Contemporary World Final Essay

Final Essay

The second half of the twentieth century has seen many changes in political policies, the economy, religion, and technology.   All of these have affected each other. The study of the history of humankind allows us to look back and learn from past accomplishments and mistakes.   Although technology has allowed for incredible communication and reporting around the world, as individuals do we use this to our advantage and grow as better people? We continue to struggle with ingrained prejudices and ideals for other ethnic groups.   As the movement for diversity continues to grow in today"s society, our biggest problem we face in the future could be the disuniting of people.   How we handle the changes will provide negative and positive results.
When the United States was formed, the different ethnic groups had a common goal.   They wanted to build a nation of multiethnic groups sharing in common political ideas.   This was clearly stated in the Constitution of the United States. "We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union…" builds an immediate identity of citizenship among the people creating cohesion of the different ethnic groups.   Hector St. John de Crevecoeur, a French immigrant published Letters from an American Farmer during the American Revolution.   In it, he answered his question "What then is the American, this new man?"   His answer is "He is an American, who leaving behind him all his ancient prejudices and manners, received new ones from the new mode of life he has embraced, the new government he obeys, and the new rank he holds.   The American is a new man, who acts upon new principles….Here individuals of all nations are melted into a new race of men." (Schlesinger, Jr. 12).   The term melting pot was coined to describe the blending of the new multiethnic society in America.
However, ethnic groups settled together in areas and formed their own neighborhoods.   In a diverse city like Chicago, this is clearly seen....