Changing Culture in America

Changing Culture in America

US History

Introduction

In the first part of the 19th century, American society changed not only economically, but also culturally. The rapid industrialization in the north, ever greater expansion westward, a wave of immigration from Europe—particularly Ireland—as well as a greater awareness and activism about slavery brought forth new cultural ideas.

This period of time—corresponding roughly with the presidencies of James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson—is the first great period of a reform spirit in America.

Directions

Part 1 – Movie Poster (15 points)

In groups of no more than three, you will complete the following project worth 15 points in class:

• Read your group’s assigned materials on one aspect of change in American society.
• Create a movie poster for a fictional film that “stars” the major figures discussed in your readings. In order to obtain at least 12 points, your poster must include:
• A movie title that sums up the concepts in your readings.
• At least two “blurbs” that hint at what the “plot” of the movie (i.e. this cultural change) is all about.
• At least one major figure (the “stars” of the film) from that period and the “roles” they played.
• At least two “fake” movie reviews from real people of that time expressing why they liked the film.
• A listing of where the movie can be seen, that is, where it would most likely be well-received.
• Graphics that enhance and represent your film. (Pictures of major figures will be supplied.)
• In order to obtain a grade higher than 12 points, your movie poster should also include one extra blurb, one extra major figure, one extra movie review.
• Present your movie poster at the end of class, explaining its major ideas.

Part 2 – Short Write-up of Movie Posters (5 points)

As other groups present their posters, you will record the major ideas from other posters on the chart below. In order to obtain the full 5 points, you must complete each chart cell including the section for your own movie poster.

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