RST 242 Week 3
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University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign *
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242
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History
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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Week 3 Reflection Narrative Paper
Noah DuVal
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
RST / NRES / LA 242: Nature and American Culture
Dr. Jacob Fredericks
September 10, 2023
Frederick Jackson Turner's frontier thesis, as described by Opie (1998), posits that the
American frontier was not just a physical boundary but a dynamic force in shaping the
nation's character and institutions. In simpler terms, Turner believed that the continuous
existence of the American frontier, and the westward movement associated with it,
played a pivotal role in molding the American spirit, promoting individualism, democracy,
and economic mobility.
The act of moving onto what was perceived as "empty land" during the 19th century
was emblematic of quintessential American values. It represented the pursuit of
opportunity, individualism, and manifest destiny – the belief that Americans were
destined to expand across the continent. This westward movement was seen as a
testament to the American spirit of adventure, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life.
The land, vast and untamed, was a blank canvas for settlers to shape their destinies,
embodying the very essence of freedom and self-determination that the nation held
dear.
In today's context, the traditional notion of a "frontier" as uncharted territories waiting to
be settled might seem obsolete. However, metaphorical frontiers still exist. These could
be in the realms of space exploration, technological advancements, or even social and
political arenas where boundaries are continually being pushed. For instance, the digital
realm, with its ever-evolving landscape, can be seen as a modern-day frontier.
While I appreciate Turner's perspective and recognize the allure of the frontier in
shaping American identity, I also believe that the notion of a "frontier" comes with its set
of challenges. The idea of "empty land" is problematic, as it often disregards the
indigenous populations that lived on these lands long before European settlers arrived.
This mindset led to the displacement and suffering of many Native American
communities.
Personally, the romanticized idea of living on a frontier, with its promise of adventure
and discovery, is enticing. However, the realities of frontier life – the hardships,
uncertainties, and potential conflicts – make me hesitant. The frontier represents both
the best and worst of human endeavors, and while its allure is undeniable, it's essential
to approach it with caution and respect.
Reference:
Opie, J. (1998).
Nature's Nation: An Environmental History of the United States
.
Harcourt Brace College Publishers.
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