Unfinished Nation

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses various elements that ultimately led to the outbreak of the American Civil War. The author explains that the division between the East and West was as important as the North-South divide, as it helped form the foundations of the country today.

From the Paper:

"Certainly, the division between North and South was an important aspect of American history, which ultimately led to the American Civil War. However, the division between East and West is almost as important, because it lasted so long, and because it helped form the foundations of the country we live and work in today. It also had origins in racism, but the racism against Native Americans instead of African-Americans. The tensions of Bacon's Rebellion in the 17th century that defined the spheres of white and native influence were never really settled, and whites continued to push Natives off their lands as they moved west. This is one of the most important aspects of this East/West divide, and indicates just how far back in history this divide has existed. Violence between whites and Natives was a constant theme, and at least some people believe it was at least partially responsible for the U.S.'s entrance into the War of 1812. Natives tended to look at the British as protectors, and the British in Canada supported these ties and the Natives' fight against Americans heading westward."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brinkley, Alan. Unfinished Nation: A Concise History of the American People. New York: McGraw Hill, 2006.

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