What Makes America？--On Turner＇s Theory of Frontier

Frederick Jackson Turner argues in his ＂Frontier Thesis＂ that American democracy and individualism are shaped by adaptation to the environment and the exploitation of the frontier. The westward advance explains the development of America and the evolution of its national character. However, the weakness of his theory is that he does not define the nature of the frontier, or the exploitation of that frontier as a process. Although scholars and Presidents tend to proclaim the unique and exceptional traits of America, the rudiments of democracy originate from Europe. The Puritans in New England brought with them the idea of liberty and mission; the gentlemen of the Old South embodied the features of dignity, gallantry and hospitality; slave culture displayed a sense of humor and the pursuit of freedom and equality. All of these elements molded the colorful national character and culture of the United States of America.

What Makes America？--On Turner＇s Theory of Frontier