Ancient Egypt

Personally, I believe it is impossible to discuss Egyptian life without having knowledge of Egypt’s ancient roots. In Ancient Egypt, religion served as a main component of a citizen’s day-to-day life. They constructed monuments and temples to celebrate and worship certain gods. Much like the priesthood in Catholicism or Imams in Islamic faith, men and women would dedicate their lives to worshiping a specific Egyptian god or goddess. The religion of Ancient Egypt was constantly changing as Egypt came into contact with other faiths and civilizations. Although this ancient religion is extinct today, it was the dominant religion of Egypt for over 2000 years. There is no question that it has altered the course of Egypt extraordinarily.

Islam

It is speculated that around 90% of the Egyptian population is Muslim while Christianity trails at roughly 10%. Although these two faiths certainly will not comprise the entire country, it is astonishing to see how religious Egypt is as a nation. The conflict of Islamic tradition has certainly played a role in Egypt’s history, but the majority of Muslims today follow the Sunni Tradition (~85%). The Islamic faith is built around five pillars: shahada, salat, zakat, sawm, and hajj. Shahada is the Islamic profession of faith consisting of two parts:  “There is no god but God” and “Muhammad is the messenger of God.” Salat is Islamic prayer which consists of five daily meditations. Zakat is the act of almsgiving in which Muslims donate roughly 2.5% of their income to support the Islamic community. Sawm is the act of fasting that occurs in the ninth month, Ramadan, and forbids eating from dawn to dusk. Lastly, the Hajj is the required pilgrimage to Mecca that a Muslim must complete at least once in their life.

The Nile

The River Nile was fundamental for Egypt’s success as a civilization. As it served as one of Egypt’s only large sources of water, it is not surprising that mostly every city was built near it. When the Nile would flood, it would fertilize the land thus allowing for the cultivation of crops in the region. The Nile also boosted Egypt’s economy through trade routes and protection from barbarians. It was not solely important to Egypt for its economic use, however. The Nile was sacred to their faith in Ancient Egypt. They would even bury their dead on the West side of the river as that was where they believed the Underworld was located. Although the river extends throughout numerous countries, it is most famous for Egyptian use.

Coptic Christmas

Although we never spoke extensively about this festival, I found it very interesting to learn about. Despite Christmas being inherently Catholic, many Egyptians celebrate it as a secular holiday. In Egypt, however, they do not celebrate it on the traditional December 25 but rather on January 7. During Kiahk, the Coptic month leading up to Christmas, families sing songs and worship together. It is interesting that a Catholic holiday warrants such large festivals in Egypt despite Islam being roughly six times more popular. It is said that celebrations last for weeks after January 7.

Mohamed Salah

Soccer, or football, largely predominates all other sports in Egypt. The Egyptian National Club, who refer to themselves as “The Pharaohs”, have dominated in the African Cup of Nations in the past. For many, these football players serve as the inspiration for kids growing up. When the World Cup arrives, some areas will close down in order to support their nation. Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s best player, has made appearances in over 100 matches for his national team. In those games, he has scored just over 50 goals for Egypt. Salah undoubtedly serves as an inspiration for Egypt.

Lighthouse of Alexandria

Egypt is so well-known for its majestic pyramids that most forget entirely about its other ancient wonder of the world: The Lighthouse at Alexandria. Although it was damaged on multiple accounts and is completely destroyed now, it served as a representation of Egypt’s power and strength. In fact, this structure serves as the quintessential lighthouse for architects today. It was built in the 3rd century BCE and completed by Ptolemy II. Although the large Egyptian fort of Quaitbey has been built over the landmark, it is important not to forget the importance and beauty of the lighthouse that once stood there.

The Camp David Accords

The Camp David Accords, secret meetings held by Egyptian president Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, was overseen by the U.S. President Jimmy Carter. These meetings lasted for twelve days, and they altered Egypt’s relationship with Israel and other countries in the Middle East significantly. This would lead to Israel’s first formal agreement with another Middle Eastern country, and it would cool the scorching tension between the two countries. Prior to these agreements, Israel and Egypt had fought against each other on two separate occasions: The Six Days War and the Yom-Kippur War. It is reasonable that these two nations may still be at conflict today if Carter had not brought these two leaders together.

British Occupation of Egypt

A few years after the Suez Canal was opened, Egypt would soon find itself bankrupt. With civil war looming, the British and French governments were growing more and more nervous that their investment in this canal would be ruined. In order to avoid this, the British occupied Cairo and established Egypt as a “veiled protectorate.” As the British remained in Egypt for over three centuries, the European presence definitely had an effect. It showed Egypt how much more advanced “the West” was. Napoleon’s prescence, as well as Britain’s occupation, would lead to the Nadha Movement in Egypt.

Egyptian Nationality

In some instances, you can understand a lot about a country through their nation’s flag. The case is no different for Egypt. Their flag depicts a tripartite color scheme consisting of red, white, and black. In the middle, the Eagle of Saladin is depicted. This flag is based off of the 1952 Egyptian Revolution flag, and each color symbolizes a different thing. The red stripe refers to the unity of Egyptian blood in opposition to colonization. The white stripe refers to the purity of an Egyptian heart and peace. Lastly the black stripe refers to the dark times of foreign occupation. Saladin’s eagle represents the power and unity of Egypt. Although they have switched the flag multiple times over the past century, there seems to be an overarching theme of nationalism in all of them.

Egyptian Revolution of 1952

Probably the most important event in Egypt’s history from the last century was the Egyptian Revolution of 1952. It would forever change the lives of Egyptian citizens, and it would mark the end of British occupation. Just as the United States did in 1776, Egypt declared that it had seen enough of Britain’s rule and declared a revolution. The Egyptian citizens were tired of a monarchy and desired pure democracy. With the help of the Soviet Union, the Free Officers Movement were able to depose King Farouk and establish Muhammad Naguib as their first president. Egypt has changed drastically for the better from this revolution.

The Egyptian Sistrum

In today’s world, we are easily able to listen to pre-recorded music on applications such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Soundcloud. Popular music of today’s generation is created using computer generated sounds and audio. In prehistoric times, however, music was held much more sacred than it is today. It was a “gift from the gods” to be able to produce heavenly music. One of the instruments that the Egyptians created was the sistrum. It falls within the percussion family and has been assumed to be used in celebration of Bastet. Since Egypt has been a civilization for thousands of years, it has seen many transformations in music.

Ankh

Quite possibly one of the most famous symbols of ancient Egypt is the Ankh. Historians claim that this was possibly one of the first hieroglyphic symbols as its origin dates all the way back to the 1st Dynasty. Although it is disputed, the overall consensus on the meaning of the Ankh is that it symbolizes life. When we talked in class about the significance of Egypt on Christianity, it is not surprising that the Christian cross looks very similar to the Ankh. In fact, the Coptic cross looks almost identical with the only main difference being the circularity of the loop. The Ankh has an oval loop while the Coptic cross has a completely circular shape.

My American/Personal Identity:

Ethan Pritchard

Declaration of Independence

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” The Declaration of Independence has practical and ideological importance in American history. The signing of the Declaration of Independence freed the first Americans from British tyranny, spawned a national holiday (4th of July), and set some of the original guidelines for governance of the new nation. The Declaration of Independence and other founding documents will always hold deep significance to American history and government.

Wall Street

Capitalism, the foundational economic system of America, goes hand in hand with the free, enterprising nature of our governmental system. No place on Earth represents capitalism better than Wall Street in New York; billions of dollars worth of transactions take place up and down Wall Street every day, and the street serves as the beating heart of American financial markets.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, surprisingly, is not American. Built in France in the late 1800s and offered as a gift, the Statue of Liberty has embedded itself in American culture as a symbol of independence and acceptance. The thousands of immigrants who arrived in the United States by way of Ellis Island saw Lady Liberty as a beacon of hope when they entered New York Harbor by sea.

Disney World

Disney is one of America’s most iconic brands and demonstrates the United States’ worldwide dominance in entertainment media. Mickey Mouse and many other Disney characters are instantly recognizable across the globe; Disney brand theme parks exist in Florida, California, and many major cities across Europe and Asia. Disney and its associated movie studios are responsible for producing much of the video content seen across the country and the world.

National Mall

The National Mall spans from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol in Washington, D.C. Bordered by many other essential government buildings, the National Mall has served as the setting for many of the most iconic protests, celebrations, and gatherings in American history. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his seminal “I Have a Dream” to a crowd of a quarter-million people from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Furthermore, the Capitol building is an emblem of representative government and the checks and balances that safeguard American democracy.

National Parks

The United States is the world’s fourth largest country by area; as such, it contains many different climates and diverse natural phenomena. The picture above depicts Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park (a place I’ve visited personally). Acadia, Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Everglades, and 58 other parks make up the extensive, magnificent National Parks system of the United States.

American Music

Jazz, blues, hip-hop, country, bluegrass, Americana; these genres are just a few examples of American musical innovation. These distinctly American styles developed in different areas of the country and have taken on international importance as they grew increasingly popular. Additionally, much of the world’s popular music is recorded cities such as L.A., Nashville, Houston, and New York.

Broadway

Broadway Street is yet another cultural icon in New York. Lined by world-famous theaters and bookended by Times Square, Broadway is a quintessential example of New York City and the worldwide theater scene.

Sports

The picture features two of America’s most iconic sports brands: the New England Patriots and the Dallas Cowboys. The two compete in the NFL, one of the United States’ “big four” sports leagues alongside the MLB, NBA, and the NHL. Top athletes from across the globe come to America to compete in the world’s leading football, baseball, basketball, and hockey leagues (soccer, not so much…).

203

The 203 area code represents my home: southwestern Connecticut. My town is closely connected to the New York commuter culture due to rail line that runs along the coast of CT into New York City. Many towns in the 203 region share similar characteristics, demographics, and culture. I’ve lived in this area my whole life; no matter where I go, this corner of Connecticut will always be home to me.

Penfield Beach

The beach pictured above is the largest beach in the town of Fairfield, where I grew up. In the summer, Fairfield’s beaches are packed with visitors. My town (and others in the area) operates on a somewhat seasonal schedule that shifts as the weather turns warm. Many traditions (4th of July fireworks, Memorial Day events, etc.) are celebrated on the beaches.

Hopkins School

If you read the bottom of my high school’s logo, you’ll see a date not often associated with American history: 1660. It’s true; my high school was founded more than a century before the country officially existed. The school’s history is 360 years long, and I’m lucky and proud to have been a part of the past six.

Egyptian National Identity:

Pyramids and Sphinx

The Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza are timeless symbols on ancient Egypt. Recognized by anybody with knowledge of ancient Mediterranean history, these monuments definitively demonstrate the lasting marvel of ancient Egypt. Both continue to make appearances in films, books, and other depictions of Egypt.

Nile River

The Nile River was, and still is, the lifeblood of Egypt. The Nile is all that distinguishes Egypt from the dry, arid Sahara Desert that stretches to the west. The Nile causes certain sections of Egypt to be incredibly fertile, making it a valuable territory to hold in ancient days. As you can see from the map, nearly all important cities, monuments, and places of note are located within a few miles of the riverbanks.

Cairo

Cairo is the modern capital of Egypt. Built along the Nile at the south end of the delta, Cairo occupies a strategic position in Egypt. It is located near the site of ancient Memphis and many of Egypt’s most famous monuments. Cairo is an eclectic and fascinating patchwork of old and new, a modern capital for an ancient country.

Book of the Dead

The Book of the Dead symbolizes the ancient pagan religion of Egypt. Egyptians believed owning a book of the dead was essential for a successful transition into the afterlife, and book of the dead hold great historical significance, as they contain numerous insights into the beliefs and stories of ancient Egyptian religion.

Library of Alexandria

The Library and the Lighthouse of Alexandria are two legendary emblems of Egypt’s “second city”, Alexandria. Located along the Mediterranean Coast, Alexandria has always welcomed traders and travelers by sea. In ancient times, the Lighthouse of Alexandria guided sailors in through treacherous waters and low visibility. At the library of Alexandria, scholars preserved the knowledge of the many different cultures and religions that interacted in Alexandria.

Coptic Church

Above is an example of a Coptic church. This uniquely Egyptian sect of Christianity is an orthodox subgroup that was founded by Egyptians in the 1st century C.E. The Coptic Church claims Alexandria as its home, and although the Copts have lost wider influence in the region, eight percent of Egyptian’s identify as Copts.

Islam

Today, the overwhelming majority of Egyptians are Islamic. The man pictured above has a “prayer bump” on his forehead, a scar from praying with his head bowed to the ground five times per day over the course of many years. As Egypt matured as a nation, it grew farther away from Christianity and Judaism into the Muslim, Arabic-speaking country it is today.

Hieroglyphics

Hieroglyphics, the ancient Egyptian writing system, has fascinated scholars and common people for thousands of years. These intricately drawn words have been found scrawled on the walls of tombs, temples, and other historic sights. Though few know how to read hieroglyphics, nearly all this ancient language with the mystique of ancient Egypt.

Music

Traditional Egyptian music is far removed from the style of music we have become accustomed to in the United States. In the picture above, the musician is playing a lute, an instrument rarely heard, if ever, in American music. Musical differences make Egyptian music both foreign and fascinating to the American ear.

Egyptian Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is another example of notable cultural difference. The Egyptian diet incorporates traditional Mediterranean food, consisting of fish, light meat, grains, fruits, and vegetables. Like many aspect of Egyptian culture, the Mediterranean fare is combined with African and western Asian influences to form a unique (and delicious) brand of cuisine.

Squash

Egypt excels at one sport above all others: squash. Although the Egyptian national soccer team is very popular, and other sports draw lots of attention throughout the country, Egypt is by far most successful at squash. Five of the top ten highest ranked players in world (on both the men’s and women’s circuit) are Egyptian, including first, second, and third for both sexes.

Movie Industry

Egypt is the world’s third-leading producer of films, behind only Hollywood and Bollywood. Home to the largest studios in Africa and much of the Arabic-speaking world, Egypt exerts cultural influence through the films it exports. The movie poster above reflects a typical Egyptian film in Arabic.

July 4th, 1776

The Fourth of July celebrates the United States gaining independence from the British on July 4th, 1776. To me the Fourth of July is the “most American” holiday there is and it should be. Today, this day is celebrated with friends and family. It is a relaxing day in the heart of the summer filled with fireworks, beer and barbecue. This day serves as a reminder to all Americans of the generations that came before and sacrificed in order to establish and maintain the freedom we have and deserve today. Simply, Americans would not be Americans without this day in history.

Civil War

The Civil War is one of the most important times in America’s relatively brief history. This is because it was a time when the leaders of the country looked inwards and were self reflective. Instead of taking the easy way out and pretending to be oblivious to the wrongdoings that were taken place in certain parts of the country, action was taken. This war marks the beginning of America’s fight against racism, but not the end. Unfortunately, even today America and its citizens are not perfect and while slavery was abolished at the conclusion of the Civil War and the country as a whole has been trending in the right direction, racism still exist in society. The Civil War is a reminder that we were not perfect and we still are not, but there is always something that can be done.

J.P. Morgan

J.P. Morgan was one of the figure heads of the Gilded Age, a period in history of great industrialization in America. Morgan was a financier and a banker who was very successful during his lifetime. Morgan controlled some of the largest companies of his time including J.P. Morgan and Co., some of which still exist today. He and others during his time are responsible for how important business is today as a factor of U.S. wellbeing, as not only did he gain a lot of personal wealth but he also used this wealth to better the country. As an aspiring Finance major, J.P. Morgan and the way he was able to contribute to the modernization of the U.S. is an inspiration.

Entertainment

One of the most iconic tourist attractions in America is the Hollywood sign. The Hollywood sign itself does not impact Americans or my identity in a great capacity, but what it stands for does. Music, Movies, TV shows and other forms of Entertainment are represented by those nine large letters up on the hill and they hold a dominating influence in American society. Entertainment is something that I find to be of great value, whether it is learning a life lesson as a young child, learning about people and emotion, getting a laugh or finding inspiration. Movies, TV shows and music can provide all of this. While it may be true that these aspects of life are more meaningful through personal experience, entertainment can help us get there.

Being a part of a team

Being part of a team and learning the meaning of being a good teammate is one of the more impactful contributions in shaping my identity. Growing up playing sports my whole life means I have been on many different teams and this has introduced me to some of my closest friends. I’ve played on losing teams and winning teams and both have taught me a lot: working hard, sticking up for your teammates, being prideful and having an open mind. While these things help a team win, when implemented into everyday life they translate to success. Working hard in everything that you do benefits you but also those around you. Sticking up for the people you care about and making sure they are doing well. Being prideful in what you do, making sure you are proud of your actions. And having an open mind, knowing when you’re wrong or being open to learning something new. These are just some of the things that I learned from being on a team and they have positively impacted my identity.

Boston

While I do live in a suburb just outside Boston, I do consider the city to be my home as well. Boston and the people in it have a character and a sense of community that I love. It’s something that I notice when I am in town with my friends and family catching a game or dinner in the North End. Or if I am out of town and bump into someone wearing a t-shirt that represents Boston in some way. People are proud to be from Boston whether it is because it is a historical city or has four major sports teams that win and force us to bee the enemy to outsiders. This pride paired with the resilience exemplified after the Boston Marathon bombings tied together by a one of a kind accent is what makes the city so important to me. I have many great memories to thank the city of Boston for that have shaped my identity.

9/11

September 11, 2001 is a very important date in American history. On this day a terrorist attack devastated the nation, knocking down the World Trade Center, killing thousands of people. This day marks the launch of the War on Terror, an initiative started by the U.S. to fight global terrorism. September 11, 2001 proved to be a lesson to the United States that security is very important and afterwards many precautions were taken by the government to reduce the likelihood of something happening like this again. Although acts of terror have presented themselves since this day in history, our security continues to improve as we try to prevent future tragedy. An event like this impacts everyone and changes the way that people think about their safety. There is no doubt in my mind that, although I was young, 9/11 impacts the way that I think and in turn, impacts my identity.

Ellis island

America is known as a “melting pot” and for good reason: its inhabitants came to land from all over the world to create what it is today. Many of immigrants passed through Ellis Island in New York to make this a reality. This is true for members of my family, as I have roots from England and Ireland on my dad’s side of the family and roots from Russia and then Czechoslovakia now Czech Republic. All four of my mother’s grandparents (my great grandparents) immigrated to this country through Ellis Island, making it very important to my identity.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and one that is very important to the history of America. Growing up in a large extended family thanksgiving is one of those times that I got to see all the people I love at once and that fact that we all come together in big numbers sometimes makes it feel like the first thanksgiving. A truly American holiday, it is a time when we give thanks for our friends, family and everything else that is great in our lives. My past Thanksgivings are filled with delicious food and fond memories of playing football in my grandparents backyard with my cousins.

Family

My family is very important to me and while this photo only includes my immediate family, my idea of family includes the extended members as well. I am lucky in the sense that I am blessed with a supportive and caring family. Growing up my family always pushed me to be the best that I can be, but were never upset if I didn’t come back with success, instead they applauded the effort. I am sure that I would not be in the place I am in life without my family, they are a big part of my identity.

Sports

Professional sports are a large part of American culture. Being from an area with for major sports teams I see this first hand. Having something to root for and believe in provides a sense of bigger community as well as a sort of escape from the grind of everyday life for the common person; this makes professional sports very important to American society. To a “die hard” sports fan the joy of winning and the heartbreak of losing is certainly felt even though you aren’t actually the one playing the game. Some of my fondest memories are going to sports games with family and friends and in a time when all of the seasons are on hold, I realize how much these games mean to my identity.

Education

The right to an education is a constitutional right in the United States and an important one that defines American society. So much emphasis is put on getting a good education in this country and every year more and more people seek higher education because of it. Although it has become expensive, higher education is important and this fact has been stressed to me my whole life. I believe the stress on a good education to be a great thing as knowledge is power. Getting good grades were a top priority in my house, as I believe they are for many families across the country. For almost my whole life I have gone to school, I have been a student. School is where I have learned a lot of what I know and made some lifelong friends, so I think its fair to say it has had a large part in shaping my identity.

Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza and Egypt are linked in most people’s minds. For most people the Pyramids are the first thing to come to mind when thinking about Egypt. They were built for ancient Egyptian kings Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure around 2500 BCE were among the seven wonders of the ancient world and they still stand today. The pyramids represent Egypt’s long and important history for Egyptians, they are structures to be proud of. As a symbol of Egypt, the pyramids definitely impact an Egyptians identity.

The Nile River

The Nile River is the longest river in the world and it served as a staple ancient Egyptian’s stability. To Ancient Egyptians the Nile was necessary to maintain and preserve life in Egypt. Even though the Nile is not leaned on as much today, it is still a reminder of the people that came before and who lived and worked for the future of Egypt. The land near the Nile was one of the few places in Egypt that was fertile due to their desert landscape, so many people settled there and made it their home. Something so important to its ancestors must mean something to Egypt’s people today.

The Suez Canal

The Suez Canal is a man-made canal that was completed and opened for the first time in 1869. The Suez Canal has had a large impact on trade, when it was first opened it was a one-way canal that shortened the route from the Mediterranean Sea to Southern Africa. After the expansion of the canal it now supports two-way and more ships can pass through making it more efficient. Although it was in British control for a long time, but in 1956 the Egyptians gained control of the canal. Such an important part of commerce in Egypt’s recent history would have a profound impact on an Egyptian’s identity.

Al-Azhar Mosque

Pictured is the Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, it is one of Cairo’s earliest mosques founded in 970 C.E. This is a place of worship for Egypt’s most popular religion, Islam. Egyptians in general are religious people, whether it be Islam, Christianity, Judaism or another religion and the places of worship are sacred. Being a Muslim Egyptian, Islam would be a large part of your identity and so would the Mosque you worship at whether it be the Al-Azhar Mosque or not.

The Sphinx

The Great Sphinx of Giza is located near the Pyramids of Giza, it is one of the world’s largest monuments. The Sphinx is a prominent figure in ancient Egyptian mythology as well as Greek and Asian mythology. Symbolizing great wisdom and strength, the Sphinx was erected around the same time as the Pyramids by Pharaoh Khafre. Similar to the Pyramids, the Sphinx is one of Egypt’s great tourist attractions today. Egypt is one of the world’s fastest growing tourist destinations, tourism is great for Egypt’s economy.

Pharaohs

Egypt has had many great and well known rulers through out its history and many different names for these rulers. One group of rulers that seem to be especially important to Egypt are the Pharaohs. This is because the Pharaohs had a religious aspect to their rule, they were thought to be a representation of the gods in human form. The Pharaohs played an important role in Egypt’s dominance during ancient times and were a big reason why the civilization could survive and thrive when many other civilizations were dying out.

Egyptian Gods

The Ancient Egyptian gods were the deities that the ancient people of Egypt worshipped. Just as any deity or religion does, these gods provided Egyptians with answers to questions that they could not answer themselves and gave them faith and hope for the future. The ancient Egyptians had gods that coincided with many important aspects of life as well as physical things that human depend on like the sun.

Moses parts the Red Sea

When the Jewish people were enslaved in Egypt, it was Moses who freed them and parted the Red Sea. After this Moses climbs Mount Sinai to get the Ten Commandments. The fact that Egypt played such a large role in this and its proximity to the “holy land” or Jerusalem, makes Egypt a central location and very important to all religions. This is probably why today Egyptians are so religious and three major religions are practiced in the region.

Abbasid Dynasty

 

 

 

 

 

The Abbasid Dynasty ruled over the Islamic Empire in its peak from 750 to 1517 C.E. This was a long important period in Egypt’s history when its leaders were not constant in where they were from or their thought process. This period saw the crusades as well as many other attacks on Egypt and divisions among its people, but Egypt prevailed and continued to be independent.

The Book of the Dead

The Book of the Dead was very important to the ancient religion of Egypt. This book was thought to hold the keys to having a pleasant afterlife making it highly sought after. Today the Book of the Dead is studied by historians as it gives them insight on the way that ancient Egyptians thought and the ethics and morals that they held close.

Egyptian Revolution 1952

In 1952 there was an Egyptian Revolution. This marked the end of the monarchy in Egypt, establishing a republic, as well as Egyptian independence which entailed the end of British occupation and Sudanese control. The fact that the Egyptians revolted shows that they valued their voice and wanted to be heard. Egyptians would no longer tolerate the corrupt monarchy that had been in place and valued their independence showing their pride in being Egyptian. This would certainly have a role in an Egyptians identity as it is relatively recent and had big implications for the Egyptian public.

Aswan High Dam

The Aswan High Dam is a dam that was completed in 1970 in Aswan, Egypt that crosses the Nile River which created a reservoir called Lake Nasser. This dam allows the Nile flood to be controlled by man, improves navigation along the Nile and provides enormous amounts of electric power. This does hurt the naturally fertile soil along the river that depended on the flood of the Nile. This dam greatly impacts the lives of the Egyptians that live near the Nile and also affects other Egyptians which could affect their identities.

Andrea Candidato

The Nile

Growing up on the banks of the Nile, I remember the rich history of Ancient Egyptians and how their entire livelihoods were dictated by the behavior of the Nile. Even today, the floods of the Nile are important in providing fertile land for our farmers. Throughout history, the Nile’s foundations have determined the outcomes of seasons and wars.

the pyramids

The ancient pyramids, some of the oldest architectural structures in the entire world remind me of the hard work and tenacity of my people. Made to honor the pharaohs of the past in the afterlife, the pyramids represent the spirituality and ardor of Ancient Egyptians. Furthermore, the infamous Pyramids of Giza are a major tourist attraction that is a huge factor in the perception of Egyptian identity to the rest of the world. 

tombs

The tombs and cenotaphs that were made for Ancient Egyptians underscore how important the dichotomy of life and death was for my ancestors. While one’s death in the natural world may signify the end for others, for Ancient Egyptians, it only represented the beginning of a new life. Royalty received the best treatment in life and in death.

deities

The sun god Ra shows the strong connection between nature and vitality that Ancient Egyptians had. Being one of the earliest religions developed further emphasizes the importance of spirituality for my people. Ra is often depicted holding an ankh, which is an epithet for life and the Sun. The image below further underscores the importance of nature and the weather in religion.

 

Moses in Egypt

Moses’ presence of Egypt sets up my country as an epicenter for the religions and spirituality that ubiquitous even today. Over a century after Abraham, Jews were living in Egypt as slaves. Moses then led them out of slavery in Egypt and into the Holy Land. This ancient event sets a precedent for religion in Egypt and religion in the Holy Land today. Though I am Muslim, at the end of the day we worship the same God Allah and Egypt’s role in all three of the major monotheistic religions today show that there are more similarities than we give credit to.

ancient Alexandria

Ancient Alexandria reminds me of how my culture today is a result of many years of foreign influence and innovation. The arrival of Alexander the Great signifies the beginning of the Hellenistic Period in Egypt and the Ptolemaic Kingdom. Though Macedonians were appointed to senior posts, we Egyptians were still allowed to retain our culture. This fusing of cultures led to much innovation and prosperity especially in the city of Alexandria as it became an important port city for Egypt’s economy and had many architectural developments (i.e. the Library of Alexandria, the Lighthouse of Alexandria). The prominence of Ancient Alexandria signifies the importance of ingenuity and culture to me.

Fatimid mosques

The ancient Fatimid caliphate architecture emphasizes the importance of Islam in my identity as an Egyptian as well as Egypt’s national identity as an Arab state. Many mosques utilized architecture techniques from the east as well as the west and techniques established in Ancient Egypt such as the mastabas. The presence of those same mosques today exhibits the extensive history of Islam in Egypt and the importance of religion in our society.

Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali, otherwise known as the founder of modern Egypt is important for Egypt’s transition into the modern world and into its relationship with Western civilization. While tradition is important to Egyptians, Muhammad Ali engendered a cultural renaissance, political reform, and military campaigns that gave power to Egypt in the international sphere. I believe that in the modern world, we struggle with asserting our identity internationally and it is important to remember rulers like Muhammad who was responsible for establishing an identity outside the Muslim empire.

 

the Suez canal

The Suez Canal represents the heavy economic, political, and social anglo-french influence on my people in the 19th and 20th centuries. The canal changed the dynamic of global trade forever and the Europeans were benefitting off of its prosperity despite it being located in Egypt. It also played a role in the European colonization of Africa. English occupation would eventually lead to us fighting for our independence and realizing what it means to be a free state.

 

 

 

1952 revolution

The Egyptian Revolution of 1952 resulted in the abolishment of a monarchy and aristocracy in Egypt/Sudan, the establishment of a republic, the end British occupation, and the independence of Sudan. The revolution underscores the revolutionary spirit of my people and our virtue of independence. Furthermore, it developed an appreciation of the establishment of a republic in the face of a corrupt monarch.

camp David accords

The picture above shows President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem (with U.S. President Jimmy Carter in the middle) after the signing of multiple political agreements for Arab-Israeli peace. This illustrates the emphasis on peace in our national identity regardless of ideology. Despite there being much backlash from my people prior to the signing of the Camp David Accords, this was an important step in the direction of peace and tolerance regardless of religious background. This significant event is emblematic of my pacifist nature and value for spirituality regardless of tedious religious differences. 

Egypt and Saudi Arabia: Arab powerhouses

The image below shows President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi shaking hands with Saudi King Salman. This signifies the importance of Islam as Egypt currently stands as a political powerhouse in the Arab world. The strong relationship between the two Arab political powerhouses will set precedent for their influence in Middle East affairs as they are expected to sign power linkage contracts in May. With Saudi Arabia pledging $7 million for development projects in 2019 and assisting in the development of Egypt’s energy sector, I cannot help but be skeptical and call into question if this is a repeat of history (mirroring the economic developments that took place because of anglo-french assistance) and if any significant political leverage is coming into play. During times like this, it is important to maintain our pride and work on establishing ourselves as a political presence amongst the Arab nations whilst being wary. 

National Identity (United States)

Andrea Candidato

the American revolution

The revolutionary sentiment fashioned from the beginnings of the States has influenced my individualist spirit. I center my political and social beliefs around the tripartite ideology surrounding life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. While some things done and said by our Founding Fathers and in the Constitution may be outdated, I believe that those three unalienable rights that commenced the founding of this nation are timeless and still apply to American society today.

the myth of thanksgiving

Freedom From Want is the third of the Four Freedoms series of oil paintings done by Norman Rockwell in the midst of World War II. It has become an icon for the persistent American spirit in trying times and in the face of adversity. It connects to my personal identity with the importance of family and how despite any hardships that may come my way, my family and the different communities I identify myself within will always be there. However, along with the story of Thanksgiving, there is a myth that constantly reminds me of the bleak hidden history of the US and its relationship with Native Americans. To this day, I have the understanding that the land of the free is not inclusive to everyone even to this day.

The civil war

With the resurgence of pro-confederate sentiments, it is important for me to remember what this country fought for and how progress for everyone regardless of race is integral in this country. The bipartisan system set up during the founding of the States set the stage for an inherently divided country. However, today with partisan politics and increasing polarization dictating many topics and preventing progress, it is important sometimes to forget politics and unite. The outcome of the civil war was a reminder of what the United States stands for, regardless of political affiliation.

the gilded age and its muckrakers

The combination of the progressive ideals and entrepreneurship that arose during the progressive era defines my work ethic. As I strive to have the mentality of the successful robber barons of the era such as J.P. Morgan, Carnegie, and Ford I still try to take into consideration the progressive beliefs from that era that advocated for equity in the workplace and reform in favor of the betterment of the common man. As I take the lessons learned from this time in history into my own life, I try to put my foot forward in a way that forms not a gilded environment, but a golden one. 

Ellis island

When I was three-years-old, my parents, my brother, and I immigrated to the States from the Philippines. As an immigrant, my place in the U.S. is under much political debate and it is important for me to remember how this country was built by immigrants. On Ellis Island, many immigrants fleeing their country because of various incidents of strife for a better future in America mirrors my parents’ aspirations for a better career and a better education for their kids. As many of those passing through Ellis Island had to change their name to adhere to “American” standards, assimilation into American culture is integral if anyone wants to experience prosperity in the land where the grass is greener.

the California gold rush

The California Gold Rush was a time of excitement for expansionists and the mining industry. It also engendered an inundated migration of Asians into America as many of those working were coming from the Pacific. The picture and the California Gold Rush shows how heritage is just as important as nationality to me. Moreover, while hard work is the language of Americans, there was much anti-Chinese sentiment as they were accused of stealing jobs. This sort of rhetoric is still present today and I believe that America should recognize hard work and how people contribute to its overall economic prosperity regardless of heritage.

the roaring twenties

The Roaring 20s is one of my favorite eras in American history. A period of economic prosperity, cultural resurgence, and extensive social reform, this was a time of expedited progress. Much of the old America was being left behind and some recognize this time as an abandonment of previous morality. The eyes of Dr. TJ Eckelburg from The Great Gatsby represent how God is looking down on the gilded veneer of the 1920s. While there was much economic prosperity, there was also much philandering and carelessness that eventually led to the 1929 stock market crash as well as an overall cultural depression. Personally, the eyes of Eckelburg remind me that as I progress throughout my education and career, it is important that I make sure I do not abandon the ideals that humanize me, lest I crash or depress.

rosie the riveter

During WW2, women’s rights were advanced significantly. As the men were mobilized to the fight abroad, women were forced to take over the households and the important work in the homefront. Women were rushed into these typically masculine roles and the realization that certain tasks could be completed and certain roles assumed regardless of gender set a precedent for future women in the workplace. Since then, the workplace has evolved into an amalgam of identities and this diversity has proven to be beneficial for everyone.  While there has undoubtedly been immense progress, there is still work to be done for gender equity in the workplace. And as I further myself in my career, it is important for me to remember the women before me who fought for my advancement.

the cold war

Capitalism and a relatively laissez-faire economy are some of the main things that set America apart from other countries. With the rise of socialist sentiments, and along with that a quasi-second wave of the Red Scare, politics is experiencing an unprecedented era of polarization. Older Americans remembering the days of the oppressive Soviet Union are fearful of any semblance of socialist rhetoric, while younger Americans who have grown up in a post-Soviet world are recognizing some of the benefits of socialism in an increasingly fiscally disparate ecosystem. However, while it is important to stay true to personal ideology, it is equally as (if not more) important to desist when ideology is fought at the expense of others. During these times, I remember how proxy wars were fought at the expense of many people who were not even American nor Soviet.

“separate but equal”

I am extremely grateful for the education I have had and how privileged I have been to have studied at the institutions I have been in. Brown vs. Board of Education was a paramount case for the course of U.S. history as it is part of the reason I can study in such a diverse environment and learn from a variety of perspectives. I believe that diversity is an important tenet in education. Knowledge is made up of two sects, rationalism and empiricism. Rationality can be taught anywhere to anyone. However, empirical knowledge is gained through experience. As our distinct identities limit us to the things we can undergo, being surrounded by a diverse array of people who have had different experiences can only further educate us.

make love not war

The counterculture movement that arose during the late 60s and 70s marks a cultural schism between the radicalism of the youth and the traditional values of the 50s. This was the first time that “the teenager” had a distinct culture apart from whatever their parents believed. A generational divide existed regarding many social and political issues such as the Vietnam War, women’s rights, sexual liberation, experimentation with drugs, and antiestablishmentarianism. The hippies and pacifism of the 60s paved the way for modern-day social liberalism that acts as a significant constituent of today’s left-leaning Democratic party. This movement made way for the American ideals of individuality, creativity, and ingenuity that I value.

playboy president

Seeing the 45th President of the United States gloss the cover of Playboy magazine I feel signifies a shift in Americans’ attitude towards its government. The role of the politician has always been one of public exposition. Because of this, many politicians resort to a life of secrecy in order to hide their human flaws and truths with the aim to project a near-perfect image of excellence for the country. This “behind closed doors” mentality has led the American people to distrust their representatives to the point that they would elect someone president who displays his vices shamelessly (i.e. one who unabashedly posed for Playboy magazine). Donald Trump represents the everyman, not by having an extravagant lifestyle, but by his extravagant lifestyle being what people strive for. To those that may not know the details of his not-so-humble beginnings, Donald Trump represents the American Dream — both virtues and vices. I think him being elected as President will forever change the role of authority in America. A milieu of professionalism in government projects sanctimony; if we have learned anything from any of the previously mentioned events and images in this project, it is that at the center of America’s national identity is pride. And after 243 years of cultivating that pride through countless revolutions, reform, and wars, our pride is begging for relatability from people with power. I take his election as a lesson for myself: people hate thinking others are better than them; in a prideful country, humility is what wins. 

Ankh

The ankh has always been at the root of ancient Egyptian history. It is a symbol of life and one’s time on Earth as well as in the afterlife. I believe the ankh is also at the core of Egyptian culture to this day. People may not believe in ancient Egyptian Gods or the Egyptian afterlife anymore but it is still a part of their important history. Many things other than flags can also act as national symbols and the ankh is one of them.

Egyptian Flag

Just as the American flag is extremely important to national pride, I would imagine the Egyptian flag is as well. The colors all have meaning too. The black represents the period of foreign occupation. The white represents peace. The red represents the bloody sacrifices of Egyptian martyrs. Lastly, the eagle of Saladin represents strength. All of these values provide great remembrances for the Egyptian people in forming their national identity associated with their homeland.

Islam

Egypt’s most prominent religion by far is Islam. A key aspect of the Islamic faith is the hajj- a trip once in your lifetime to Mecca. Each time you pray as Muslim, too, you face the Kaaba which is the black cube at the center of Mecca. Religion affects the identity of all people and in Egypt, I would think most of the citizens consider Islam a major part of their identity (if they are religious).

Cats

Back in ancient Egyptian times, cats were extremely respected. This is because they were believed to be good luck and a representation of the cat goddess Bastet. Cats were even mummified back in ancient times. Today, I believe that though modern-day Egyptians don’t hold cats in the same regard, they still see cats as friends and worthy of good lives. Architecture and hieroglyphics of the animal probably influenced this as well as general domestication. Ancient Egyptian history undoubtedly corresponds with cultural identity and cats are very much a part of that history.

Pyramids of Giza

It’s impossible to think of Egypt and not think of the Pyramids of Giza. They are an architectural feat and a landmark across the globe. Such devotion and success in these projects emit a sense of wonder. I would think that Egyptians take immense pride in these steadfast pyramids and incorporate them into their national identity. Just as the Statue of Liberty is important to the United States, the pyramids serve as a unifying structure that displays the strength and resilience of Egypt.

Nile River

Though Egypt doesn’t rely on the Nile River like it did during ancient times, it is still an important staple in the Egyptian landscape. It’s the longest river in the world and provided life for millions of people over the years. Many of the dead were buried on the West Bank of the Nile because ancient Egyptians believed the afterlife was in the West. Your home contributes to your identity. For many Egyptians, the Nile was a second home. The Nile’s fertile ground was the birthplace of prosperity in Egypt. Today, the Nile is still fertile, and it is still quintessential in Egypt’s identity.

Tourism

Tourism is huge in Egypt. Every day there are thousands of tourists who came to Egypt to see places like the pyramids, the sphynx, and other ancient Egyptian architecture. To an Egyptian, this is a part of everyday life and instrumental in the country’s economy. Society in Egypt thrives on the money of tourists and the curiosity of people coming from distant lands. It also encourages citizens to learn more about their country’s history in order to act as tour guides or unfortunately scam unbeknownst visitors with fake relics. Regardless, tourism fills a huge portion of societal identity.

Cleopatra

Cleopatra is perhaps the most famous Egyptian ruler. This is mostly because of the various movies made about her life and love affairs with the likes of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. At the end of the day, she is extremely prominent in Egyptian history and culture. Her beauty and smarts have been remembered to this day and it is figures like her who are figureheads of Egyptian history. Identity is shaped by historical figures. Cleopatra is one of the most well known historical figures not only in Egypt but in the whole world.

Scarab

The scarab was a vital symbol in ancient Egypt. It symbolized the restoration of life and the cycle of birth. In more modern times, the scarab has become a popular pendant on necklaces in Egypt just like the Ankh. I think that many Egyptians probably feel a connection to their history and attempt to tap into it by wearing symbols on their body.

Hieroglyphics

Language is truly beautiful. It allows us to communicate, collaborate, and learn. Hieroglyphics is the first known language of ancient Egypt. It can be found all over Egyptian architecture and monuments that are still standing. This presence allowed current day people to learn about what daily life was like thousands of years ago (using the Rosetta Stone). On top of this, hieroglyphics are infinitely more interesting than ordinary alphabets. The pictures give even more sense as to what symbols and objects were important to Egyptians. I’d imagine Egyptians grow up proud to have been so close to such a beautiful language.

Coptic Orthodox Church

Although most Egyptians are Sunni Muslims, there are still Christians in the country. The vast majority of these Christians belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church which is located in Alexandria. Religion can always be related back to cultural identities and Christianity plays just as big a role in Egyptian history as Islam. The Egyptian Christians have most likely grown up learning about their religion’s roots and influences whether they be architectural, political, or societal.

Football

Just like every country that isn’t the United States, people absolutely adore football (soccer) in Egypt. Every-year football leagues and more occasional events like the Olympics provide a platform for athletes to represent their countries. Sports are a great unifier for countries that otherwise wouldn’t be able to understand each other. Every kid sees their favorite stars and believes they can be just like them. They believe that one day they can wear their nation’s colors and try to win something for their people. And so a part of their identity becomes their love for the sport but more notably, what the sport does to show off their home and their way of life.

Catholicism

There is nothing I hold more sacred than my faith. I have been surrounded by Catholicism throughout my entire life. In fact, the University of Richmond is the first secular institution that I have ever attended. Although it is not significantly different, it feels abnormal to not be able to openly discuss my faith with people. I have found that many people simply aren’t willing to discuss this topic or they disagree heavily with my beliefs. I wear a cross pendant attached to a chain necklace as a constant reminder of my dedication to Catholicism. In my bedroom at home, I am surrounded by numerous Catholic icons including crosses, rosaries, and even a Pope Francis bobble-head on my nightstand. My faith has defined me in countless ways, and I consider its value priceless.

Cistercian Preparatory School

What would you think if I told you that I can name every single monk in this picture? My attendance at Cistercian Preparatory School has influenced my life in ways that I could never have expected. My “Form Master”, Fr. Ambrose (2nd Row, 4th from the Right), was tasked with mentoring my 41 classmates and I from when we started in 5th grade until we graduated in 2019. I would wholeheartedly consider him “a second father” to me, and he was there for us in the thick-and-thin. He guided us spiritually, taught us theology and latin, and even played sports with us during lunch period. Taking core classes and electives taught by Cistercian monks was definitely bizarre, but I would not have it any different way.

Texas

Recently, I have noticed there are a significant number of stereotypes made about Texans. These can range from ludicrous to condescending. For example, some people believe that we only wear overalls and cowboy boots down here in the south; while others believe that we are inherently less intellectual. This is disappointing because Texas is a very special place to me. With its historical background, Texans experience many different cultural experiences. As Texas shares a border with Mexico and was once home to vaqueros, Hispanic culture surrounds our daily life. Whether it’s attending Quinceañeras or celebrating Dia de los Muertos, Hispanic culture is an inherent part of Texas life. I have even decided to minor in Spanish as a result of this.

The United States of America

The United States is often described of as “The Land of Opportunity” or “The Melting Pot” because people of all backgrounds come here for a better life. We built this country on the idea of “freedom”. Freedom, however, means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. To women, it could potentially mean freedom of oppression. To publicists and writers, it could potentially mean freedom to publish whatever they believe. To devotees, it could potentially mean freedom to believe in whatever they so wish. To me, it means freedom to do whatever I want with my life and to pursue whatever job interests me. I am thankful that America allows us with such liberties and I believe it is an inherent part of my identity.

Whataburger

You may be asking yourself “How can a fast-food restaurant possibly contribute to someone’s national identity?” Well, it is clear that you have never tasted a Whataburger hamburger or patty melt. Whataburger, however, is a part of my identity as a result of the countless memories I have made there with my teammates and friends. After every Friday night football game, my entire school flocks to the restaurant in order to celebrate our victory together. We would spend hours upon hours in those booths laughing and talking with each other. When they would lock the doors at 11 o’clock, we would open the tailgates of our trucks and continue celebrating. It was our school’s tradition, and it became a part of every student’s life. In fact, my entire grade went to the Whataburger before our graduation party commenced.

Brighton & Hove Albion F.C.

A majority of American kids grow up watching the NFL, NBA, and MLB. I fell in love with a different sport, however. I would attend F.C. Dallas games growing up, and I even got to be a ball boy when they played the New York Red Bulls. Recently, I have gotten into the English Premier League and the soccer club Brighton & Hove Albion in particular. Before COVID-19, I would spend my mornings watching EPL matches as well as the Champions League. When I first became a fan of European soccer, I didn’t want to choose a football club that was already dominating. After watching Brighton & Hove Albion play, I knew I had found the right team.

Cistercian Hawks Football

Joining the Cistercian Hawk football program has had a profound impact on my life. Although the coaching staff was hired to coach us into being a winning football team, they did not forget the importance of molding us into exceptional student athletes. They coached us in life as well as on the field. They stressed the importance of punctuality and respect. Coach Burk, my head coach, used to say “Be great at the things that take no talent.” You don’t need to have years of practice or talent to be respectful, to be punctual, and to give all of your effort. As a member of my team’s leadership council, it was my duty to instill our motto on the team. We lived our lives by the acronym “E.A.T.” meaning effort, excellence, attitude, aggressiveness, toughness, teamwork. The idea was that these will help you succeed both on and off the field.

Xbox

When I received my first Xbox in December 2015, it did not take very long for me to be hooked. When the school bus dropped me off, I would run to my house and get on my Xbox as soon as I could. I would spend my entire afternoon playing Fifa 15 and NBA 2K15 online in “Xbox Live Parties”. In school, there wasn’t any time to have fun with each other. Xbox allowed us to really bond and get to know each other outside of school. With COVID-19 sweeping the nation, my high school friends and I have found ourselves doing the exact same thing five years later. Even after all going to separate colleges, we are still as close as ever.

Alfred Hitchcock

“There is no terror in the bang, only the anticipation of it”

The role cinema plays in our society is very underappreciated. When we are growing up, we self-consciously emulate the characters we see on television and in movies. Topics such as this one were frequently discussed in one of my high school electives that focused on the film-maker Alfred Hitchcock. We would analyze his movies frame-by-frame, and try to understand the reason he used a certain camera angle or a specific lighting. By the end of the course, I had watched almost all of Hitchcock’s movies. This class has completely shifted the way I watch cinema, however. I used to only focus on the dialogue and the characters during movies, but now I look at the smaller details such as “macguffins” or certain camera angles. Out of all of Hitchcock’s movies, I enjoyed “I Confess” the most. Although it is one of his lesser known works, I found the plot to be one of the most entertaining that I have seen.

Theta Chi Fraternity

By joining a Greek-life organization, you are condemning yourself to a significant amount of scrutiny from the public. All throughout the United States there are people fighting for the removal of fraternities and sororities on college campuses. Unfortunately, these activists fail to acknowledge the positives of joining the Greek-life system. Joining Theta Chi Omicron this semester has had an extremely positive impact on my life. I have created friendships with fellow brothers that will last an eternity. Before I rushed Theta Chi, I was pretty intent on transferring schools. Once I joined, however, the gaping hole was suddenly filled by this community. Without the Greek-life system, specifically my fraternity, I may not have been coming back next year. Theta Chi has definitely impacted my life for the better.

Billy Joel

Quite possibly the greatest musician of our time, Billy Joel has had a profound impact on my life. I was enthralled by his music from the moment I first heard it. The reason I enjoy his music so much is the power behind his lyrics. He doesn’t always write what people want to hear but rather what people need to hear. Interestingly, his music extends from melancholic to cheerful and everywhere in between. Whatever mood I am currently in, there is always a Billy Joel song that will fit just right. Personally, my all-time favorite song by him is “Only the Good Die Young”. If you are familiar with this song, you know that it has pretty anti-Catholic remarks. How can I hold my religion so sacred and at the same time support a song that bashes it? Well, the message Billy is trying to share with his listeners is not simply that Catholicism is bad. Instead, he is stressing the importance of living our life to the fullest even if it means disobeying religious dogma once in a while.

My Family

My family has always supported my interests as well as pushing myself to discover my identity on my own. Although they aren’t passionate about most of the things on the list, they still encourage me to do whatever makes me happy. I am very thankful to have their support. My family has always motivated me to strive for excellence in everything to do, and they are always there for me if I don’t succeed. They have molded me into the man that I am today, and I will forever be grateful for them.

Baseball

Baseball is known as America’s past time so it seemed fitting to put it first on my list. Growing up, I started playing baseball at the age of six and played for eight years after that. I played games on the weekends and practiced during the week in both the fall and spring. I would watch the Philadelphia Phillies on TV all the time and would go to the games since the stadium was just 20 minutes away. Being in the baseball world always made me feel more connected to my country because I feel that it is such a staple in American culture. I also idolized people like Jackie Robinson who broke the barriers of societal norms and paved the way for anyone to be able to play the sport they love.

Christianity

My family was originally Catholic. But, my grandfather on my mother’s side divorced his first wife and as you probably know, the Catholic church isn’t that tolerant of this and even less so 60 years ago. So my family became Episcopalian and that’s how I grew up. My relationship with religion has been on and off, I hated going to church as a child like most kids do and we started going less and less as my parents had high-stress jobs and just wanted to rest on Sundays. As I got older I essentially became an atheist mostly because I didn’t agree with many of the Christian values that I felt alienated others. More recently, I’ve begun to reexamine religion and have found some practices and goals within Christianity that I do agree with. I determined that I could shape my own religious identity while remaining a faithful person. It’s always been interesting to me how ingrained religion is with our national identity.

New Jersey

I spent most of my childhood in a town named Cherry Hill, New Jersey. It is about 20 minutes outside of Philadelphia. I would not be who I am today without Cherry Hill. My best friends in the whole world are there and every time I go and stay with my best friend’s family, I feel as if I actually am in their family. They’re my home away from home if you will. This is more of a personal identity because I believe a large portion of my personality was formed here in New Jersey. My old neighborhood and community shaped a lot of who I am and what I believe in.

9/11

I was born on February 2, 2001. My parents have told me stories of the day of 9/11 and I think that even if I personally wasn’t affected, it’s still a huge part of my and most of America’s national identity. Such tragedies are some of the only things that band people together, and everyone has their “where was I” when 9/11 happened. My parents told me they had to pick me up early from daycare as no one knew if more attacks were coming. They, just like everyone else, were deathly afraid. My own cousin was a firefighter in New York City but coincidentally had the day off. There’s a chance I could have never gotten to know him if he had been one of the heroes rushing into the building to try to save lives. A world-changing event like this undoubtedly has a place in my identity.

Hip Hop

Hip hop has played a big role in my life. I’ve been listening to it since elementary school and I think it’s influenced how I see the world. It’s hard to see how a white middle-class kid could relate to rappers from the hood. But music is a universal language and I think it’s the most beautiful way to connect to one another regardless of backgrounds, cultures, and values. Hip hop has taught me open-mindedness, the importance of family ties, loyalty, and many other things. I have an appreciation for the whole genre and especially the ones who pioneered it. (NWA is just one example). The genre has also had a massive impact on American culture and identity.

Video Games

I thought it’d be remiss of me to not include video games in my personal identity. This one was my first “real” game and I played it with mostly my neighborhood friends. But I also would play online with complete strangers and I attribute a lot of my speaking and interpersonal skills to my interactions online. I don’t love video games that much but I really enjoy competing against other people and making friends with people I wouldn’t have otherwise. I still play games today with my friends and it’s a great way to stay connected now that everyone is in college. A lot of my societal identity was built right there in the virtual world.

Apollo 11

Here I have a picture of a man on the moon. I think it is a perfect representation of national pride. Everyone in the world wants their country to be the best, and the United States putting a man on the moon created a sense of national identity. It proved that we are a nation of thinkers, scientists, innovators, risk-takers, and dream setters. Moments in time like this shape civilizations for years as citizens can look back on them and feel a sense of fuzziness, a sense that they were a part of something greater than themselves. As a kid, I was dazzled by things like astronomy, archaeology, and marine biology. I believe I gained my curiosity by learning about human feats such as this one.

Film

Cinema and Hollywood have shaped a lot of who I am. The lessons you learn from them are invaluable and they also give the viewer the ability to see places and situations they wouldn’t normally see. Whether it’s a coming of age story or an action film, I would argue that they all provide some value to the human experience and contribute to our identity. I know my identity has changed over the years (albeit minutely) after watching certain noteworthy films. There’s also uniqueness to American cinema that can’t be found elsewhere.

Revolutionary War

The Revolutionary War is instrumental in every American’s national identity. It’s a symbol of our free-spiritedness and desire to govern ourselves. Democracy prevailed after the Revolutionary War and led to how government runs today. With all the issues involving the government over the years, it is still at least partly responsible for our growth as a nation and the protection of our families. The Revolution sent the rest of the world a message, the United States is not to be trifled with. We are a nation of lovers but also one that protects liberties. This message is vital to our identity.

Ellis Island

This picture is the inside of Ellis Island. The United States is a nation of immigrants and I’m obviously no exception. On my mom’s side, I have Czech and Irish ties. On my dad’s side, I have mostly German roots. My great grandparents and great-great-grandparents came through Ellis Island to the United States looking for a better life and I have my life to thank them for. Though I have a strong national identity with the United States, I also see my identity through where my family came from. The United States is not the United States without immigrants and so it is imperative that the mixing pot culture be apart of national identity.

Judaism

The town I grew up in is predominantly Jewish. I actually even went to a Jewish pre-school. It was the best one in town and my mom joked that it was the Old Testament anyway so I’d be learning the same stories as the ones in a Christian pre-school. A large majority of my friends were Jewish and I went to about 17 bar/bat mitzvahs, give or take. This interesting situation played a huge part in my religious identity as I was able to get a deeper look than most into another religion. I feel that being around others with different beliefs strongly influenced my identity and openmindedness.

Sports

The last image relating to my national identity is the four major sports leagues. My dad introduced sports to me at a very young age and ever since I’ve fallen in love with them. I’ve played and watched sports all night. They instill such important values in you such as teamwork, dedication, work ethic, and confidence. There’s a reason why sports are so important to people in the United States. They are a huge part of our national identity. Competition is in our DNA and sports offer that. Even my societal identity was influenced as I formed relationships with people solely based on meeting them while playing sports. Some like to deem sports as a waste of time, but I believe they are quintessential to life as we know it in one form or another.