Many people began moving into the “New World” after Columbus’ discovery in 1492. The first inhabitants, the Native Americans, and their lifestyle/diet was based on things they planted or hunted. The first permanent colonists were the British and Spanish, who established the settlements Jamestown and Plymouth and St. Augustine. The French created provinces in Louisiana. Next the Dutch came and established the New Netherland Colony, which is now known has New York. Each group of settlers struggled when they first came over because of how different the land was, but eventually they were able to adapt their customs into their new way of life. Immigration began spreading all over the land, and it was common for each group of settlers from the same place to settle together in a particular region. After the slave trade was established African Americans were obviously brought to work on Southern plantations. In the 1800s many immigrants came to large industrial cities for the freedom that is available.
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GeographyThe geography is different around the nation depending on what specific region you are at. New England is known to be originally either rocky, mountainous, or forested. The winters are very long and cold. The Mid-Atlantic, however, has a milder climate. The land is very rich and good for farming. The south is great for farming because the climate allows crop production year round. The waters and forests are also important sources of food.The Midwest is great for farming because of its rich soil and good climate. There are many lakes and streams in this region. The West and Southwest varies from deserts, mountains, plateaus, and oil fields. The Pacific Coast varies even more. Some parts have rich soil and a warm climate while others are very cold and rocky. The Hawaiian Islands are very rich and beautiful in scenery.
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CultureImmigrants brought many traditions and customs to the Unites States. The holidays are heavily influenced by the different customs. For example, Mardis Gras is very popular in the south although it was originally a French custom. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated by Mexican Americans. This marks a very important victory in Mexican History. Some places in the United States will have parades or carnivals in celebration of this. Another holiday celebrated is Kwanzaa. This is a cultural holiday celebrated by African Americans that occurs between Christmas and New Year's Day. Although it originated in United States, it's becoming popular among people of African descent all over the world.
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History of FoodJust like culture in the United States, the food is very diverse. You can find just about every type of food everywhere. The Native Americans established the first food customs in the nation. Their diets were very healthy and nature based. Most of the food they ate they caught or planted themselves. When all the immigrants came they brought their own food customs. However, they still had to adapt. In some circumstances, the Native Americans taught them their ways of hunting, fishing, etc. The colonist became more knowledgeable about the land and ways it can provide for them. As a result, the two ways of living were somewhat integrated. For example, the colonists started using pumpkin and berries in their pastries.
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