64.8k views
3 votes
Explain how the formation of a national culture led to infatuation of heroes in America?

2 Answers

0 votes

Final answer:

The infatuation of heroes in America arose from the need to forge a national identity and unity during the Revolutionary War and was reinforced by subsequent conflicts. Heroes exemplified the nation's virtues and were central to the myth-making process that portrayed America as a land of opportunity and valor.

Step-by-step explanation:

The formation of national culture in America led to the infatuation of heroes due to the need for figures who exemplified the nation's ideals. During the Revolutionary War, a sense of national identity was fostered out of the need to unify the colonists against a common enemy, the British. Overcoming regional differences was essential to form this identity, and patriotism was seen as a vital binding force. The cult of the hero emerged as these individuals were seen as personifications of the virtues and ideals Americans held dear, such as sacrifice, valor, and dedication to the common welfare. Historian Kim Byung-Joon points out that national myths are crucial for a nation's cohesion, and in America, the mythologization of founding figures and war heroes played a significant role in shaping the narrative of a united, valorous country.

In addition to the Revolutionary War, the portrayal of heroes during times of conflict, such as World War I, reinforced the concept of heroism as central to American character. Soldiers were often seen as the embodiment of moral crusades and manly virtues. This view allowed for a standardized story of heroism that glossed over the brutality of war, perpetuating the hero myth and serving as a narrative of national development from youthful play to mature sacrifice.

User Marek H
by
5.3k points
5 votes

Answer:

National Culture led to the infatuation of heroes in America by influencing people in the form of movies, arts and write-ups.

Step-by-step explanation:

"National Culture" refers to values, characteristics, beliefs, customs, etc. that people in a nation normally follows. It becomes a standard that people share all-together. It plays a vital role in shaping the nation, thus it influences the citizens in many ways.

One of which, is the infatuation of heroes in America. This could either be the classic heroes or the modern fictional heroes. It is probably in the 1920s that America became more concerned about having a national identity, since it was during this time that movies, artists and writers became very popular. The influence of these elements greatly affected the country's national culture. For example, in the film industry, heroes were given priority. Audiences were smitten by the existence of heroes in America. This became a norm that influenced a national stereotype that "heroes are always good" and people greatly believed in it.

Such formation had a huge impact on the culture of America.

User Patrice Neff
by
4.8k points