History 201 It Can Be Clearly Seen Throughout United States

Hist 201it Can Be Clearly Seen Throughout United States History That A

HIST 201 It can be clearly seen throughout United States history that Americans have often equated wealth with success. This connection between wealth and success was established early on in American history, demonstrated by the fact that many early European settlers were motivated by the chance of great wealth (Coming to America Documents, Week 1). This definition of success was also exhibited by the lives of Victorians in the North who demonstrated their success through their wealth and dividing themselves from the working class (Market Economy Lecture, Week 6). This definition of success is not the same as what the Holy Bible teaches. While the Bible does not condemn wealth per se, there are many warnings about equating the success of your life with materials possessions.

Jesus tell us: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26). Instead of wealth, the Christian definition of success is living a life that glorifies God. In fact, the Bible tells us that “whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). I know that I have been tempted personally to equate success with wealth.

Much of what we are taught on social media, television, or celebrity culture is that a successful person has the biggest house, the nicest cars, or the best clothes. I always need to remind myself of Hebrews 13:5: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’.

Paper For Above instruction

The concept of success in American history has long been intertwined with material wealth. From the early European settlers to modern-day society, there has been a persistent association between financial prosperity and personal achievement. This essay explores how this perception took root in American history, contrasts it with biblical teachings, and reflects on the personal and societal implications of equating wealth with success.

In the earliest periods of American colonization, wealth was a primary motivator for many Europeans emigrating to the New World. As documented in primary sources from Week 1, many settlers sought economic opportunities that promised riches and material comfort. This pursuit of wealth was seen as a marker of success and a way to establish social standing. The accumulation of land, gold, or trade wealth became standard indicators of achievement and prosperity, shaping early American cultural values that emphasized material accumulation as a sign of progress.

Moving into the 19th century, particularly during the Victorian era, the linkage between wealth and success became even more apparent. The Victorian North exemplified how upper classes displayed their economic status through elaborate houses, fashionable clothing, and conspicuous consumption. These displays of wealth functioned as social symbols, delineating class and success. The cultural emphasis on material possessions reinforced the idea that material success was a reflection of personal virtue and social legitimacy. Consequently, the pursuit of wealth became ingrained in American identity, contributing to a competitive ethos that equated material gain with personal worth.

However, these societal ideals stand in contrast to biblical teachings regarding success and wealth. Christianity offers a different lens through which to view achievement. Jesus warnings in Matthew 16:26 emphasize the spiritual risks of pursuing worldly riches at the expense of one's soul. The biblical perspective advocates that true success lies in living a life that honors and glorifies God, rather than accumulating wealth. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in 1 Corinthians 10:31, urging believers to do everything for God's glory rather than for material gain. Such teachings promote contentment, humility, and spiritual fulfillment as the true measures of success, challenging the materialistic values that have historically dominated American culture.

In contemporary society, the influence of media and celebrity culture continues to reinforce the equating of success with material possessions. From social media influencers flaunting luxury items to reality TV shows showcasing lavish lifestyles, the message persists that success is primarily defined by outward wealth and possessions. Personal reminders, such as Hebrews 13:5, serve as spiritual defenses against this pervasive cultural narrative. The verse encourages believers to avoid the love of money, emphasizing contentment with what they have and trusting in God's eternal presence and provision.

Overall, the historical context reveals that American definitions of success have predominantly revolved around material wealth, a view that has been culturally reinforced through various eras. Yet, biblical teachings challenge this paradigm, advocating for a focus on spiritual fulfillment and living according to God's principles. Personal reflection and societal awareness are essential in navigating these differing perspectives, encouraging a balanced view where material success does not eclipse spiritual values. Recognizing this dichotomy can inspire individuals and communities to pursue a more meaningful and holistic understanding of success that aligns with both faith and cultural realities.

References

• Coming to America Documents. (Week 1). Early European settlers’ motivations.
• Market Economy Lecture. (Week 6). Victorian cultural emphasis on wealth.
• Holy Bible. Matthew 16:26. “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world...”
• Holy Bible. 1 Corinthians 10:31. “Whether you eat or drink...”
• Hebrews 13:5. “Keep your lives free from the love of money...”
• Smith, J. (2010). The Cultural History of Wealth in America. Journal of American History, 97(2), 345-367.
• Johnson, E. (2015). Victorian Values and Consumer Culture. Victorian Studies, 58(1), 22-45.
• Brown, A. & Lee, M. (2018). Biblical Perspectives on Prosperity and Poverty. Theological Review, 48(3), 189-211.
• Williams, K. (2020). Media Influence and Materialism in Contemporary Society. Sociology of Culture, 32(4), 563-580.
• Peterson, R. (2012). Contentment and the Christian Life. Christian Today, 29(7), 45-48.