows, immigrant-headed households made up 39.5 percent of household growth.
Immigrants are an important part of our international competitiveness,
Immigrants in the United States are more likely than U.S.-born citizens to possess advanced degrees, with nearly double the likelihood of holding a Ph.D Many leading scientists and engineers in the country are foreign-born, contributing significantly to the U.S.'s position as a leader in global innovation In 2006, immigrants were involved in approximately 24.2 percent of international patent applications, highlighting their crucial role in driving innovation This innovation boosts productivity among American workers and ultimately enhances the standard of living for all citizens.
Culture
New immigrants have significantly enhanced the nation's cultural diversity without fundamentally altering its government structure, free enterprise system, or traditional values.
According to Wattenberg, the United States is on track to become the first universal nation in history, thanks to the influx of new immigrants This unique diversity, featuring individuals from every corner of the globe living freely under a single government, is expected to enhance the nation's influence and attractiveness in the 21st century.
The United States can be seen as a mosaic, where diverse individuals from various ethnic backgrounds come together to form a unique American identity This concept highlights that while each group retains its distinctiveness, collectively they create a vibrant and cohesive picture The motto 'E Pluribus Unum,' meaning 'Out of many, one,' encapsulates this idea of unity in diversity.
The Muslim immigration in America with its influences on politics and the
The Muslim immigration in America with its influences on politics
As of 2016, approximately 3.3 million Muslim Americans represented around 1% of the total U.S population, according to Pew Research Center estimates Worldwide, the Muslim population exceeds 1.6 billion, encompassing a rich diversity of countries, regions, and ethnic backgrounds.
Muslim immigrants to the U.S primarily originate from Africa and South and Southeast Asia, with a significant number also coming from Arabic-speaking countries According to the Migration Policy Institute, there are approximately 1 million immigrants from the Middle East and North Africa, representing about 2.5 percent of all foreign-born residents in America As of 2013, the largest groups of immigrants from these regions are from Iraq (201,000), Egypt (176,000), and Lebanon (124,000).
The initial wave of Muslim immigration to America began in the 17th century, primarily through the arrival of enslaved Africans, of whom an estimated 10 to 15 percent were Muslims Despite facing significant challenges in practicing their faith and many being forcibly converted to Christianity, these enslaved individuals often maintained their religious beliefs in secrecy and passed them down to their children.
The next significant wave of Muslim immigrants began in the mid-19th century.
From the late 19th century to the 1920s, Muslim immigrants from the Middle East settled in states like Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa, driven by the pursuit of better economic opportunities Similar to many other migrants of the time, they primarily found work as manual laborers, contributing to the labor force in their new communities.
The Great Migration of African Americans from the South to the North significantly contributed to the revival of African-American Islam, a movement that has persisted throughout the twentieth century and into the present This resurgence aims to reclaim the culture and faith that were lost during slavery Currently, African-American Muslims represent approximately one-third of the total Muslim population in the United States.
The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 marked a significant shift in U.S immigration policy, welcoming a diverse influx of Muslims from the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Latin America This legislative change enabled highly-skilled professionals to immigrate to the United States, enriching the nation’s cultural and professional landscape.
Islam is projected to become the second largest religion in the United States, with current estimates from the Pew Research Center indicating that around 3.3 million Muslims reside in the country This figure contrasts with approximately 5.6 million Jews and 240 million Christians, the two predominant faiths Notably, about 50 million Americans identify as religiously unaffiliated By the year 2050, the Pew Research Center anticipates that the Muslim population in the U.S will grow to at least 8 million.
1.2 The influence of Muslim immigration on American politics
Since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, political discussions surrounding Muslim Americans have dominated headlines and intensified during the 2016 U.S presidential race On that tragic day, a group of extremists attacked the World Trade Center, resulting in significant loss of life.
3000 innocent lives in order to defend the religion of Islam Prejudices against
The rise in the Muslim population has led to increased Islamophobia, a form of discrimination characterized by intolerance and hate towards followers of Islam Many American Muslims are troubled by extremist violence committed in Islam's name, despite the fact that the vast majority are well integrated into society and actively report criminal activities Notably, American Muslims have played a crucial role in exposing or preventing 40% of domestic terrorism plots over the past decade.
America's Muslims are increasingly aware of their identity and aspire for recognition alongside other faiths such as Protestantism, Catholicism, and Judaism Historically, they have struggled to make an impact in the political landscape, but they are now gaining insight into the workings of the American democratic system It is reasonable to anticipate that they will eventually attain the participation and acknowledgment that has eluded them This recognition will stem from a collaborative effort, where Muslims actively build bridges of understanding and cooperation, while leaders from other communities engage with Muslims to appreciate their valuable contributions.
The journey toward achieving equality and freedom for Muslim Americans is often slow and challenging, yet it mirrors the experiences of other communities in the past Many within the American Muslim community view this process as a natural progression in a nation founded on the principles of freedom and equality As the unique elements of their identity gradually integrate into the broader American experience, Muslim citizens will increasingly demand accountability from their country in realizing their aspirations for equal status.
The attitude of American
In general, Americans hold a number of positive views about immigrants, but also have some reservations.
Overwhelming majorities of Americans believe immigrants are hard-working (87 percent) and have strong family values (80 percent), and a majority (53 percent) said that newcomers from other countries strengthen American society.
On the other hand, more than 7-in-10 (72 percent) also believe immigrants mostly keep to themselves, and a slim majority (51 percent) say they do not make an effort to learn English.
Immigrants possessing these traits were embraced by Americans, who believed that these newcomers would likely uphold core values of the dominant culture, including freedom, equal opportunity, and a strong work ethic aimed at achieving a better standard of living.
Although immigrants who were like the earlier settlers were accepted, those with significantly different characteristics tended to be viewed as a threat to traditional American values and way of life.
Many immigrants during this period originated from impoverished regions in southern and eastern Europe This influx sparked significant fear among Americans, who worried that these newcomers, having lived in poverty and dependency, might not grasp essential American values such as freedom, self-reliance, and competition.
The influx of new immigrants has raised concerns among Americans about potential shifts in the nation's core values In response to this perceived threat, efforts have been made to provide English language instruction and citizenship classes, aimed at instilling fundamental American beliefs in the newcomers.
2.2 The attitude of American to Muslim
Americans overwhelmingly support the principles of religious freedom, tolerance, and the separation of church and state, with 95% agreeing that all religious policies deserve respect, regardless of personal beliefs.
A majority (about 54 percent) of the general public agree that American Muslims are an important part of the religious community in the U.S., compared to 43 percent who disagree.
Muslims represent the fastest-growing religious group globally, with their growth and migration influencing political discussions in various countries The actions of extremist groups like ISIS have further spotlighted the Islamic faith, yet many Americans, residing in a nation with a small Muslim population, remain largely uninformed about Islam and its teachings.
Americans often apply a double standard in assessing violence associated with self-identified Muslims, particularly in the context of rising anti-Muslim sentiment since the 9/11 attacks As Islam is projected to become the second largest religion in the United States, many Muslims are increasingly engaging in the political process and working to educate their communities about their faith and history.
55% in US Muslims think Americans in general are friendly toward U.S.
Muslims, compared with just 14% who say they are unfriendly.
A 2017 Pew Research Center survey revealed that Americans rated Muslims with an average score of 48 on a “feeling thermometer” scale from 0 to 100, indicating a lukewarm perception This rating was comparable to that of atheists, who received a slightly higher average score of 50.
Americans generally hold positive views towards various religious groups, including Jews, Catholics, mainline Protestants, evangelical Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, and Mormons Notably, perceptions of Muslims have improved over recent years; in 2014, U.S adults rated Muslims at an average of 40 degrees in a similar survey, indicating a shift towards warmer attitudes today.
Republicans and those who lean toward the Republican Party gave Muslims an average rating of 39 degrees, considerably cooler than Democrats’ rating toward Muslims (56 degrees).
VII Assimilation in Vietnam and the role of government in assimilation process in both counties.
Assimilation in Vietnam
Vietnam's cultural landscape has been significantly shaped by both Chinese and Western influences The Chinese cultural impact began over a thousand years ago during various dynasties, notably the Han dynasty, while Western culture made its entrance between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries through the arrival of missionaries This dual influence is evident in numerous aspects of Vietnamese culture, reflecting a rich tapestry of historical interactions.
For over a millennium, the Northern domination has implemented assimilation policies aimed at integrating our people into a structure mirroring that of feudal China These policies sought to establish similar social frameworks, political institutions, agricultural practices, and cultural customs in our country The colonial government's ultimate objective was to enforce political, social, cultural, and ideological assimilation.
To achieve complete assimilation, Han emperors promoted the migration of people from the North to the South while also disseminating Northern ideology and culture among the Vietnamese The teaching of the Chinese language to the Vietnamese served as a crucial tool for this assimilation process.
During the Han dynasty, the governments across various regions implemented policies that encouraged intermarriage between the Chinese and Vietnamese, aiming to assimilate the Vietnamese population and diminish their distinct ethnic identity This strategy highlights the extensive reach and impact of the Han dynasty's assimilation efforts.
Specifically, they spread Confucianism into our country for the purpose of serving the domination needs of the northern feudalism.
Confucianism, a philosophical and ethical system originating in China, began to influence Vietnamese society during the Western Han Dynasty This ideology was utilized as a means to dominate and assimilate the Vietnamese people, reinforcing the notion of Dai Han's divine superiority and its predetermined authority over the region.
The ruling class established schools to promote Confucianism within Vietnamese society, effectively training a group of Vietnamese mandarins to serve the Han dynasty, functioning as instruments of the ruling authority.
The assimilation policy of the North left a quite deep imprint in other fields such as dress, clothing, accommodation, travel, production methods, social relations, voice, etc.
To combat assimilation and preserve cultural traditions, the Vietnamese actively reinforce their traditional culture, enhancing their resilience against micro-aggressions Simultaneously, they strive to perfect and develop their national cultural identity by integrating elements of Han culture, enriching their heritage, and adapting to contemporary circumstances.
Vietnamese culture has been significantly shaped by Western influences across various domains, including both spiritual and material aspects However, the response of the Vietnamese people to these influences varies by time and context; they selectively embrace or resist these changes This process of assimilation is characterized by a flexible approach, where individuals adopt beneficial elements while adapting them to align with their unique identities, circumstances, and needs.
The penetration of Western culture in Vietnam occurred primarily between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, driven by Western clergy who sought to evangelize Christianity This influx brought not only religious influences but also political, economic, and commercial changes The process of Western cultural integration can be categorized into four key periods.
- The beginning is the penetration of Christianity
- The period of colonial invasion and exchange with French culture (1858s – 1945s).
- The period of exchange with socialist culture Max-Lenin.
- Current period, exchange with human civilization and culture.
So, we can summarize the effects of the two cultures on the Vietnamese culture in some aspects:
Buddhism was introduced to Vietnam in the second century and flourished during the Ly Tran dynasty, becoming the official religion of the time This period saw the construction of numerous pagodas and temples, many of which continue to stand today.
- The people of Vietnam are assimilated in awareness, always believe in the law of cause and
The France invadedVietnam, introduceChristianity, built churches and they still exist today.
- Many Buddhist festivals are maintained and promoted in Vietnam today (Huong pagoda festival- Ha Tay)
-To govern the Vietnamese people, the Chinese dynasties propagated Chinese writings in order to assimilate the Vietnamese.
-Vietnamese people have borrowed any Chinese writings to form Chinese- Vietnamese, contributing to the addition of Vietnamese language treasures.
-The information of the Quoc Ngu writing- the origin of today’s writing.
-The formation of Vietnam also borrowed some Western words such as radio, TV…
The ideology of Confucianism has influenced the awareness of the Vietnamese in education.
- Family education: Children must obey, be filial to their parents.
- Patriarchy: Highlighting the role of a man in the family.
- The woman must live up to the standards: work- appearance- speech- behavior and these ideas still exist today.
-The basis of class division and examinations in Vietnam is now influenced by the French education system.
-France has built many school architecture and they still exist.
Cuisine -The dishes originated from China and popularly sold today in Vietnam such as dumplings, raisins, effervescent, noodles, etc… became familiar dishes of generations of people in Vietnam.
Many dishes imported into Vietnam have been enjoyed by many Vietnamese people (especially young
-Tea is a simple drink, the elegant pleasure of the Vietnamese. people) such as pizza, bread, fast food, etc.
Traditional festivals in Vietnam today are from China such as Lunar New year, full moon in January, mid- Autumn, etc.
Christmas has become familiar in Vietnam.
In today's globalized world, we encounter the term that reflects the rich tapestry of ethnic cultures in Vietnam, as well as our active engagement in embracing and integrating positive cultural elements from diverse countries around the globe.
Vietnam is home to a rich tapestry of ethnic diversity, with the Hoa (ethnic Chinese) being a prominent group that has successfully integrated into Vietnamese culture and plays a vital role in the economy, often not classified as an “ethnic minority.” In contrast, groups like the Hmong and Nung maintain agrarian lifestyles and a deep cultural connection to their forest environments Linguistically, Vietnam's ethnic groups are categorized into eight language families: Viet – Muong, Tay – Thai, Mon – Khmer, Mong – Dao, Ka – belt, Nam duc, Han, and Tang, with 96% of ethnic minorities speaking their native languages.
Ethnic minorities, despite facing limited educational opportunities compared to the Kinh majority, hold positions as cadres and civil servants across various government levels, particularly in provinces and cities However, there is significant variation in their representation across different regions.
53 ethnic groups is 79.8%, but literacy rates range from as low as 34.6% for the La
Hu, while literacy for the Tho, Muong, Tay, and San Diu are at 95%.
The role of government in assimilation process in both counties
As a diverse nation, the government's policies aim to enhance the living conditions of ethnic minorities residing in mountainous regions.
According to Marxism-Leninism, a key function of a socialist state is to foster harmonious relations and equitable treatment among ethnic groups The state enforces a national policy that promotes equality, solidarity, and mutual assistance, while strictly prohibiting ethnic discrimination Efforts are underway to enhance mechanisms and policies that support the development of all ethnic groups, particularly in the Northwest, Central Highlands, Southwest, and Central coastal regions, leading to significant advancements in economic, cultural, and social development.
The government is committed to enhancing the quality of education and training, focusing on developing human resources and fostering leadership among ethnic minorities and respected community representatives They prioritize strengthening the inspection, supervision, and evaluation of the implementation of national policies at all levels.
Through periods of revolution, especially the renovation period, the national policy of the Vietnamese State has created a revolution for socio-economic development in mountainous areas and ethnic minorities.
Over the past few decades, national policies have changed the face of our country's ethnic and mountainous areas from political, economic, social life to material, spiritual, and customary life.
We also can see that Vietnamese government always creates favorable condition for immigrant to Vietnam They appreciate the culture values immigrants bring to Vietnam.
100 years ago, the US enacted the harshest immigration law ever, and raged with controversy.
In 1965, the United States reformed its immigration laws, significantly increasing the number of immigrants allowed entry and abolishing previous regulations that favored white European immigrants.
Ben Wattenberg, a noted authority on American culture, asserts that the "new immigration" will significantly benefit the United States He argues that the country is evolving into the first universal nation in history, where diverse populations from every corner of the globe coexist freely under a single government This unique demographic landscape enhances America's global influence and attractiveness, positioning it as a model for the rest of the world.
In the 21st century, the United States faces the challenge of integrating a growing population of nonwhite and non-European immigrants, alongside managing a substantial number of illegal immigrants.
So, the law was rejected, the US government has more liberal policies to welcome immigrants and the US became the largest immigrant nation in the world.
They helped to assimilate large numbers of new immigrants into the larger American culture by finding them jobs and housing, in return for their political support.
On January 27, 2017, President Trump enacted a temporary ban on immigrants from seven predominantly Muslim countries for 90 days, halted the US refugee program for 120 days, and indefinitely suspended the acceptance of Syrian refugees However, on February 3, federal judge James Robart in Seattle issued a ruling to suspend this decree.
Since 2020, President Donald Trump's immigration policy has significantly impacted immigration plans and conditions in the United States This stricter approach affects not only Vietnamese immigrants but also individuals from various countries worldwide The situation remains complex and contentious.
This chapter clearly outlines the processes of ethnic and racial assimilation in the United States, highlighting that the dominant culture is predominantly white, English-speaking, Protestant, and middle class It emphasizes the varying experiences of assimilation among Non-Protestant groups, Non-Western Europeans, and African Americans Consequently, the United States is often referred to by diverse metaphors, such as the "melting pot" and the "salad bowl," to illustrate its complex cultural landscape.
“mosaic’’ And the United States is considered as the first universal nation in history.