Maps and the American Identity

Americans, in general, have a strong sense of identity. Now this means a lot of different things to a lot of different people, but I think the vast majority of people in this country feel a strong connection to the overall shape to the left that embodies the United States as well us the people, both physically and symbolically. I think that even the most primitive maps made by the most primitive people still gave a sense of place and connection to the land. To Native born Americans we identify with an image of the United States because it is our home. It is what we know. On the other hand, that same shape might resonate in others a feeling of hope, comfort, help, or even hatred. Historically, it was hope and opportunity that was held in maps of America. I think this still is what Americans hold on to. Today though the American identity in relation to the map may be broken into much smaller pieces of states and even regions. For me, my identity as an American lie in a California and Nevada map. More specifically, A map of the Tahoe area. This is where I am from, and therefore, in a way, that is who I am. On a map of Tahoe, I know where everything is. From major roads and rivers, to the undisclosed "secret spots", I know where they are. Not only though is there a sense of place, but each spot holds a memory of feeling that contributes to me and my personal identity. The same would be true for most I believe.