Anglicization and Americanization Term Paper

Anglicization and Americanization

While the revolutionary period in American history may have been perceived by many as the most glorious time in the history of colonial America, the truth is that there were still some people who did not believe in Independence and trusted the British. These were called the Imperialists and whether they were British themselves or simply the victims of colonial rule who subscribed to British way of life, they all viewed Britain as a benevolent force that was working for the so-called benefit of the British American colonies. British way of life, English values and customs, and their way of thinking was introduced in the colonies merely to keep all colonies glued together and loyal to British Monarchy.This is an interesting paradox. On the one hand, colonies were becoming more sophisticated and enlightened because of their adoption of British lifestyle and ideals, but on the other, this sophistication was becoming a threat to the British Imperial rule as it was felt that with increased knowledge, colonies would no longer want to be ruled by British masters. To remove or control this threat, the British kept introducing their customs and values believing this would help provide a common identity. This transportation of ideology was known as Anglicization and many American colonies, most prominently Massachusetts was a good example of how Anglicization had affected lifestyle and values in American colonies.

However it was the heavy-handedness of….....