MyIdentity_Shehady

My National Identity

Christopher Columbus

Christopher Columbus, although a controversial figure today, was the explorer who first came to the “West Indies.” This is a huge part of my American and Puerto Rican identity. The establishment of the United States may have never happened without Columbus. In addition, I have taino heritage as a Puerto Rican, these were the people Columbus brutally enslaved and killed. This history is greatly important in both my American and Puerto Rican identity.

American Revolution

The American Revolution began in 1765, as the colonies began their revolt from Britain’s rule. This is a crucial piece of the history of the United States today. Without this revolution the United States would have stayed under Britain’s rule. One great American luxury that came from this was free capitalism and taxation with representation. These are hallmarks of our society today and they are two principles that, in my opinion, define much of the United States today.

Civil War

The Civil War is arguably on of the most important events in American history. The Civil War was between the Union and Confederate armies. This war is often mistaken as the end of slavery in the United States, yet this was the beginning of the end of the American institution of slavery. This is hugely important to our modern society.

Industrialization

The Industrial Revolution is the reason we as Americans have the luxury of modernity and capitalism. The Industrial Revolution is to thank for our working conditions, the middle class, and a lot of public health ideas. This was the first time in history this really happened. Without this todays work force would be a cruel environment.

Ellis Island

This country was founded on immigration. The United States is often referred to as the melting pot of the world. This is particularly important to my national identity because most of my family immigrated to this country. Without this luxury, my family would not exist or be living the lives we are today.

9/11

On September 11, 2001 terrorists attacked the World Trade Center. This changed society as we know it today. Now there are strict travelling security measures and with a horrendous act like this comes the hatred of an entire group of people. My family, being middle eastern, has experienced some of this hatred. 9/11 is a huge part of the collective American image but it also holds a place in my life from a prejudicial standpoint as well.

Washington D.C.

Washignton D.C. is our nations capital and is the home of our government. The priviledge and luxury of having a free democracy means a lot to my family. A lot of my family came to this country for a better life and our government was the reason. This is a very controversial topic today , but my family is grateful for being given the opportunity.

American Football

Football has been a big part of my life since I was little. My family and I are aggressive Eagles fans. We would always have people over for games. Watching football is definitely a majority of my childhood memories.

University of Richmond

The University of Richmond is my new home. I have spent my whole life thinking about college. I would be worried about school in third grade because I wanted to get into college so bad. Now that I’m in college I have fallen in love with every aspect of college life.

Puerto Rico

My grandmother came to the United States when she was 18. I spent a lot of my childhood with her. She taught me how to speak Spanish, cook and also how to dance, all of my passions today. I most closely relate to my Hispanic heritage.

Lebanon

My grandfather came to the United States from Lebanon to find a better life. He soon became the top military engineer in his company. He would come home from work every day with Lebanese pastries and candy. Also, Lebanese food is my favorite food to cook.

China

My great-grandfather came to the United States to escape from China. I always grew up cooking Chinese food and going into China town every weekend. We would go to dim sum every Sunday and go to the underground Asian market. A lot of my childhood was filled with my Chinese culture.