The founding settlers of each nation had different motives and beliefs from "summary" of American Nations by Colin Woodard
The founding settlers of each nation that came to inhabit what is now the United States had starkly different motives and beliefs that shaped their societies from the very beginning. These settlers were not a monolithic group but rather distinct and separate peoples who arrived in the New World seeking different things and driven by contrasting visions of how society should be organized. The Puritans of New England, for example, sought to create a society based on religious principles and communal living. They valued order, conformity, and a strict moral code that governed every aspect of life. Their communities were tightly knit and focused on the common good, with individual interests subordinated to the needs of the group. In contrast, the settlers of the Deep South, including the Cavaliers of Virginia and the Barbadians of the Carolinas, were motivated by a desire for wealth and status. They established societies based on the principles of hierarchy, honor, and privilege, with wealth and social standing determining one's place in the social order. These settlers were focused on economic gain and the accumulation of power, and their societies reflected these values. The Quakers of the Mid-Atlantic region, on the other hand, sought to create a society based on principles of equality, tolerance, and individual freedom. They valued diversity, religious freedom, and the rights of the individual, creating communities that were open and inclusive, where people of different backgrounds and beliefs could live and work together in harmony. These differing motives and beliefs of the founding settlers of each nation had lasting impacts on the development of American society and culture. The legacy of these early settlers can still be seen today in the regional differences that persist across the United States, shaping everything from politics and economics to social norms and values. Understanding the diverse origins and motivations of the founding settlers of each nation is essential for grasping the complexity of American history and society. By acknowledging and exploring these differences, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that make up the United States.
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