Every individual and society have their unique sense of identity that outstand them from others in many aspects such as beliefs, food, languages, and celebrations. It is important to learn from one another and celebrate our differences, but first, we must have a level of understanding about each other in order to facilitate collaboration and cooperation. Below are examples of elements that have shaped my identity as an Egyptian followed by elements from a different culture, the US-American culture.

The Egyptian revolution of 2011

January 25th, 2011 was one of the most important days in modern Egyptian history, millions of protesters from a wide range of socio-economic and religious backgrounds demanded the overthrow of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. The Egyptian protesters’ grievances focused on legal and political issues, including police brutality, state-of-emergency laws, lack of political freedom, civil liberty, freedom of speech, corruption, high unemployment, food-price inflation, and low wages. Violent clashes between security forces and protesters resulted in at least 846 people killed and over 6,000 injured. Protesters retaliated by burning over 90 police stations across the country. I was so proud and will always be seeing and remembering this day. It showed the Egyptian people pride, strength, and unity.

The Egyptian Media Production City (EMPC)

EMPC is an information and media complex located near Cairo in Egypt. it covers an area of about 35 million square meters. The Company provides and leases television, cinema, and media production tools, and complementary services to others, as well as produces cultural, drama and kids shows., It also offers other activities including media products marketing and distribution, post-production, and pre-production services. The Company operates the International Academy for Engineering & Media Science, which offers specialized technical diplomas and advanced training courses in a range of media fields. As a child, I grew up watching their shows which have shaped my mind significantly. They play an important role in the media development of the country and they have been very influential and successful on both national and regional levels, it is like an Arab Hollywood.

Mashrou’ Leila concert 

On September 22nd, 2017, Photos and video clips of young Egyptian waving rainbow flags during a performance by Mashrou’ Leila, a popular Lebanese band whose lead singer is openly gay, were shared widely on social media. The images provoked a backlash from conservative Egyptian politicians and television hosts, as well as a heated debate on social media that featured virulently homophobic comments. Although homosexuality is not illegal in Egypt, the authorities frequently prosecute gay men for homosexuality and women for prostitution under loosely-worded laws that prohibit immorality and “habitual debauchery.” The raising of the rainbow flag was a rare public show of support for the LGBT community in the conservative Muslim country. It was a reminder for the people that queer Egyptians are strong and visible.  Since then discourse around the LGBTQ+ community started to become more common in media forcing itself on society and empowering queer Egyptians.

Ramadan and Eid Season

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. The spiritual rewards of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also tobacco products, sexual relations, and sinful behavior, devoting themselves instead to prayers and recitation of the Quran. Muslims devote more time to prayer and acts of charity, striving to improve their self-discipline. In Egypt, lights are strung up in public squares and across city streets, a tradition believed to have originated during the Fatimid Caliphate, where the rule of Caliph al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah was acclaimed by people holding lanterns. Food changes a lot during this time as many dishes are usually just prepared during Ramadan. People visit each other more often and you could always hear people laughing and talking all day and night like if no one sleeps. After Ramadan comes Eid al-Fitr also called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast”, which marks the end of the month of Ramadan. Egyptians spend the first day of Eid al-Fitr to gather all family members and celebrate Eid at public gardens. It is customary for children to also receive an Eidi, a small sum of money to be spent on activities throughout the Eid. Egyptians like to celebrate with others, so the streets are always crowded during the days and nights of Eid.

Friday Prayers

In Islam, Friday prayer or Congregational prayer is a prayer that Muslims hold every Friday, afternoon instead of the Zuhr prayer. It is one of the most exalted Islamic rituals and one of its confirmed obligatory acts. As a child this was one of the main religious practices in my life, it was different from the rest of the prayers as the number of attendees is extremely higher than normal prayers and you probably get to see everyone who lives in the neighborhood. Besides being a religious ritual it is also a good bonding time with extended relatives and friends especially during the weekend (Yes Friday is a weekend in Egypt).

Street Food in Egypt

Egyptian streets are full of places where can you get different types of food at a convenient cost. Most commonly is the famous street food trucks that sell Ful medames (refried beans), Ta’ameya (falafel), Arab salad, Fries, etc. They exist in every corner of every street in Egypt and their food is extremely delicious. They play a big role in the Egyptian Economy as they provide an income for many people and breakfast for those heading to school or work every morning. I can confidently say that everyone who lived or visited Egypt has probably eaten there. It is culturally important to me because when I think of a street in Egypt, this the first thing it comes to my mind because it was part of my childhood and how I grew up.

Juice shops

Juice shops are more famous than pyramids in Egypt. Egyptians know at least 3 places where they could buy fresh juices in their city but never have been to the pyramids like me. Egyptian juice shops are especially in the sense that it is fresh, the fruits are juiced right on the spot upon order. Sugar cane juice is probably the most famous and it has a strong historical background. Egypt is blessed with the water of the Nile and the fertile soil which makes it suitable for the agriculture of many corps. Sugar cane is very common in Upper Egypt and can be consumed by chewing the fibers for the juice or juicing it with a machine. It is the main drink and works for all occasions, when you are happy, sad, going out with friends or even on a date because it is sweet and refreshing.

Kids shows in Egypt 

Egyptian culture and history are highly represented in its media productions. Many children’s TV shows represent this heritage such as Bakar, A story about the life of a southern Egypt from Nubia, and his pet, Rashida. And the Story of Sinuhe which showcases the life of an ancient Egyptian called Sinuhe and his two best friends Hapy and Teti-Sherry. All these shows were a big part of my childhood growing up and I absolutely loved them. They present more than just entertainment, they include moral lessons that urge kids to do good, help others and never be dishonest with family and friends. As most of the Egyptian productions, they have the comedy component which made them delightful and loved by both kids and elders.

Sports in Egypt

Football is the main sport in Egypt; Egyptians gather around to watch various Egyptian clubs and the Egyptian national football team plays on an almost daily basis. The Egyptian national football team is also known under the nickname of the Pharaohs. The team has won multiple cups over the years. They won the African Cup of Nations 7 times making them record holders of most African cup wins and most wins in a row (for winning 3 times in a row). Their highest FIFA ranking was in July 2010 where they were ranked 9th in the world, making it their greatest achievement. They were the first from an African country and also, from an Arab country to participate in the World Cup when they played in 1934. El Ahly and El Zamalek are amongst the most popular in the country, both of which are based in Cairo. Both teams compete in the Egyptian Premier League, the highest tier of Egyptian football. Growing up in Egypt you always get asked the question of which team do you belong to, surprisingly your options are only El Ahly or El Zamalek. Around 85% of the people on El Ahly side and 10% support El Zamalek, I am one of the 10%. I had the honor to watch these football games which absolutely entertaining yet can bring you a heart attack in the last couple of minutes of the match.

Night Clubs in Egypt

As a Middle Eastern, predominately Muslim nation, Egypt is not the biggest partying and drinking destination in the world.  However, there are a variety of clubs, discos, casinos, and bars, located within major hotels and in Cairo around Al Zamalek district, the main nightclub area, and many tourist resorts along with the coast of the Red Sea. Alcohol is not illegal and Egypt and people can purchase and drink alcohol at the age of 18. However, any establishment that serves alcohol is required to be indoors, and the windows blocked from the outside. Stella is the most popular local beer in Egypt, and it goes for about 15 – 30 LE ($2.51 – $5.02) per large bottle. Clubs play a variety of music, including Western hip-hop and trance, as well as local Arabic tunes. Belly dancing is very popular in authentic nightclubs that consist of tables for the audience and a big stage where belly dancers and singers perform to entertain the audience.

Egyptian Weddings 

 

Egyptian weddings are very special ceremonies that have been carried on from generation to generation since the times of the Pharaohs. Weddings usually take place from Wednesday night to Friday noon. The Egyptian wedding main ceremony takes place on Thursday night. It starts with a car parade with wedding decorations of flowers and ribbons. When the bride and groom reach the hotel they are received by a “Zaffa” (procession), another human parade of belly dancers and drummers. As elsewhere in the world couples cut the wedding cake and feed each other. The bride then tosses her flower bouquet behind her back to other hopeful females. The wedding celebration is marked by plenty of food and drinking of a traditional sweet drink called “sharbat” which is prepared from various fruits and herbs. Egyptian weddings are always busy because it is considered rude to decline a wedding invitation and the families compete to invite more guests so during my childhood I went to many weddings.

Abdel-Halim Hafez

Abdel Halim Hafez was an Egyptian singer, actor, and film producer. He is considered to be one of the greatest Egyptian musicians of the 20th centuries along with Umm Kulthum and Mohamed Abdel Wahab. As became more popular, he was given the nickname ‘el-Andaleeb el-Asmar, meaning The Dark-Skinned Nightingale for his sweet voice. During his career, He has sold over 80 million records. He was a live singer performing only on stage in sold-out arenas and stadiums and never had released a studio album. He also played many instruments such as the oboe, drums, piano, oud, clarinet, and guitar. He has performed in almost every country in the Arab World as well as outside the Arab World in Europe. He has many uplifting patriotic songs, not only for Egypt but other Arab countries such as Algeria, Syria, and Lebanon. He was also a mentor who helped many young artists and actors to pursue successful careers.I grew up listening to his music blasting from the radio that my grandfather turns on every night. He became one of my favorite singers when I was around 15 and could understand how magnificent his music is.

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George Floyd protests

On May 26th, 2020, Civil unrest and protests began as part of the response to the tragic death of George Floyd, a 46-year-old African-American man who was killed during an arrest. Local protests began in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul of Minnesota before quickly spreading nationwide and to over 2,000 cities and towns in over 60 countries in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Polls estimated that between 15 million and 26 million people had participated at some point in the demonstrations in the United States, making the protests the largest in U.S. history. While the majority of protests have been peaceful, demonstrations in some cities escalated into riots, looting, and street skirmishes with police and counter-protesters. Some police responded to protests with instances of police violence, including against reporters. The protests precipitated a cultural reckoning on racial injustice in the United States and have led to numerous legislative proposals on federal, state, and municipal levels intended to combat police misconduct, systemic racism, qualified immunity, and police brutality in the United States. It definitely has changed more inside the people themselves.

Hollywood

It is well known that the dominant style of American cinema is the classical Hollywood cinema, which developed from 1913 to 1969 and characterizes most films made there to this day. Hollywood is considered the oldest film industry where the earliest film studios and production companies emerged and is also the birthplace of various genres of cinema such as musical, horror, science fiction, and the war epic. The major film studios of Hollywood are the primary source of the most commercially successful and most ticket selling movies in the world. Moreover, many of Hollywood’s highest-grossing movies have generated more box-office revenue and ticket sales outside the United States than films made elsewhere. Hollywood is considered to be one of the most influential institutions in the world nowadays giving it the power in shaping the culture and identity of individuals around the world.

1969 Stonewall Riots 

The Stonewall Riots also called the Stonewall Uprising, began in the early hours of June 28, 1969, when New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in New York City. The raid sparked a riot among bar patrons and neighborhood residents as police roughly hauled employees and patrons out of the bar, leading to six days of protests and violent clashes with law enforcement outside the bar on the streets. The Stonewall Riots served as a catalyst for the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world. Though the Stonewall uprising didn’t start the gay rights movement, it was a galvanizing force for LGBT political activism, leading to numerous gay rights organizations nationwide.

The Christmas Season

The Christmas season also called the holiday season is an annually recurring period recognized in many Western and other countries. It is defined as incorporating at least Christmas, New Year, and sometimes various other holidays and festivals. It also is associated with a period of shopping which comprises a peak season for the retail sector (the “Christmas (or holiday) shopping season”) and a period of sales at the end of the season (the “January sales”). Christmas window displays and Christmas tree lighting ceremonies when trees decorated with ornaments and light bulbs are illuminated are traditions in many areas. Popular modern customs of the holiday include gift-giving; completing an Advent calendar or Advent wreath; Christmas music and caroling; viewing a Nativity play; an exchange of Christmas cards; church services; a special meal; and the display of various Christmas decorations, including Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and nativity scenes.

Sunday church service

It is a formalized period of Christian communal worship, often held in a church building. It often but not exclusively occurs on Sunday. The church service is the gathering together of Christians to be taught the “Word of God” (the Christian Bible) and encouraged in their faith. Some churches offer Sunday school classes These will often be for younger children, and may take place during the whole of the service (while the adults are in church). Following the service, there will often be an opportunity for fellowship in the church hall or other convenient place. This provides the members of the congregation a chance to socialize with each other and to greet visitors or new members.

Street food in the USA

For someone who grew up in the united states, street food trucks can be very limited or don’t exist in small cities but in big cities such as New York City and Los Angeles, it is very common. The food served can be very different from that of Egypt. In the United States, they serve mostly junk food such as hotdogs, burgers, fries, etc. However, the food served can differ from a region to another based on the demographics of the population. It represents the rich heritage of the rich as such most food trucks in New Mexico specialize in Hispanic food such as tacos and arepas.

Starbucks

Starbucks Corporation is an American multinational chain of coffeehouses. It is the world’s largest coffeehouse chain, Starbucks is seen to be the main representation of the United States’ second wave of coffee culture. Starbucks locations serve hot and cold drinks, various coffee and tea products, fresh juices, pastries, and snacks. Starbucks stores became the nation’s second living room, meeting place, and study hall. It’s not a stretch to say that Starbucks has altered American culture.

Kids shows in the USA

US-American animations are very popular and widespread around the world. It is a huge part of the media culture and gives the world hundreds of shows every year. Many cartoon shows that are supposed to be for kids are more like fantasy, they represent animals talking, superheroes, and aliens which is different from the reality given by the Egyptian kids’ shows. However, it still gives its part of conveying moral lessons and entertainment for kids. Most famously Tom & Jerry and Looney Tunes, which aren’t only what American kids grew up watching but also many Egyptians. 

Sports in the USA

American football is commonly played in the United States and Canada. It has evolved in the United States, emerging from the sports of soccer and rugby. It has many forms and levels, professional and college football are the most popular forms of the game, with other major levels such as high school and youth football. As of 2012, nearly 1.1 million high school athletes and 70,000 college athletes play the sport in the United States annually. The National Football League, the most popular American football league, has the highest average attendance of any professional sports league in the world. Its championship game, the Super Bowl, ranks among the most-watched club sporting events in the world. American football also plays a significant role in American culture. The day on which the Super Bowl is held is considered a de facto national holiday, and in parts of the country like Texas, the sport has been compared to a religion.

Night clubs in the USA

Nightclubs are very common in western countries and function as an entertainment venue and bar that usually operates late into the night. A nightclub is generally distinguished by the inclusion of a stage for live music, one or more dance floor areas, and a DJ booth, where a DJ plays recorded music. Some nightclubs include VIP areas for celebrities and important guests. The busiest nights for a nightclub are Friday and Saturday night. Most clubs cater to certain music genres, such as house music or hip hop.

US American weddings

US- American wedding traditions have been around for many years. They are usually seen as the norms of contemporary weddings inside and outside the states. They include many fun traditions that have been passed down through generations. Generally, the traditions of American weddings symbolize the promises of dreams coming true for the couple. Wedding traditions include tossing the flower bouquet and the bride’s garter for singles to catch them and be the next lucky to marry. Many traditions include cutting the cake and dancing the first dance on the floor.

Frank Sinatra 

Francis Sinatra was an American singer, actor, and producer. He was one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century as well as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He had sold more than 150 million records worldwide. Frank Sinatra had refined singing as a means of personal expression single-handedly. He was an instinctive musical genius and a consummate entertainer. Through his life and his art, he transcended the status of a mere icon to become one of the most recognizable symbols of American culture.

My American National Identity

Church

This is a picture of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Richmond. I believe that the church represents the faith that has shaped America during its’ 244-year-long history. Almost all of the founding fathers had a Christian faith of some type and Christianity has remained the dominant religion in the US since then. Although the percentage of Americans that are Christian has declined throughout the late twentieth century, Christianity’s tenets of love and grace still impact America.

School

In America, all children are educated. Many of them attend American public schools. This promise of free, governmental education has attracted many immigrants to come to America where they know that their children have at least some chance to get ahead by doing well in school.

US Constitution

The US Constitution is the governing document for the United States. It has proved revolutionary in changing the world through its ideals of freedom, democracy, and small government. Before the foundation of the United States, there were few democratic societies in the world. Through America’s outreach, most countries today have a democratic system of government. In addition to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights guarantees a large number of privileges to the American people.

Freedom of Speech

One of the most important freedoms in the Bill of Rights is the freedom of speech. This allows for criticism of the government and powerful people. Without the right to criticize those in power, a country will not have a very equitable and accountable society.

White House

The White House is the residence of the president of the United States and is instantly recognizable across the United States as a symbol for the president. In the US and worldwide, the president is seen as the representative for American policy and affairs.

The Army

The US Army is an important emblem for America, especially in foreign enemy countries. The army has been around since the earliest days of America but became a permanent, longstanding force in the early twentieth century. America’s army greatly contributed to the victories of the Allies in the two world wars and even today America’s army is mostly seen as a force for good.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a monument in New York Harbor that welcomed millions of immigrants into America when they came here during the first half of the twentieth century on trans-Atlantic ocean liners. Most immigrants from overseas now arrive by plane, but the Statue of Liberty still stands as a symbol of the American immigrant culture.

Grand Canyon

The National Park System in the United States is one of the great features of America as it showcases the natural wonders and historical sites of the country. One of these parks is Grand Canyon National Park, established in 1919. The Grand Canyon is not the deepest, widest, or even longest canyon, but is one of the few canyons that has all three of these qualities in abundance. The National Parks of America represent America as it was before humans arrived and remind us that some places must be kept from development.

Monument Avenue

Monument Avenue in Richmond is not indicative of my identity as an American, but my identity as a Virginian. I have lived in Virginia for most of my life and am proud of its longstanding history and natural beauty. Although Virginia has been tainted by the impacts of slavery, I think that Virginia has generally made a good footprint on the United States. Virginia was the first English settled colony and contributed a great number of leaders to the fight for independence and the foundation of the country. Monument Avenue, prior to 2020, housed six statues: three of Confederate generals, one of a Confederate admiral, one of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and one of Richmond native and international tennis star, Arthur Ashe. The five statues of Confederate men, although flawed by their involvement with the wrong side of the Civil War, represent the heritage of many native Virginians.

The Plantation

The plantation is another point of Virginian identity. Again, it is tainted by slavery, but I think that it should still be remembered as a crucial place in Virginia history as most of the leaders of the state in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries were born and raised on plantations. Furthermore, many Black Virginians have ancestors who worked and lived on these plantations as well. As a relative newcomer to Virginia, I respect its past but recognize the need to put some clarification in the history books.

A Diverse Melting Pot

People of countless races, ethnicities, and cultures live in America. I believe this is one of the strengths of the US as when someone has exposure to multiple viewpoints, they can often make better decisions. Historically, people from across the world came to America to become part of something larger than themselves. This idea is exemplified in the national motto, E Pluribus Unum, which means “Out of many, One.”

The American Dream

One of the key reasons people come to the United States in the hundreds of thousands each year is the hope of achieving the American Dream. The American Dream is the idea that anyone can come to America and have a good life by working hard. I feel this personally as my parents are both first generation immigrants to the US from Canada. Although Canada is very similar to the US, they have less freedom and more taxes and big government. In America, someone can come and work hard and keep most of the money that they make. They can start a family and maybe start a business. Anyways, the freedom to do almost anything you set your mind to and work hard at can be found in America.

An Egyptian National Identity

Mosque

The Mosque is crucial to understanding Egypt as the country is around 90% Muslim and has been ruled by Muslim leaders since the seventh century. Islam influences Egypt in beneficial ways as one of the key tenets of the faith is to give alms to the poor and, in addition, Muslim banks do not charge interest and thus make it easier to get out of debt.

Nile River

The Nile River flows through the middle of Egypt and it is safe to say that without the Nile Egypt would not be a country or at least as historically significant as it was and is. The Nile is responsible for nearly every facet of Egyptian life, from water to food to items manufactured from river plants to transportation. Apart from the Nile, Egypt is largely a desert country, so the river is very important.

The Pyramids

The Pyramids of Giza are simply amazing. They are probably the greatest tourist lure in Egypt and were part of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Notably, they are the only site of the Seven Wonders that remain in a condition that somewhat resembles their original state. Built to house the pharaohs of Egypt’s earliest dynasties, the pyramids have stood for around 4500 years and are a symbol of Egypt as a whole.

The Pharaohs

Ancient Egypt was ruled by pharaohs for thousands of years. These kings left their imprint on the landscape of the modern-day country in their temples, palaces, and tombs scattered all over Egypt. During the time of the pharaohs, Egypt was fiercely independent and was also a great power that ruled over nearby lands as well.

Cairo

Cairo is the capital of Egypt and has been for one thousand years. Located on the Nile River in Lower Egypt, Cairo was established by the Fatimid dynasty. In the modern day, the city is the largest in Africa and the Middle East. It is called the “city of a thousand minarets” and is the home to over forty mosques. Cairo is not just the political but also the cultural and religious capital of Egypt.

Arabic language

Virtually every Egyptian speaks Arabic. The language was brought to Egypt by the Muslims when they conquered the country in the seventh century and spread through the land. Nowadays, the Ancient Egyptian language is kept alive solely in the Christian Coptic faith’s religious ceremonies.

Saladin

Saladin was the founder of the Ayyubid Dynasty that ruled Egypt in the twelfth and thirteen centuries. He is seen by many in the Middle East as the quintessential Muslim that fought against the Christians in the Crusades and almost completely annihilated the Christian state in Palestine. Saladin was responsible for many building projects in Egypt and most famously built the citadel of Cairo.

Flag of Egypt

This is the national flag of Egypt. It was adopted in 1984, although Egypt has had some variant of the red, white, and black tricolor since the foundation of the republic in 1953. The flag features the eagle of Saladin, which is also the national emblem of Egypt, in the middle. The colors of the flag also hold meaning: red stands for the Egyptians’ blood in the fight against their oppressors, white stands for the purity an Egyptian’s heart, and black stands for the defeat of darkness.

Government

The Government of Egypt is relatively young compared to the older governments of Egypt which sometimes lasted for hundreds of years. The Republic of Egypt was founded after the revolution in 1952 against the king of Egypt. It consists of two primary branches: the presidency and the legislature. The president has more power than the legislature so that can sometimes be an issue, especially when a dictator rises to power.

School

School in Egypt is free, except the education system does not have the resources to ensure a quality education for everyone. However, Egypt’s religious universities are world-renowned. Al-Azhar University, in particular, is widely regarded as the best university for Sunni Islamic teaching.

Music

Egyptian music is very influential in the larger Middle East region, just like the country as a whole. Initially, music was patronized by the khedives (rulers of Egypt during the late nineteenth century). This was the beginning of contemporary Egyptian music, as most artists in the twentieth century looked to those in the nineteenth for help and inspiration. Currently, Egypt hosts a thriving music scene of the contemporary, techno, folk, and classical genres.

Diversity of Cultures: Muslim, Christian, and Jewish

In Egypt, the main culture is Muslim but there are two additional minority cultures: Christian and Jewish. Under the current government, all groups are treated fairly and equally. Historically, this was not always the case. Under the early Muslim rulers, Christians and Jews had to pay supplementary taxes because they were not Muslim. However, this practice does not exist in Egypt anymore. Today, Egypt is as a united country where almost everybody speaks the same language and practices the same religion.

 

Egypt

My Identity

 

Combination of Cultures

An interesting aspect of American national identity lies in the fact many people still associate with other cultures and identities while still being “American.” My grandparents and parents hail from Norway, meaning I have a strong sense of Norwegian national identity. However, I have never actually been to Norway and have spent my whole life in the States. This leaves me with an interesting combination of passed on traditions and cultural aspects that I have never fully experienced because I am detached from the actual country of my heritage.

Regional Differences

Because the United States covers so many different climates and geographic areas, national identity is uniquely correlated with the region you grow up in. A Californian and a Newyorker have two distinctly different understandings of what it means to be American. I grew up in West Michigan and Chicago. As an American, the region you grow up in influences everything from your accent to your interactions. Midwesterns often have a sense of urgency that many associates with cold seasonal weather that does not provide the ability to linger and chill. Some components of Midwest culture that have made it into my own national identity include: hard work creates success, respect for those in your community is extremely important, self-reliance is expected and being a bad neighbor is the ultimate sin.

Religion

The United States is home to the largest number of Christians in the world. My family and I are included in that group of nearly 205 million. In the United States, it is incredibly easy and safe to practice your Christian faith. Not only is it easy, but in some circles, it is almost expected. In West Michigan, where I grew up, you were expected to be Christian. For many, Christianity is more than a religion in the sense of how it ties people together. Many communities are shaped and created in the local churches, and that was the world I grew up in West Michigan.

 

Religion and the State

Growing up in a Christian family I grew up hearing and understanding the importance of the Pilgrims who created a settlement at Plymouth Harbor. Their understanding of how religion should work within a community and the government still affects me today. People are free to practice their faith without religious persecution, however many Judeo-Christian values and morals are represented in the government. From “in god, we trust” inscribed on currency to laws upholding a worldview of a Christian, the United States is closely tied to faith. Many of the founding fathers of the United States claimed to be Christian. Identifying as a Christian in the United States is also closely tied with the history and foundation of the country.

 

Foundation of the Country

Similar to the Pilgrims establishing a community in New England, the revolutionary war also carries a large sense of national identity because it contributed to the establishment of the country. The United States was born out of rebellion, so today most Americans still have a similar mindset. This manifests itself in the fact that many Americans enjoy doing things differently compared to other countries and the idea that individuals are capable of drastically affecting the status quo.

 

Military and Wars

War and the military play heavily into the American psyche. Winning both world wars, the cold war, and smaller proxy wars have created a sense of superiority for most Americans. This sense of superiority militarily is warranted, the U.S. easily has the world’s largest military budget. Not only do Americans have a sense of superiority due to the military, but we also feel a sense of justification because we have won pretty much every war we have participated in. For me, the military has shaped my life because my Grandfather served for 23 years. The money he earned throughout his career allowed my father to live a comfortable life and acquire quality education. The military also developed skills and attributes in my grandfather that have been passed down generations to me.

 

Immigrants 

Regardless of what the current political climate says, the U.S. owes much of its success to immigrants. The U.S. is home to the immigrant mentality. Work hard and always look for the next opportunity and you will succeed. Due to the prevalence of immigration, few people identify as only American. Similar to my own identity having Norwegian influence, all around this country there are Italian Americans or Chinese Americans. All this ties back to the common understanding that at one point we were all immigrants. In many ways, it is humbling because we know most of our ancestors came here from terrible conditions seeking a better life.

 

American Dream

Closely tied to the prevalence of Immigrants is the existence of the “American Dream.” Although the “American Dream” is different for each person and undefinable, the concept of what it means remains the same for everyone. This concept, in theory, says that if you work hard and capitalize on opportunities that come your way you will live a better life than your parents and leave behind an even better life for your children. This is what my grandparents and countless other immigrants were chasing. The American Dream is generally understood to rest on the importance of hard work. For better or worse, the average American spends more time working than people in other countries.

 

Two Party System 

The U.S. identity has been molded by basically two parties. For this reason, people tie their own national identity with allegiance to a certain political party. This polarization creates a large divide between fellow citizens. However, the divide between republicans and democrats feeds into one’s national identity. Part of one’s national identity could be disagreeing with someone of the opposite party. People’s national identity is created and formed when they enter the voting ballot and choose between two candidates of opposing beliefs. People identify with a political position that has its unique understanding of what being an American means, further solidifying their understanding.

 

Nature/National Parks 

I debated between using the Grand Canyon or Yosemite, this shows just how beautiful and diverse the American geography is. Whether it is cornfields, forests, mountains, or swamps Americans are proud of the geography of where they live. National identity is oftentimes found in the most basic elements of a country, the land. Geography is a physical and tangible component of one’s national identity, and Americans have plenty of examples that prove America’s significance. The fact that certain places are deemed national parks and under the government’s supervision proves they are a source of pride and identity for Americans.

 

Industries 

From energy to technology, industries dominate the American economy and to a lesser extent people’s lives. Mega-Corporations such as Apple of Coke employ millions, have extreme amounts of influence, and impact our lives daily. American industries are at the cutting edge of utilizing and developing technology. Along with industry comes brands that people feel a connection to. Oftentimes these brands are homegrown in the United States, and supporting a brand feels like you are supporting your country.

 

Sports

Americans love their sports. Baseball is “America’s pastime”, the Superbowl draws in 100s of million viewers, and all around the world, the NBA is recognized as the highest level of basketball in the world. America is the destination for the best athletes in the world that want to show off their skills. Anytime I turn on the tv I can watch a variety of insane athletes from all around the world compete in different sports. Beyond sports played in America, the Olympics plays a key role in one’s national identity. Since I was born, America has received the most medals at every single Olympics. National identity not only lies in the popularity of sports but the excellence of American athletes.

 

Egypt Identity 

 

Nile

Past, present and future nothing is as important to the Egyptian way of life and country as the Nile river. For thousands of years, the Nile has been the center for travel, agriculture, economy, and urban centers. Even people outside Egypt immediately associate the Nile river with the nation of Egypt.

 

Pyramids of Giza

The pyramids are one of the wonders of the world for a reason. The grandeur, magnificence, and intrigue have surrounded them for centuries. They are physical reminders of the power and strength of the old dynasties that ruled Egypt. They are not only monuments to the Pharaohs buried within, but to the glory of Egypt. The question of how these colossal pyramids were constructed has stoked debate and intrigue of people around the world. An Egyptian must be proud that something your nation created thousands of years ago is still looked at with amazement and wonder.

 

The Desert 

In the juxtaposition of the areas close to the Nile, the deserts of Egypt make up a large majority of the land. The small number of people here live lives so different from people in Cairo or other developed urban areas along the Nile. The duality of Egypt is a large part of the identity. On one hand, you have the lush areas along the Nile, on the other, you have desolate stretches of desert.

 

Cleopatra 

Few people throughout history have captured the imagination and intrigued as Cleopatra. Known for her beauty and cunning, no better ambassador exists for a country. Whether it be influencing other nations, developing Egypt’s economy, or being an extremely powerful woman, has many components that make her a perfect source of national pride and identity.

 

Religion 

Today Islam dominates in Egypt. Roughly 90% of the country is Sunni Muslim, meaning a large majority of the country can attach religion to their national identity. When such a high proportion of fellow Egyptians practice the same religion as you, being a citizen and Muslim often blend into the same thing. Just because there is such a majority does not mean there is no unique and diverse history of religion in Egypt. The other roughly 10% are Coptic Christians, which makes up the largest Christian organization in the Middle East. Even though Islam is heavily practiced, many stories that relate to Judeo-Christian religions occur in Egypt such as the book of Exodus. Going back further in history the ancient religions of Egyptians explained through hieroglyphics are also interesting and distinctly Egyptian.

 

Thousands of years of History 

The sheer amount of history alone provides an interesting component to the Egyptian identity. Compared to the mere couple hundred years of American History, Ehytpain history spans thousands of years. This insane amount of history is full of dynamic dynasties, changing religions, evolutions of cultures, territorial expansion, and interactions with other ancient civilizations. An Egyptian must think that Egypt is destined to exist forever. For thousands of years, they have adapted to conquerors such as Alexander the Great, assimilated to cultures, and converted to religions.

 

Suez Canal

Built in the 1800s, the Suez Canal completely revolutionized trade and travel and Egypt was at the forefront of all of it. With the construction complete Egypt became a large player in international trade. Egypt’s geographic position was proven to be extremely important once again with the construction of the Suez Canal. The construction of the canal itself is a source of pride for Egyptians.

 

The Mediterranean 

Egypt’s location makes it unique because it fits into many different geographic categories. Egypt can be classified as part of North Africa, part of the Middle East, or as a Meditarian country. These diverse geographic differences allow for Egypt to not just be seen as one type of country. It’s not only the desert, not only the Nile, not only the Mediterranean. Because Egypt is home to varying geography, the people have a sense that Egypt is complex and can not just be summarized. There are beautiful aspects completely different from each other.

 

Library of Alexandria 

The burning of the Library of Alexandria is considered by many ones the worst losses to humanity. Before it was burned Alexandria was the main scholarly destination in the world. The people that visited Alexandria shaped the ancient world as we know it. For an Egyptian, knowing that your country used to be a leader in art, medicine, and other scholarly work is most definitely a source of pride. The fact that the burning of Alexandria is considered a tragedy just points to the importance and irreplaceability of the library.

 

Rosetta Stone

The Rosetta Stone was the key to understanding ancient hieroglyphics from thousands of years ago. Unlocking the past through the reading of previously unreadable and forgetting hieroglyphics adds to the historical significance that ties in so closely to the Egyptian Identity. It’s one thing to be able to point to an object from thousands of years ago and understand the story, context, and purpose of said object.

 

Papyrus 

Papyrus was cultivated along the Nile river and was turned into anything from paper to sails throughout Egypt. It was a large part of the Egyptian economy and agriculture. In many ways, papyrus can be attributed to the success of many of Egypt’s Dynasties. It was extremely versatile and could be inscribed on, making it extremely invaluable for any developing civilization. Because it was such a prevalent component of an Egyptian’s lifestyle and culture, papyrus still plays a role in the sense of national identity.

 

Cats

Cats were a very prevalent part of ancient Egyptian culture. Cats were depicted in divine ways and gods often took the form of cats. There is evidence of domestic cats in Egypt nearly 5000 years ago, meaning cats have been a part of Egyptian culture and war of life earlier than any other known culture in the world.

 

 

 

 

 

Egypt

This photo presents an example of what decision-making looks like for the Egyptian government. The politics of Egypt are based on republicanism, with a semi-presidential system of government. The current political system was established following the Egyptian Revolution of 2011 and the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak.

The Great Pyramid and the Sphinx are shown in this photo. These famous structures vibrantly display the beautiful, ancient history and culture of Egypt. Pyramids are constructed as tombs for pharaohs which exemplifies the significance of the afterlife in ancient Egyptian society.

In this photo, a beautiful Egyptian mosque is shown. Islam is the dominant religion in Egypt with around an estimated 90% of the population. Almost the entirety of Egypt’s Muslims are Sunnis, with a small minority of Shia and Ahmadi Muslims. Islam has been recognized as the state religion since 1980. This shows that Islam is an important part of Egyptian culture.

This is a photo of an Egyptian Coptic church that presents its remarkable architecture and design. Tradition holds that Mark brought Christianity to Egypt and founded the Coptic church during the first century. It is one of the oldest Christian churches in the Middle East and was first founded in Africa. They comprise the largest Christian community in the Middle East.

The Egyptian hieroglyphic script was one of the writing systems used by ancient Egyptians to represent their language. Hieroglyphics are significant to ancient Egyptian culture as many hieroglyphics have sacred or religious meaning.

This image portrays some of the tourism that exists in Egypt. Tourism is one of the leading sources of income, crucial to Egypt’s economy. At its peak in 2010, the sector employed about 12% of the workforce of Egypt serving approximately 14.7 million visitors to Egypt and providing revenues of nearly $12.5 billion.

Egyptian gods and goddesses, shown in this photo, are a crucial part of ancient Egyptian culture because pharaohs and Egyptian citizens often modeled their lives after pleasing these gods. The ancient Egyptians believed in many different gods and goddesses. Each one with its own role to play in maintaining peace and harmony across the land.

This is an image of the Egyptian flag. The current flag of the Arab Republic of Egypt consists of red, white, and black horizontal stripes. Red represents the sacrifices and blood of Egyptian martyrs, white symbolizes peace, black stands for the dark period of occupation, and the eagle represents strength and power.

This is a photo of the beautiful Nile River- the longest river in the world. The most important thing the Nile provided to the Ancient Egyptians was fertile land. Most of Egypt is desert, but along the Nile River, the soil is rich and good for growing crops. Today, the river continues to serve as a source of irrigation, as well as an important transportation and trade route.

This photo represents traditional Egyptian cuisine. Egyptian cuisine is a bit of a mix due to geography, history, and religion. Traditional Egyptian food shares a lot of similarities to the Eastern Mediterranean region and is very heavy in vegetables. Vegetables are an important part of traditional Egyptian cuisine both historically and in modern times. This is mainly thanks to the rich farming soils along the Nile river and delta. Historically, vegetables were also traditionally much cheaper than meat, making them a more popular food choice and a staple in many traditional Egyptian dishes. Another important factor to consider is the Coptic Christian community of Egypt, who follow strict diets throughout the year that are essentially vegan.

This picture displays what the Egyptian currency looks like. The Egyptian pound is the currency of Egypt. It is divided into 100 piastres, or ersh or 1,000. Obverse designs tend to feature an Islamic building with reverse designs featuring Ancient Egyptian motifs (buildings, statues, and inscriptions). Currency is significant because modern society cannot function without it.

The Egyptians were obsessed by life and its continuation rather than by a morbid fascination with death. The tombs, mortuary temples, and mummies that they produced were a celebration of life and a means of continuing it for eternity. The ancient Egyptians mummified their dead because they believed that the physical body would be important in the next life. Thus, preserving the body in as lifelike a way as possible was the goal of mummification.

America

The U.S. dollar was first designated as the world’s currency in the 1944 Bretton Woods Agreement, and it is the most powerful currency in the world. It’s backed by the world’s third-largest economy, the United States of America. The strength of the U.S. economy supports the dollar’s use as a global currency.

This is a photo of an American mosque. I wanted it to show how there is religious freedom in America even though many people associate Christianity with America. In the United States, freedom of religion is a constitutionally protected right provided in the religion clauses of the First Amendment. This also shows a similarity between America and Egypt that there is an Islamic following in both countries.

This image shows a Baptist church. The most popular religion in the U.S. is Christianity, comprising the majority of the population (73.7% of adults in 2016). Protestantism is significant in America because the Reformation sparked Western notions of representative government and equality and provided the ideological justification for modern banking and capitalism. In short, it’s impossible to unravel America’s Revolution, culture, or economy without taking Protestant doctrine into account.

The Washington Monument is a renowned monument in America that has been the setting of many important speeches and historical moments. Built in the shape of an Egyptian obelisk, evoking the timelessness of ancient civilizations, the Washington Monument embodies the awe, respect, and gratitude the nation felt for its most essential Founding Father.

The American flag has stood as a symbol of freedom and justice for over 225 years. The stripes represent the original 13 Colonies and the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

This image shows petroglyphs created by the Indigenous people who existed in America before pilgrims and colonizers arrived. When European explorers arrived in America, Native Americans did not communicate through writing as we know it. Instead, they told stories (oral histories) and created pictures and symbols. This is a significant part of American history because it shows that there were small tribes/ civilizations in America at an early time. These petroglyphs are also reminiscent of Egyptian hieroglyphs.

This is a photo of the Capitol Building where many decisions are made for the United States; the House and Senate reside here. America is a democracy. Supporting democracy not only promotes such fundamental American values as religious freedom and worker rights, but also helps create a more secure, stable, and prosperous global arena in which the United States can advance its national interests.

America does not have any particularly traditional American food because the country has a very diverse population with many different cultures and food. American cuisine was influenced by Europeans and Native Americans in its early history. Today, there are a number of foods that are commonly identified as American, such as hamburgers, hot dogs, potato chips, macaroni and cheese, and meatloaf. Americans are also known for consuming a large number of fried foods.

This image represents the tourism that exists in the United States. Tourism in the United States is a large industry that serves millions of international and domestic tourists yearly. Foreigners visit the U.S. to see natural wonders, cities, historic landmarks, and entertainment venues. Americans seek similar attractions, as well as recreation and vacation areas.

This drawing represents a significant event in American history- the Civil War. The Civil War had a greater impact on American society and the polity than any other event in the country’s history. It was also the most traumatic experience endured by any generation of Americans. At least 620,000 soldiers lost their lives in the war, 2 percent of the American population in 1861.

Hollywood is a neighborhood located in Los Angeles, California, that’s also synonymous with the glamour, money, and power of the entertainment industry. As the show-business capital of the world, Hollywood is home to many famous television and movie studios and record companies. America is extremely influential in the entertainment and media industry.

New York City was the capital of the United States from 1785 until 1790 and has been the largest U.S. city since 1790. The Statue of Liberty greeted millions of immigrants as they came to the U.S. by ship in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and is a symbol of the U.S. and its ideals of liberty and peace. New York City is also one of the most populous cities in America. It is also a huge showcase of diversity in the United States.

Post by: Grace Davis