Philanthropy constitutes an integral and important part of American culture, and “the United States probably outstrips all other [countries] in the size and autonomy of its nongovernmental sector” (Gardner ix). Originally, the term ‘Philanthropy’ derives from the Ancient Greek phrase ‘philanthropia’ and means “love to mankind” (“Philanthropy” 1989). Today, the American philanthropic sector is unique in its dimension and organization among all countries in the world and “no other nation manages its religious, cultural, social service, health care, and educational activities in this way” (Hamrack xv). To explore the role of philanthropy in the United States of America, it is necessary to analyze the number of cultural and historical influences and events from which the Philanthropical American Tradition emerged.
Affected by the Native American culture, Puritan beliefs, the Mayflower Compact from 1620 up to the adaption of the democratic U.S. Constitution in 1789 and the phenomena of U.S. patriotism, a rich tradition of philanthropy developed in the USA. By providing the impact of historical events shaping the Philanthropical American Tradition, it is due to the multitude of influences only possible to examine the most important ones in this paper. The impact of these historical influences on the Philanthropical American Tradition will be exposed in consideration of the American culture and character. Finally, against the background of the strong American Philanthropical Tradition, the importance of America’s non-profit sector will be revealed from a historical perspective.
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Historical Impacts on the Philanthropical American Tradition
- 2.1. Native American Philanthropy
- 2.2. The Mayflower Compact (1620)
- 2.3. Religious Influences
- 2.3.1. Puritan Beliefs and Calvinism
- 2.3.2. Freedom of Religion
- 2.4. The U.S. Constitution (1789)
- 2.4.1. Democracy and Philanthropy
- 2.4.2. Statutory Framework for Philanthropy
- 2.4.3. Tax Deduction
- 2.5. U.S. Patriotism
- 3. American Philanthropy and the National Character
- 4. Revealing the Philanthropical American Tradition
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper aims to explore the historical development of the American philanthropic tradition, examining key influences that shaped its unique character. It investigates how various historical events and cultural factors contributed to the establishment and growth of the American non-profit sector.
- The impact of Native American giving practices on the development of American philanthropy.
- The role of the Mayflower Compact and early colonial governance in fostering a culture of collective action and mutual support.
- The influence of Puritan beliefs and the concept of religious freedom on philanthropic initiatives.
- The impact of the U.S. Constitution and its framework on the legal and tax structures supporting philanthropy.
- The connection between American patriotism and the growth of the philanthropic sector.
Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: This introductory chapter establishes the significance of philanthropy within American culture, highlighting the unique scale and autonomy of the U.S. non-governmental sector compared to other nations. It emphasizes the need to analyze the historical and cultural influences that shaped the American philanthropic tradition, setting the stage for the subsequent exploration of Native American influences, the Mayflower Compact, religious impacts, the U.S. Constitution, and American patriotism as formative factors in this tradition.
2. Historical Impacts on the Philanthropical American Tradition: This chapter delves into the historical forces that molded the American philanthropic tradition. It begins by examining the significant influence of Native American cultures of giving, highlighting their emphasis on sharing, mutual responsibility, and the inherent honor in both giving and receiving. The chapter then moves to the Mayflower Compact, demonstrating how the early colonists' collaborative spirit and commitment to the "general good" laid the foundation for future philanthropic endeavors. The role of religious beliefs, particularly Puritan values and the freedom of religion guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution, in shaping philanthropic attitudes is further discussed. The chapter also explores the impact of U.S. patriotism in fostering a sense of national unity and encouraging charitable giving. In essence, this chapter provides a multifaceted historical analysis of the development of the American philanthropic tradition, tracing its roots from Native American traditions to the establishment of a democratic government.
Keywords
American philanthropy, Native American giving, Mayflower Compact, Puritanism, religious freedom, U.S. Constitution, democracy, patriotism, non-profit sector, voluntary associations, charity, historical influences, cultural impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this text?
This text provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of the American philanthropic tradition. It explores the key influences and events that shaped its unique character, examining its roots in Native American giving practices, the Mayflower Compact, religious influences, the U.S. Constitution, and American patriotism.
What historical periods and events are covered?
The text covers a broad historical span, starting with Native American philanthropy and progressing through the Mayflower Compact (1620), the impact of Puritan beliefs and religious freedom, the establishment of the U.S. Constitution (1789), and the ongoing influence of American patriotism on the philanthropic sector.
What are the key themes explored in the text?
Key themes include the impact of Native American giving practices, the role of early colonial governance in fostering collective action, the influence of Puritan beliefs and religious freedom, the legal and tax structures supporting philanthropy as established by the U.S. Constitution, and the connection between American patriotism and charitable giving.
What are the chapter summaries included in this preview?
The preview includes summaries for the introduction and the chapter on "Historical Impacts on the Philanthropical American Tradition." The introduction establishes the significance of American philanthropy and its unique scale compared to other nations. The second chapter delves into the historical forces that shaped American philanthropy, exploring Native American giving, the Mayflower Compact, religious influences, and the role of the U.S. Constitution and American patriotism.
What is the purpose of the text?
The text aims to explore the historical development of the American philanthropic tradition and examine the key influences that shaped its unique character. It investigates how various historical events and cultural factors contributed to the establishment and growth of the American non-profit sector.
What keywords are associated with the text?
Keywords include: American philanthropy, Native American giving, Mayflower Compact, Puritanism, religious freedom, U.S. Constitution, democracy, patriotism, non-profit sector, voluntary associations, charity, historical influences, cultural impacts.
What is the structure of the text?
The text is structured with an introduction, followed by chapters detailing the historical impacts on the American philanthropic tradition, the connection between American philanthropy and national character, and a concluding chapter revealing the philanthropic American tradition. A table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords are also included.
For whom is this text intended?
While not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature and academic approach suggest the text is intended for academic use, researchers, or students studying American history, philanthropy, or related fields.
- Quote paper
- Stephan Katzbichler (Author), 2012, Historical Impacts on the Philanthropical American Tradition, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/262272
