Holidays and National Identity. How Independence Day fosters American Identity

Thèse de Bachelor , 2015 , 50 Pages , Note: 1,3

Philologie Américaine - Culture et Études de pays

The aim of this work is to analyse the meanings and functions of Independence Day which shapes American identity. For an integral analysis two important aspects have to be considered: socio-political circumstances and the techniques used for generating national identity.

In the beginning the concept of national identity will be discussed and the terms nation and identity defined. Therefore, the work draws on Benedict Anderson’s theory of imagined communities in order to establish a general understanding of nations. Patrick Colm Hogan’s techniques of nationalization provide the basis for the final analysis. After conceptualizing the major elements for the analysis, the author analyses Americas oldest holiday, Independence Day. In the course of the analysis, both socio-political developments and Hogan’s techniques of nationalization will be identified in order to show how Independence Day celebrations generate and shape American identity.

Independence Day is America’s most important national holiday since it commemorates the birth of the United States of America. The holiday solemnizes the ratification of the Declaration of Independence and the foundation of the United States of America. But the Fourth of July encompasses more meanings than commonly assumed. Since its emergence, Independence Day has been instrumentalized for generating national identity and articulating social and ethnic issues. Down to the present day, the Fourth of July has accomplished important functions that established, defined, and shaped American identity.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Conceptualizing and Theoretical Framework: National Identity
2.1. Conceptualizing: Imagined Communities and Invented Traditions
2.2. Theoretical Framework: Parameters promoting National Identity
2.2.1. Salience
2.2.2. Opposability
2.2.3. Durability
2.2.4. Affectivity

3. How Independence Day fosters American Identity
3.1. The Fourth of July as a Promoter of Unity and National Identity
3.2. Hypocritical Fourth of Julys - Liberty of All?
3.2.1. Anti-Slavery Movement
3.2.2. Suffragette Movement
3.3. Fourth of July under the Banner of Americanization
3.4. The Fourth of July and the Outpour of Patriotism

4. Conclusion

Works Cited

• Université: University of Kassel
• Note: 1,3
• Auteur: Julia Trede (Auteur)
• Année de publication: 2015
• Pages: 50
• N° de catalogue: V511356
• ISBN (ebook): 9783346084279
• ISBN (Livre): 9783346084286
• Langue: anglais
• mots-clé: holidays, national, identity, independence, american