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Essay / Migration to the Appalachian Hinterland in Albion's Seed, a book by David Hackett Fischer
This chapter from David Hackett Fischer's book, Albion's Seed, focuses on the migration of people from northern England to the Appalachian hinterland. This period of migration took place between 1717 and 1775. Although this migration took place over many years, approximately two-thirds of travelers from England arrived during the decade 1765-1775 (605-608). But these British settlers were not alone. Thousands of immigrants flooded America's shores from Northern Ireland and Scotland. A surprisingly high number of these new arrivals were women, with a ratio of around 149 men for every 100 women coming from Scotland in the 1770s (610). Because these immigrants came from several European regions, there was a very diverse mix of ideas when they came together in America. Fischer analyzes the “traditions” (cultural customs and societal values) of these migrants and the integral effects they had on Appalachian culture and American society as a whole. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The traditions of these backcountry settlers were complicated and multi-layered, but Fischer summarizes them and draws connections between them in a way that paints a clear picture of how this hinterland society functioned. From their ideas about family and marriage to their ideas about rank, power, and religion, their traditions created a unique societal environment that helped shape the future of American culture. As in many other societies, their religious ideas penetrated every other area of their culture. These hinterland churches were less inclined to accept the strongly structured parishes with established clergy that many other British settlers used as a means of worship. But these people from the countryside remained attached to their religious beliefs which were an integral part of their culture (703). Because these immigrants came from diverse backgrounds, many religious faiths were represented during this era, and their religious habits formed the basis of their culture. their society at this time in colonial history. The Presbyterians particularly left their mark in these parts of the Appalachian Mountains of America during this era. Although their beliefs were strongly based on the Bible, religion and superstition were often intertwined in these remote societies. People became obsessed with the idea of witchcraft and witchcraft, much of which is still practiced in these parts of America in modern times. Folklore about witches and goblins living in the mountains became as easily credible as the biblical stories themselves (709). This blend of religious faith and superstitious ideas that began with these early settlers is still alive and well today in many hinterland societies. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The flow of Immigrants from northern England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland to remote parts of America over nearly 60 years brought a new culture and diversity to the American cultural landscape. With them, they brought their customs and traditions, heavily influenced by their religious ideas, as is the case in most societies. Fischer's analysis of this flow of American newcomers highlights a complex mix of popular traditions coming from..