Nationalism and Sectionalism

As we entered the class of Social Studies, we were asked to be seated according to our laptop numbers (one-to-one laptops). Luckily, this class awakened us from our Spring Break mode by starting us off with tons of information.


First, we saw a title, Nationalism and Sectionalism in bold letters up on the screen. “What can this title lead us to learning?” I thought. Nationalism…what does that mean? National pride or spirit. Because America had just won the War of 1812, Americans felt strong patriotism about their country since they’ve won against Great Britain. As a result to the war and their victory, Americans are in an “Era of Good Feelings” where they can trade peacefully among themselves and be unified once again. Unfortunately, after around 35 years, the American Civil War occurred, dividing the North and South. Then, the definition of sectionalism would appear clearly now that we know what nationalism means. Regional or local spirit. After seeing the meaning to both nationalism and sectionalism; how did it go from American’s nationalism to sectionalism? Hopefully, we will find the answer to this question further on in the chapter.


The most important part of this class was when we were lectured about how transportation played a big role in the American economy and made it self sufficient. At this time, Yoona Cha and Eric Kim had supported us by telling the class the definition of self sufficient, meaning independent. Mr. Armstrong asked us to discuss the answer to how the transportation revolution helped to build the American economy. The Cumberland Road (1811-1837) was the first road built by the federal government and now that there is actually a road to comfortably transport from one place to another; it made trading easier. Not only is it easier for trading, but many people received opportunities by stopping at the inns and restaurants. The Erie Canal was an expansion developed later on. This canal allowed America to become connected to Canada by trading. Since it is a waterway, it was faster, easier, cheaper (saved money), and carried a larger load. Finally, the steamboat was built. Yet, the class could not identify the difference between a steamboat and an ordinary boat. Mandy Myung led us to the answer which was that the steamboats could go upwards or any direction where the other boats have to go along with the wind.

To wrap up the class, Mr. Armstrong gave us time to work on our Week 10 Immersion. Although it was one tiring and difficult class, I was able to understand clearly about our topic.

Jenny J. 8B