English I: Language, Society and Culture - Past Paper PDF

English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 INTRODUCTION WOOCLAP - TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE US History of Barack Obama is black of not ? Why Black American. African American. → How many political parties are there in the US ? There are over 420 registered political parties in the US. The Republican Party, the Democratic Party, the Libertarian Party, the Green Party, the Constitution Party, the Alliance Party, etc. ⚠ Democratic Party → Democrates ⚠ Republican Party → Republicain → Who was Joe Biden’s running-mate in the 2020 election ? Kamala Harris – who became JB’s vice-president and took over as the o"cial candidate for the Democratic Party on July 21st, 2024 - after JB withdrew his bid for reelection. ⚠ Running-mate = le colistier → DEF : Candidat qui fait partie de la même liste électorale qu'un autre. Au US c’est comme ça, tous les candidats se représente avec un colistier qui est un peu leur compagnon et il n’est pas vice- président, mais il va le devenir si le représentant est élu. Ex: Biden, c’était Kamala Harris. → When will the next presidential elections be held ? On the first Tuesday on the first Monday on November = Tuesday November 5th, 2024 To make sure that is the first Monday of the month cause there’s holiday. → How often are presidential elections held ? Every 4 years – max 2 mandates For Trump is his last mandate. → Who is FLOTUS ? The abbreviation stands for “!e First Lady Of The United States” = Dr. Jill T.J. Biden, until Biden withdrew. The President Of The United States = POTUS (At this time is Joe R. Biden.) Supreme Court Of The US = SCOTUS Question: if Kamala Harris is elected president in Nov. what will her husband be called ? Douglas Emho# would be called the “First Gentleman” FGOTUS. When she was Vice President he was called the “Second Gentleman” SGOTUS. 1 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 → When are the next legislative elections held ? Tuesday November 5th 2024. → How many stars are there on the American flag ? Why ? The Continental Congress designed the first flag in 1777. They decided that the flag would have 13 red and white stripes (Stripes, petit morceau de quelque chose. ) and 13 white stars for the 13 original colonies. Today, there are 50 stars for the 50 states. Flag also called : → The stars and Stripes → The Old Glory Pattern also influenced the title of the country’s National Anthem = the Star-Spangled Banner → What is the capital of the US? Washington DC - District of Columbia (Columbia en 'hommage’ au con de Christophe Colomb.) = the seat of the US federal government. New York City was the first capital when the Constitution was ratified (Def, Ratifié). Later the capital was moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and it was only in 1791 as a result of the signing of the Residence Act that government decided to create an independent district. The territory, which was formally part of Maryland and Virginia, was o"cially recognized as the federal district in 1801. Population 689,000 (2020 census). Info : Le gouvernement américain a décidé d’acheter des terres dans 2 States di#érent et ont dessiné sur la carte la capital Washington D.C. L’on rendu réel créant la maison blanche. → Which State is the largest geographically? Alaska, Texas, California. → What is the total US population today ? The population is 337 million and more. And her in Belgium 12 million. → Which US state is the most populated ? California, with 39 million people. → Which state ranks first in per capita income ? = Where is the money? Why? Connecticut (last Mississippi). 2 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 → What is the unemployment rate in the US ? The average unemployment rate in Belgium was 5.4% this summer (12.3% Bxl, 6.8% Wal, 3.4% Fl). US = 4.2% unemployment rate as of August 2024 (0.4% higher than last year). In March 2020, the US unemployment rate rose to 15%. The average poverty rate in the US is around 10-12% (17% for Hispanics- 19.5% for Blacks). The average poverty rate in Belgium is 13.2%. a Depends on what ‘under the poverty level’ means. → What is the o"cial language in the US ? There is none – 1st Amendment to the US Constitution = freedom of speech. But some states have local laws → What is the largest minority group in the US today ? Hispanic Americans represent 18% of total US population → Which religious denomination has the largest following in the US ? Protestant → Is abortion legal in the US ? Yes, but not in all states. In June 2022, Dobbs (State Health O"cer for Mississippi Department of Health) v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (Abortion clinic) = landmark US SC decision overturning Roe v. Wade (1973) which holds that the US Constitution does not confer a right to abortion, giving individual states back the full power to regulate aspects of abortion not covered by federal law. → Do same-sex couples have the right to get married in the US ? On June 26, 2015, the United States Supreme Court ruled in a landmark decision (Obergefell v. Hodges) that the 14th Amendment requires all states to license marriages between same- sex couples and to recognize all marriages that were lawfully performed out of state. → Who is eating cats and dogs and where in the US ? According to Donald Trump during ABC's presidential debate last month: "In Springfield (Ohio), they are eating the dogs. !e people that came in, they are eating the cats. !ey’re eating – they are eating the pets of the people that live there." - He was referring to illegal immigrants from Haiti /’hei ti:/. à discussion about conspiracy theories on the web and populism. 3 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 CHAPTER 1 : US PHYSICAL AND HUMAN GEOPGRAPHY GLOBAL FEATURES OF THE UNITED STATES O"cial 5 regions : - The Northeast - The South - The Midwest - The West - The Pacific The biggest State Geographically : 1. Alaska - 663,000 sq. miles 2. Texas - 268,000 sq. miles 3. California 163,000 sq. miles Titre comparatif, la Belgique c’est 12,000 sq.miles ( 30,600km) THE US FLAG → Features (caractéristique): The flat consist of 13 horizontal stripes (7 red and 6 white) and a bleu square (called the "canton" or "union") in the top left corner featuring 50 white stars (50 States). Colors : Red : valor and bravery White: purity and innocence Blue : vigilance, perseverance and justice Stars : 50 for each State in US Stripes : represent 13 original colonies that déclare Independence from Britain. → Symbolism (la symbolique) : - Refered to ad a symbol of Freedom, Democracy and Unity. - It embolies (incarne) the struggles, sacrifices and achievements of the United States durant leur histoire. 4 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 The Continental Congress designed the first flag in 1777. → Names : - The Stars and Stripes / Old Glory The 'Belts’ : Les ceintures régionales des États-Unis, ou "belts" en anglais, sont des zones géographiques qui partagent des caractéristiques communes, qu'elles soient climatiques, agricoles, économiques ou culturelles1. Ces régions ont été définies au fil du temps pour décrire des parties spécifiques du pays présentant des traits distinctifs. The Bible Belt (Ceinture de la Bible) : It Is a region of the United States where strict Protestant Christianity is highly prevalent, with deep-rooted religious and cultural conservatism that is strongly embedded in its history and people. Location : Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, Arkansas, Louisiana, Kentucky, Gerogia, Texas, North Carolina. → We can ses that during the U.S. elections, the states in the 'Bible Belt' tend to vote for the conservative party. It is also reflected in certain laws (abortion, death penalty). The Rust Belt (Ceinture de Rouille) : It is a region historically known for its industry (steel, automotive, etc.). Its decline is due to massive deindustrialization (competition, coal/ oil, etc.), and the name "Rust" = rouille, refere to abandoned factories. Location : Northeast and Midwest ; Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and part of New York. The Black Belt (Ceinture Noir) : It is an agricultural region with fertile, dark soil, particularly suited for cotton cultivation. It is also associated with a significant African American population and a legacy of slavery. Enslaved Africans worked on its cotton plantations. Location : Southeast; Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Louisiana et South Carolina. The Corn Belt (Ceinture de Maïs) : A major agricultural region in the US, focused on the intensive production of corn and soybeans, used for human and animal consumption as well as ethanol production. Location : Midwest ; Iowa (heart of the Corn Belt), Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Minnesota (part), Missouri (part) and Kansas (part). 5 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 The Frost Belt (ceinture gelée) : this is a region of the northern USA known for its very cold winter climate, heavy snowfall and fréquent frost. These areas have historically trived due industrial development but they have lost people to the Sun Belt. Location : northeastern US, part of the Midwest (Upper Midwest) and the Great Lakes region, including ; - Lake Ontario : Northern New York State - Lake Erie : From Cleveland (Ohio) to New York - Lake Michigan : Western of Michigan - Lake Superior : Northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan The Snow Belt (Ceinture de Neige) : A region of North America where swnofall is abusant, often dure to the "Lake e#ects’ of the Great Lakes. Location : Michigan (ouest et nord) - Lake Ontario : Northern New York State - Lake Erie : From Cleveland (Ohio) to New York - Lake Michigan : Western of Michigan - Lake Superior : Northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan → Le "lake-e#ect snow" se produit lorsque l'air froid se déplace sur les eaux plus chaudes des lacs, absorbe l'humidité et la redépose sous forme de neige en arrivant sur la terre. The Sun Belt (Ceinture du Soleil) : Is a region stretching from the Southeast to the Southwest, characteriized by warm climates, rapid, dynamix economiic growth and a significant increase in population. Location : Florida, Texas, Arizona, California, Nevada, North Carolina, Georgia. The Unchurched Belt (Ceinture Non-Religieuse) : refers to a region where there is a low rates of religious participation and and chuch attendance. High percentage of people who are reliigiously una"liated, atheist or agnostic. Location : Northeasr and Pacific Northwest; Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Oregon, Washington. 6 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Demographic features of the US: 1. The population size - New York City , NY, 8,3 million - L.A. California 3,9 million - Chicago, Illinois 2,6 million - Brussels, 1,2 million - Washington DC, 630,000 (has been decreasing). In the US they are in septembre 2024 = 337 million people " PLUS : the first capital of the United States was Phladelphia because it was the mots populated. 2. The most populated areas California with 39 million people. Cause, California has a lot of things to give ; - Diverse jobs market (Cos more people to provide a service) - Economics opportunities - High level of education (good universities). - Plesant climat - Cultural Diversity " PLUS : Census → recensement de la population. The Northeast, on the East Cost is more populated. 3. The richest areas " Where’s the money ?" District of Columbia (not a state) - $58,000/year (= $4,800/month) Richest state: Connecticut - $45,000/year (= $3,750/month) Poorest state : Mississippi - $25,000/year (= $2,100/month) To compare: Belgium - $46,000/year (= 3,830/month) Les langues les plus parlées au US : 4. Language in the US There’s NO o"cial language at the federal level → 1st Amendment of the Bill of Rights - Freedom of Speech English is the de facto o"cial language = spoken by the majority English is only spoken by about 80% population 7 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Pledge Allegiance : I pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all. → La phrase Pledge of Allegiance fait référence au serment d'allégeance aux États-Unis, une courte déclaration de fidélité envers le drapeau et la nation américaine. Ce serment est souvent récité par les Américains lors de cérémonies o"cielles, dans les écoles, et pendant certaines réunions publiques. C'est un acte symbolique qui vise à renforcer le patriotisme et à rappeler les valeurs fondamentales des États-Unis. 5. Minorities facts and figures For Hispanic Americans → People of Hispanic or Latino Origin About 18% ⬆. % by state : 47% in New Mexico - 1.3% in West Virginia % by city: 95% Hialeah, FL For African Americans, About 12% ⬇. % by state: 37% in Mississippi – 0.6% in Montana % by city: 82% in Detroit, MI → Un peu comme nous, belgo-italien/marocain/algérien/espagnol/polonais etc.. ⚠ Di#erence in terminology ⚠ African Americans / Black Americans African American : refer to the descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the United States. Black American : refer to the racial identity rather than an ethnic, the skin color regardless of their specific origin. Someone can be Black American but may not identify as African American, as exemplified by Kamala Harris (she’s Jamaican with no African roots). Asian Americans They are born American citizens because they were born on the territory of American citizens. But they are of Asian origin, so that's why we use, we call them hyphenated Americans. → hyphenated = trait d’union. → A hyphenated American is an American who has foreign origins. 8 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Hispanic Americans / Latino Americans Hispanic Latino Refer to people with ancestry from Spanish- Refers to people with origins in Latina America. speaking courtries. Focuses on language and Is more geographically rather than language. culture. For example, a Brazillian girl can identify herself as Latino American but not Hispanic American. When we said "Mexican", American people will understand that he has Mexican nationality. Native-Americans There are the real Americans Indgenous Peoples (Indien d’Amérique ou Amérindien). The first peoples of US. " PLUS : WASP is an acronyme for "White Anglo-Saxon Protestant" = Personne blanches (élites) d’origine anglo-saxonne (origine UK) et de religion protestantes. Ce sont les descendants des premiers colons britannique et nord-européens aux US. → Ce n’est pas la même traduction qu’en français. Quand on dit 'Anglo-Saxon', ce sont les blancs qui sont d’origine anglo-saxon du Royaume-Unis. PAS qui parle anglais ça ont dit "English speaking". En anglais américain, on utilise ses bcq ses expressions pour parler des di#érents groupes ethniques qui sont présent dans la société américaine. ⚠ Quand il y a une trait d’union le nom devient un adjectif. Ex : African-American culture. Alors que "He’s African American" soulève son origine dans la société (nom propre). Mais c’est pas toujours respecter dans les écrits ces formulations. 6. The Melting Pot / Salad Bowl -A 'Majority Minority’ Those expressions are metaphor to express facts. The Melting Pot : People from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds blend together to form a unified national identity. In this process, they assimilate into the broader society, often adapting or partially abandoning aspects of their original cultures to become integrated members of their new community. Salad Bowl : This metaphor illustrates how, similar to the ingredients in a salad, di#erent cultures can coexist harmoniously within the same society, each maintaining its unique identity while contributing to the overall richness of the community. Majority Minority : A "majority minority" is a situation where one or more ethnic, racial, or religious groups make up the majority of the population in a specific geographical area, even though they are 9 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 considered a minority at the national level. This concept is often used in the U.S., where states like Hawaii, California, and New Mexico exhibit this demographic feature. Projections suggest that the U.S. could become a "majority-minority" country by 2044, when non-Hispanic whites are expected to account for less than 50% of the total population. This reflects the shifting demographics and increasing diversity in society. 7. Religious denominations Christian about 65%, Protestant about 42% , Roman Catholic about 21%, And none about 29% : atheist. The most religious states are referd to as the 'Bible Belt' while with lower religous participation are referred to as the to 'Unchurched Belt'. Additioinally, states like Mississippi and Tennessee are known tao be considered as the 'Bible Belt’ (heart of the Catholicism). Washington has the lowest religous following in the Unted States. To compare in Belgium = 30% concéder themselves as Christians. → Is abortion legal in the US ? It’s dépends on the State not at the American federal level. BEFORE : American Women have bad the right to have abordions ever since the U.S Supreme Court of the US (this is the highest branches of federal gouvernment). But the U.S. Supreme Court decided in a case called Roe v. Wade, Roe versus Wade, right, that all American women at the national level, at the federal level, had the right to have abortions all the way up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. And this was the case up until 2022. All American women in all 50 states have the right to have an abortion. AFTER : In June 2022, Dobbs (State Health O"cer for Mississippi Department of Health) v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (Abortion clinic) = landmark US SC decision overturning Roe v. Wade (1973) which holds that the US Constitution does not confer a right to abortion, giving individual states back the full power to regulate aspects of abortion not covered by federal law. → Donald Trump replace several judges on the U.S. Supreme Court. He picked Supreme Court justices who agreed with his own personal opinion (conservative) on a number of di#erent issues. So this actually switched the balance between the more liberal justices on the U.S. Supreme Court and the more conservative justices. To compare in Belgium : Is legal but there’s a limit in the number of weeks. 10 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 CHAPTER 2 : THE ORIGINS OF US INSTITUTIONS From Colonialisme to Modern Institutions NEW WORLD America "Birth Certificate" Several nations had already ‘explored’ North America as early as : - China 459 AD - Ireland 551 AD - Iceland (Viking) = set up a colony and called them “Vinland” 1000 AD - Wales 1170, etc. Christopher Columbus (Italian explorer sponsored by the Spanish Crown) - October 12, 1492 → sets foot in “the Indies” (Los Indios). C’est comme ça qu’il appelait les amérindiens. Amerigo Vespucci was the person responsible for the naming of the American continents in 1490. Unlike Christopher Columbus, who believed he had reached Christopher Columbus Asia, Vespucci realized and confirmed that the land he was exploring was a separate continent - what he called the "New World" (Mundus Novus). This is the first America’s world map, made by German cartographe, Martin Wolsey-Muller. At that time, Europeans wanted to leave Europe for many reasons : prostitutioin, religious beliefs, politcal beliefs, poverty, overpopulated. If you disagreed with them you would be hanged, decapitated. Population was dense : 80 millions in Europe VS 30 million in the U.S. Christopher Columbus and all the orther historians wrote a lot of interesting stories (women in Louisiana Martin Waldseemüller’s map “Universalis Cosmographia” (1507) etc.) about the lands they bad discovered. There was some kind of pull factor. Pull Factor (expression) : things on the other side of the ocean pulling these immigrants into the United State. (e.g. the space, the food, the (political freedom and freedom). Push Factor (expression) : are the things that pushed Europeans to leave. e.g famine, disease, persecution. (social issues, natural disasters, conflict, economic hardship). Corruption - Power - Money - The Church Hunger - Famines were common 11 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Military & Naval technologies - new weapons - guinde ships Revolutions - downward pressure on the poor = discontent Invention of printing - Printing Press – Gutenberg 15th century → All these are motivation to move abroad. " PLUS : pour le contexte, en France s’était la période des épidémies, maladies comme; la syphilis, la variole, la peste noire (black blague).., parce qu’il n’y avait pas d’hygiène et donc vivaient dans la peur constante. Pas d’égout, balançaient leurs excrément par la fenêtre etc etc etc.. THE US COLONIIAL PERIOD I. Aspects of Colonial America : the first permanent British settlements characteristics and impact First permanent British colonies The Virginia Company : founded the small village name Jamestown (1607) They came with the desire for economic freedom (want to and precious metal, gold, silver..) Introduced slavery 1619 Helped by and traded with natives (Pocahontas) " PLUS : Jamestown, là ou la moitié d’entre eux est morte durant le premier hiver, où ils se sont même mangés entre eux. Pourquoi ? Parce qu’ils étaient trop occupés à chercher de l’or au lieu de s’installer correctement (habitation etc.) et l’hiver est arrivé. Poncahontas a été inspiré de cette histoire. Second permanent British colonies The Plymouth (pélerins) Plantation (1620) Religious freedom Celebrate the First Thanksgiving (l’anniversaire des 1 an dans la colonie) " PLUS : cette fête fait débat, car fêter la colonisation des amérindien.. Mais pour les Américains, tout est une excuse pour se retrouver en famille, comme à Noël. Third permanent British colonies (the large one) The Massachusetts Bay Colony - "The Puritans" (1630-1642) Felt the Church of England was insu"ciently reformed - religious freedom Came in much larger numbers - 20,000 sailed to the New York New England villages → Town Fathers (educated male Church members) There di#erent from the first settlement, because they were families, they sold everything with the intention to stay and built a new life in this new world. 12 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 The Puritans are linked to the infamous Salem witch trials of Massachusetts. Both women and men were accused of witchcraft, and most of those found guilty were hanged, drowned or burnded a live. For puritans, you must be like them if you are not, you will be an ennemi. These three first permanent colonies had a tremendous impact on American values : Idea that all people should be free to look for better in the world = rights of the people (typically American Idea) Rejection of all forms of control by a crown or government attached to this crown (rather govern myself = They could trust no one but their families.) Importance of having a strongly knit community / family to count on (role of the father) Importance of getting an education = religion + freedom to think (opened the first public schools + universities : Harvard 1636) " PLUS : It is the puritans who opened up the first public schools in the New World. And opened up the first universities. Harvard, for example, was founded in 1636 by the puritans because they considered education was central. "!e more you know, the more you can protect your rights against government." The Puritans upheld Calvinist doctrines of original sin, predestination and salvation through grace : Importance of being an active member of society = working hard (self-reliance) → toujours d’actualité au U.S exemple : être chômeur mal vu. To be self-reliant s to be independent. Importance of charity (salvation through grace) – support your community → c’est dans les valeurs des U.S d’être volontaire dans les assos sinon vu comme un égoïste. These views had several disadvantages : Growing secularism → Salem witchcraft trials 1692 II. Events leading to the American Revolution and War of Independance George III limits expansion → Appalachian Frontier (to take control from colonies) The Stamp Act (1765) – a tax on paper and learning (il décide tout ça depuis l’Angleterre) → Adopter la loi sur le timbre qui est une taxe sur le papier et sur l’apprentissage. Colère des puritains. He continues to pass legislation with his Parliament and there’s growing anger. Samuel Adams (Boston Gazette): “No Taxation without Representation!”. → Taxation is associated to government control and the colonies didn’t like it. George continue to pass another Act until he passed the Tea Act and the British who lived in George Washington thoses colonies stop to drink it (American). 13 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 The Tea Act → The Boston Tea Party (1773) → Where ships loaded with tea come into the Boston Harbor and young Americans dressed up as Native Americans if any, and throw every c’est tof tea into the Boston Harbor. Cet évènement a été un tournant dans l’histoire de l’Amérique. C’était une rébellion qui a fat débuter la révolution o"ciel. The First Continental Congress, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (1774) The representatives of the Americans are in Congress and have begun to form soldiers called 'Minutemen' because they must respond in one minute Formation of “militias”: the Minutemen = first American soldiers. Colonists first gather arms against British Soldiers (Red Coats) in Lexington and Concord, Mass. → War breaks out The young Americans had two major advantages over the redcoats (British soldiers): knowledge of the landscape and being on their home turf. George Washington participate (first president) as a commander during the Revolutionary War and he’s remembered as a good military and he’s believed to have contributed to the Young American nation winning against the Redcoats during the Revolution War. ⬇ ⬆ E#ective military commanding under Washington = key to success July 4th, 1776: Je#erson and the Continental Congress adopt the Declaration of Independence (recognized by Britain in 1783) Americans consider July 4, 1776, as the birth of their nation, when the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence. However, this was not the end of the war, nor the date when the Declaration was signed. III. The Declaration of Indenpendence 1776 → Theses fouding documents are called the "Founding Fathers " or "Framers". The American National Archives (Washington DC) point to three essential Founding Documents, known collectively as the Charters of Freedom. These documents “are considered instrumental to the founding and philosophy of the United States”: The First document is : Declaration of Independence Signed July 4th, 1776 → Pour la photo, ce sont les plus actifs dans la rédaction de ces documents. Au milieu, George Washington, chef militaire. Il y a aussi Thomas Je#erson Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, John Pancake, Patrick Henry and Samuel Adams (Boston Gazette) Thomas Je#erson is the main author (traveled to Europe) → He traveled a lot and brought back all these philosophies tant were just bloomingin Europe. Ask to create a federal State. Where government is created by the people, for the people.. 14 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Strongly influences by British philosopher John Lecke / enlightenment (siècle des lumières). → That who the first document was needed to establish the reasons why they considered they should have the right to be free. So I said he was influenced by the British philosopher John Locke,"the Enlightenment". And it’s considered as the cornersttone (Pierre angulaire) of America democracy. List of “grievances” condemning King George III The Declaration of Independence lists the grievances of the American colonies against King George III, providing reasons for their decision to separate from British rule. Cornerstone of American democracy Thomas Je#erson → So I said he was influenced by the British philosopher John Locke,"the Enlightenment". And it’s considered as the cornersttone (Pierre angulaire) of America democracy. Promised the “equality of all men” → Fouding father said equality of all men, women were not include cause they were not considered as not being part of political life. The second document is : The US Constitution (comment le gouvernement fonctionne) Drafted 1787 – accepted in 1788 The thrid document is : The Bill of Rights Added to US Constitution in 1791 SIGNATURE : John Hancock was one of the fouding father but he didn’t play a important role. It’s simple, le gars had an big ego, he decided to sign in the middle. Since then, in American English, they use a reference to this guy for signature "your John Hancock please." THE ORIGINS OF US INSTITUTIOINS I. The U.S Constitution (Drafted in) 1787- (Accepted in) 1788 "The Living Constitution" = a "Bundle (Un tas de..) of Comprimises" → Congress = rassemblement, can’t called this Assembly parliament cause is to BRITISH. That there would be a Congress where we could have representatives from all the colonies to vote legislation. They decided that each state would have the right to make their own money, kept their control over their a#airs under the first Constitution, but it didn"t last long and throw it all out and started from the beginning. Provides the framework of government - who does what ? "Balance of Powers" - Checks and Balances President Elections - the Electoral College The Great Compromise - Bicaméral legislature: Senate + House 15 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Taxation - Very sensitive issue → One important debate during the drafting of the Constitution concerned the counting of slaves for representation in the House of Representatives. The southern states wanted to count slaves to increase their number of representatives, while the northern states opposed it. The compromise was that five slaves would be counted as three people for representation and taxation. Three-Fifth compromise (5 slaves = 3 whites) → The three-fifths compromise was that for representation and taxation, five slaves would count as three whites everywhere. At the time, a slave does not represent an entire person. Slavery - no interfering for 20 years → The founding fathers decided not to address slavery for 20 years after the adoption of the Constitution, in order to maintain peace. In 1808, Congress banned the slave trade but not slavery itself. They promise that they would not intervene with the Southern colonies business to keep the peace. The Constitution, explanation : The Constitution is the US government’s "user manual" explaining how the country works.It establishes a system of "checks and balances" (checks and balances) between the three branches of government to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful. It defines the process for electing the president, including the establishment of the electoral college. The Constitution establishes a bicameral legislative system with the Senate and the House of Representatives : The House of Representatives represents the people, with a number of representatives proportional to the population of each state. The Senate represents the states, with two senators per state. This model of government has influenced many other countries around the world. The Constitution is a single document that contains all these fundamental rules of the US government. Structure of the United States Congress : The Senat Représentation égale : The Senate provides equal representation for all states, regardless of population or size. Each state has two senators, resulting in a total of 100 senators (50 states × 2 senators per state). Compromis constitutionnel : This structure was a compromise during the drafting of the Constitution, as the Founders couldn't decide between representation based on population or equal representation for all states. The solution was to create a bicameral legislature : Chambre des représentants : The House of Representatives, where representation is based on state population. Sénat : The Senate, where each state has equal representation with two senators. 16 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Chambre des représentants : The House of Representatives has 435 members, with the number of representatives per state proportional to its population. Équilibre des intérêts : This system balances the interests of both large and small states, ensuring that smaller states still have a significant voice in the federal government. The passage contains one error: it incorrectly states there are 15 states, when in fact there are 50 states in the United States. This structure, known as the "Great Compromise" or "Connecticut Compromise," was crucial in resolving one of the most contentious issues during the Constitutional Convention of 1787. II. The three branches of government; the principle of Checks and Balances Tableau des trois branches : Le Congrès (congress) est l'équivalent du Parlement britannique. → They say "Biden administration" meaning Biden, his Vice President and mis 15 secretaries. ⚠ → On ne peut pas dire ⚠ - Congress voted lesgislation - The Biden administration has decided to introduce legislation Because the have to be validated by the congress,or the U.S. Supreme Court has made a decision but we can't say that government has decided. None of the three branches can make any decisions without the consent or the checks of one of the other two branches. Resume : Structure of Congress: The Constitution establishes a bicameral Congress, consisting of a House of Representatives (435 members) and a Senate (100 senators, two per state). Congress is equivalent to the British Parliament. Executive Power: The Constitution creates an executive branch led by a president and a vice president. Originally, the vice president was the candidate who received the second-highest number of votes, which has since changed. 17 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Separation of Powers: The Constitution establishes a strict separation between the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial), each with its own powers and responsibilities. No branch can make decisions without the consent or control of the others. III.Elected o"cials vs. Appointed o"cials → To be a representative in the House, one must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen for at least seven years, and reside in the state represented. Senators must be older. Position Minimum âge Residency Citizenship Representative 25 state in which elected 7 years Senator 30 state in which elected 9 years President 35 14 years in the US natural-born Supreme Court Justice None None None Cabinet members None None None Two types of o"cials : Elected o"cials : President, Congress members, senator, judges, scheri#s,… Appointed o"cials : Cabinet members, Justices to the US SC, CIA director, etc. Chambre des Représentants Sénat 435 représentants 100 sénateurs (2 par État) Élection tous les 2 ans Élection pour 6 ans Nombre de représentants proportionnel à la Renouvellement par tiers tous les 2 ans population de l'État Représentation égale pour chaque État, Exemples : indépendamment de sa population - Californie : 54 représentants - Vermont : 1 représentant - Florida : 29 représentants IV.Congress: Senator and representatives/Congress (wo)men → The Founding Fathers decided the legislative branch would be a bicameral system = 2 branches → Congressmen and women are elected during midterm elections (also called legislative elections) every 2 years 18 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 The Senate The House of Representatives 100 senators (represent states) 435 representatives (represent people) 2 per state = equal representation Representation is proportional to the state’s population 6-year terms = 1/3 of senate relelected every 2 2-year terms years 2022 midterm election results: 2022 midterm election results: R = 49 R = 222 D = 51 D = 213 " PLUS : The youngest presidents in the United States was Kennedy 40 years and Obama. V. The President of the United States (POTUS-FLOTUS) Those acronyms refer to : POTUS: This acronym stands for "President Of The United States." It is commonly used in media and political discourse to refer to the sitting president. FLOTUS: This stands for "First Lady Of The United States." It refers to the wife of the president, who often takes on a ceremonial role and engages in various social and charitable activities. VI.Cabinet members, e.g Vice President, secretaries… The President + Vice President + Cabinet = The Administration 15 Departments – 1 Secretary per Department = 15 Secretaries = Cabinet Department of Agriculture Department of Health and Department of Labor Human Services Department of Commerce Department of Homeland Department of State Security Department of Defense Department of Housing and Department of tansportation Urban Development Department of Education Department of the Interior Department of the Treasury Department of Energy Department of Justice Department of Veterans A#airs Cabinet and Administration: The president can surround himself with advisors called secretaries, who lead 15 departments (such as foreign a#airs or education). Together, they form the administration. 19 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 VII.The government VS the administration Government Administration The U.S. government consists of three The administration specifically refers to the branches: executive branch: 1. Legislative Branch (Congress) President House of Representatives (435 members) Vice President Senate (100 members, 2 per state) Cabinet (15 department secretaries) Creates and votes on laws Resume : The administration is part of the larger government structure 2. Executive Branch Cabinet members are appointed by the Led by the President and Vice President President and approved by the Senate Executes and enforces laws The administration changes with each new 3. Judicial Branch presidency, while the overall government structure remains constant Interprets laws Includes the Supreme Court and lower courts The administration is responsible for implementing policies and managing federal agencies, while the government as a whole encompasses all three branches and their respective roles in governing the country 20 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 VIII. The US Supreme Court - Justices ⚠ The US Supreme Court 2024 = 9 Justices: (1 Chief Justice and 8 Associate Justices) The Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr. is the Chief Justice of the United States ⚠ Name Gender Title Born Appointed Appointed Political Religious in in by Philosophy a"liation Ketanji B. F Associate 1970 2022 Joe R. Liberal/ Protestant JACKSON Justice Biden centrist Amy C. F Associate 1972 2020 Donald J. Conservativ Catholic BARRETT Justice Trump e Brett M. M Associate 1965 2018 Donald J. (Moderate) Catholic KAVANAU Justice Trump conservative GH Neil M. M Associate 1967 2017 Donald J. (Moderate) Catholic/ GORSUCH Justice Trump conservative Episcopalian Elena F Associate 1960 2010 Barack Liberal/ Jewish KAGAN Justice Obama centrist Sonia F Associate 1954 2009 Barack Centrist Catholic SOTOMAY Justice Obama OR Samuel A. M Associate 1950 2005 George W. Moderate Catholic ALITO Justice Bush conservative John G. M Chief 1955 2005 George W. Moderate Catholic ROBERTS Justice Bush conservative Jr. Clarence M Associate 1991 1991 George (Moderate) Catholic THOMAS Justice H.W. Bush conservative Judicial Branch : The US Supreme Court 2024 21 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 IX. The Bill of Rights 1791 The framework of US government was created with the 1788 Constitution (the first version of it) BUT → Founding Fathers were still afraid they may have created too strong a federal government = Bill of Rights added in 1791 Bill of Rights = list of amendments to the US Constitution (American people’s individual rights and liberties) → limits the power of the federal government Balance between: - strong central government - individual freedoms - state powers Framers enabled document to grow with nation = language flexible enough to be interpreted in di#erent ways (advantage or disadvantage?) N° Amendments To The Constituion Date 1st Freedoms of religion, speech, assembly. The government may not establish a 1791 national religion (separation of church and state) 2nd The right to bear arms 7th The Right to a trial by jury 13th Prohibition of slavery 1865 15th No denial of vote because of race, color, or previous condition of servitude 1870 26th Sets the minimum age for voting in all elections at 18 1971 " PLUS : In 1960s, Ernesto Miranda, kidnapped, killed, and raped a handicapped girl. When he's arrested by the police, he confesses to the crime to the police on the day of his arrest. The lawyer argues in the courtroom that his confession he made to the police a couple weeks earlier, could not be held as evidence in court because his client had never been told what his rights were. Because the client didn't know that he had the right to remain silent. That if he had been told he had the right to remain silent, he would not have confessed. And if he hadn't confessed, they wouldn't have any evidence against him because that's all they had. From that point on, it was decided that all police must read or summary Amendments Number 5 and 6 to the person. (Mais le gars été jugé coupable l’a#aire). 22 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 CHAPTER 3 :UNDERSTANDING US POLITICAL Idéologies and modern poltiics I. Political ideaologies in the US : Defining ideology → What is an ideology ? “An ideology is a cohesive set of beliefs and values about the goals of politics and the role of government, shaping both individual and collective political behavior.” ( Jost, J. - 2021). → Is the set of beliefs that determine how you think the government schould be done. “Ideology organizes and justifies political attitudes and behaviors, often aligning them with emotional and motivational goals.” ( Jost, J. A Theory of System Justification, 2021). → They make decisions FOR us. “Ideologies are frameworks of thought that provide maps of political understanding, directing political action.” (M. Freeden, 2013). → Explique le rôle fondamental de l’idéologie dans la sphère politique. Elles son essentielles pour comprendre la politique et orienter l’action dans la société (comme un guide) Ex. Taxer plus ou pas les citoyens ? L’immigration etc. A person can have more than one ideology - a religious ideology, a social/moral ideology, a fiscal ideology, etc → What are the key elements of an ideology ? Beliefs and Values: Core values such as liberty, equality, and justice shape the foundation of an ideology. Worldview: Ideology provides a lens through which political events and social conditions are interpreted. Normative Ideals: Ideologies propose ideals on how society ought to be structured. Political Action: Directs and defines policy preferences and political participation, influencing real-world outcomes. 23 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Basic terminology En Belgique : Quelle est la di#érence principale dans les opinions politiques entre la droite et la gauche dans leur point de vue sur le rôle que joue le gouvernement dans leurs vies ? - La gauche : taxe plus, utilise le fond public pour la sécurité de tous. - La droite : moins d’intervention de l’état, plus di"cile pour la sécurité sociale. Forcer les gens à travailler (comme MR). The following terms are often used to refer to the di#erent ideological stances in the US: ⚠ Do not translate French to English ⚠ - Left(-wing) blue = “liberal” (progressiste) c’est pas vraiment notre gauche, c’est plutôt un centre gauche droit pour nous. - Right(-wing) red = “conservative” (conservateur) c’est très à droite de nous. A person taking the intermediate stance would be called a centrist or moderate Range of political positions: “fiscal liberal”, “social conservative”, etc. Approach to foreign policy: “hawks” vs. “doves” → Hawks : more aggressive, use of military force to achieve its goals. → Doves : represents peace, with pacifiste and diplomatie approach. Ce sont des opposés. " PLUS : comme Hillary Clinton, qui a été qualifiée de "hawk" pour son soutien à des interventions militaires, notamment lors de son vote en faveur de l'invasion de l'Irak en 2002. Note: European notions of “left-wing” and “right-wing” politics and political positions often do not correlate so well with the US political spectrum, so try to use “liberal” and “conservative” when possible to describe US politicians and voters. To illustrate : 24 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Hot Button issues discussed in class Map "Americans’Political Ideolology" → linked to the Bible Belt, Unchurched Belt etc. Liberal states are often on the coast (California, Oregon, Washington), while conservatives are often in the central US : - Social & Economic Factors: Wealth in liberal states; coastal areas have more contact with diversity. - Environmental Impact: Urban regions = more diversity, whereas rural areas = more closed o# to others. - Education & Open-mindedness: Education shapes political opinions. → Main political parties and actors - DEMOCRATIC PARTY : Democrats (D) -Generally liberal political philosophy Symbol: donkey (1828 ,Andrew Jackson embraced the term "jackass" used by opponents) - THE REPUBLICAN PARTY (Grand Old Party) - Republicans (R) - Generally conservative political philosophy - Symbol: elephant (1874 ,signifying strength and leadership.) - Orther parties & Indépendants : Sometimes a third-party or independent candidate enters the presidential race. → E.g. In addition to major candidates Donald Trump (Republican) and Kamala Harris (Democrat), there are notable third-party and independent candidates in the race, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cornel West. The third-party candidates purpose can influence election outcomes by drawing votes away from major party candidates, particularly in swing states where margins are narrow. Ces parties savent qu’ils ne vont pas gagner (système électoral bipartite) donc ils vont influencer les résultats des votes en siphonnant des voix des grands partis. - Voters : May either be a"liated or una"liated to a political party (“undecided” until election day = “swing voters”) → undecided, swing, purple states. ⚠ It is important to distinguish between political parties and their ideologies to avoid confusion when discussing U.S. politics. " PLUS : The symbols (donkey and elephant) frequently appear in political cartoons, campaign materials, and media discussions related to American politics. → Economic issues 25 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Liberal beliefs today Conservative beliefs today Economic Issues 1) Capitalism should not be abolished—it works better 1) Too much business regulation is unnecessary, than socialism—but it should be regulated by wasteful, and harmful. It costs taxpayers a fortune. government = more taxes/government. We should deregulate. = less taxes/government. 2) We need major new spending programs to deal 2) Welfare spending hurts the people it is supposed to with the causes and consequences of poverty – help because it makes them dependent on government should provide welfare. government. Businesses should be stimulated (taxed less) so that it jobs can be created in the private = Business regulation/employment. sector. = deregulation/unemployment Social & Moral Issues 1) Since a woman has the right to control her own 1) Abortion is a crime because it kills an unborn baby. body, the government should not restrict abortion or If it can be justified at all, it is only in cases where the access to contraception. woman’s life is at stake. 2) Those suspected of crime, especially the poor, have 2) Courts are too lenient and should hand out tougher been so often abused by the police in the past that sentences. We also need the death penalty as the they require protections (prevention is key). ultimate deterrent. 3) There must be a wall of separation between church 3) Americans are a religious people. There should be and state. (→ 1 st Amendment) a place in our public institutions for the non- sectarian exercise of religion 4) It is the role of government to help smooth out 4) Racial quotas or other programs giving preferential racial inequalities. treatment to minorities amount to racism in reverse. Exemple avec le quota d’emploi White/afro-American. 5) Members of the LGBTQIA+ community need legal 5) To give legal sanction to “sexually deviant” protection against discrimination behavior flouts the deepest norms of our civilization. Millitary & Foreign Policy 1) America should conduct more of its foreign policy 1) The United States should stay out of foreign through international agencies like the United entanglements unless there is something in them Nations and less of it unilaterally. that will clearly advance America’s selfinterest. = Trump is an isolationist America first. 2) Government spends too much on the military. We 2) We must demonstrate our willingness to use force can have a “lean, mean” military for less money. if necessary to advance our interests: otherwise, our diplomacy will simply be appeasement. % & Possible question examen : 10 statement, et dire qui est libéral et qui est conservateur. → Social / Moral issues - Women’s rights : - LGBTQIA+ rights - Abortion - Crime - Pornography - nudity - Education, student debt - Religion - Gun control, etc. - Race 26 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 " PLUS : Censorship in the U.S s a complex and debater topic. While the First Amendment protects freedom of speech, there are still various forms of censorship in practice. In Media Content for example, there is foul language is often censored on broadcast television and radio. However, streaming services and cable TV have more relaxed standards. Or in ratings systems, Movies, TV shows, and music often have ratings or warnings (like "E" for explicit on Spotify) to inform consumers about potentially o#ensive content. Age-Appropriate Content: There's discussion about shielding children from certain content versus educating them about real-world issues. Government Censorship: While limited by the First Amendment, some forms of government censorship have occurred, especially during wartime. The debate between liberals and conservatives often centers on the balance between protecting free speech and protecting people (especially children) from o#ensive content. Liberals tend to favor education and personal responsibility, while conservatives may advocate for more content restrictions in public spaces → Concernant l’éducation, Contrôle par l'État : Chaque État gère son propre système éducatif. Districts scolaires : Les États sont divisés en districts scolaires qui administrent les écoles locales. Conseils scolaires : Ces districts ont des conseils scolaires élus qui décident des livres et des ressources utilisés en classe. Éducation sexuelle : Le contenu de l'éducation sexuelle est déterminé au niveau du district ou de l'État. Cette structure décentralisée entraîne des variations dans l'éducation à travers le pays. → Concernant, l’éducation sexuelle, il y a deux approches opposés : Liberal States Conservative States (Bible Belt) Comprehensive sex education Abstinence-only programs Information on contraception and STI Message: "Don't have sex" prevention Very limited information provided Holistic and informative approach Main Consequence Highest rate of teenage pregnancies among industrialized countries (comme vu plus haut) Ine#ectiveness of abstinence-only programs → Military and foreign policy issues Involvement in international agencies (UN/NATO) → (ONU et OTAN) Engagement with those organizations Signing of international treaties (Paris Agreement) 27 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Climate → Examples include the withdrawal of the Paris Climate Agreement. (Trump) Military spending - intervention in conflicts, etc. (Ukraine/Gaza, etc.) → Debate on the increase in military spending and intervention in conflicts such as Ukraine and Gaza. Immigration / illegal immigration → Discussion on illegal immigration and restrictive policies. Travel bans → Controversial travel policies put in place by Trump Asylum seekers → Questions concerning the conditions of admission of asylum seekers (demandeurs d’asile) Conservatives and liberal beliefs today Liberal beliefs today (more government) Conservative beliefs today (less government) II. The US presidential election process : Main Steps in US of the presidential election → Road to the White House 1. Preliminary phase (about 1 year before the election Fall 2023): Potential candidates "test the waters" Creation of exploratory committees Assessment of popular and financial support 2. Primaries and caucuses (from January to June 24): Selection of a favorite candidate for each political party Similar to the first round of French elections 3. Party National conventions (summer 2024): Large, highly publicized party gatherings O"cial nomination of candidates Support speeches from other party candidates 28 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 → Fall campaign (Fall 2024): Some states allow early voting Candidates tour key states 6. The Electoral College: Intensive TV advertising and billboards O"cial validation of results Mobilization of volunteers for phone Meeting at the Capitol canvassing → Presidential inauguration ( January 5. Election Day (November 5, 2024): 2025): Popular vote New president takes oath before the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. → The Fall Campaign "Winning over swing states" Labor Day weekend (first weekend in September) = beginning of the fall campaign Traditional series of televised presidential and vice-presidential debates E#orts to win as many undecided voters as possible: On average = 40% Republican – 40% Democratic → 20% of undecided voters (électeurs indécis) Swing voters in battleground states (purple states) can make or break an election (e.g. Ohio, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsinetc.) " PLUS : électeurs pivots sont des personnes qui peuvent voter pour l’un ou l’autre partis et leurs choix peuvent "faire ou défaire" les élections. Ces états clés sont vraiment importantes comme on l’a vu cette année, parce qu’ils peuvent pencher la balance → Swing States (Etats pivot). Purple State : décrire un État américain où les électeurs sont divisés à peu près également entre les deux principaux partis politiques, le Parti démocrate et le Parti républicain. Candidates will focus on key, elector-rich states → campaign ads (+/- ads) " PLUS : les candidats concentrent leurs campagnes sur les États "riches en grands électeurs", qui ont un grand nombre de voix électorales et peuvent grandement influencer le résultat de l'élection. → STEP 3 - Election Day "Castng ballots in all 50 states" Registered voters in the 50 states and Washington D.C. cast ballots for a ticket (P+VP) → see 2024 ballot Voter turnout (participation électoral) in US midterm and presidential elections is usually low → voting is not an obligation. About 55% of the population votes in presidential elections In fact, voters → vote for electors → vote for presidential ticket = = Indirect voting system Electors = people chosen by the party who are pledged to vote for the candidate who gets the most popular votes in their state 29 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Each state is given a number of electors or “POINTS” = # U.S. senators + representatives for that state Example : Florida = 2 Senators + 28 représentatives = 30 electors or points → 100 Senators +435 représentatives + 3 points for DC = 538 POINTS The ticket (P+VP) that wins the most popular votes (plurality) in a state gets all of the state’s points or Electoral College votes by a system called winner-take-all (le gagne rafle tout) → le ticket (Président + Vice-président) qui obtient le plus de votes populaires dans un État remporte tous les grands électeurs de cet État. The candidate with the majority of the Electoral College votes (POINTS) nationwide = 270 out of 538 → wins the election. → Le candidat qui obtient la majorité des votes du Collège électoral (270 sur 538) remporte l’élection. If tie (égalité)s = House of Representatives votes The system makes it possible for minority presidents to be elected = Trump in 2016 When a candidate gets the majority of the points = election is over in the public’s mind BUT (processus post-élection) → Electors ceremoniously meet and vote for the president in their state capitals in December In sum, the Electoral College a method of indirect popular election of the president and their running mate (le collistier) → Les Pères fondateurs ont créé ce système (Collège électoral)pour assurer une sélection réfléchie du candidat le plus qualifié. The Founding Fathers created this system so that careful, calm deliberation → selection of the most qualified candidate Electoral College votes counted in Congress the following January (Validation finale & investiture) P+VP take their oaths (are sworn into o"ce) and assume o"ce on January 20th following the election → Les votes du Collège électoral sont comptés au Congrès en janvier, et le Président et Vice- président prêtent serment le 20 janvier suivant l'élection. " PLUS : le collège électoral est un système utilisé pour élire le président et le vice-président des États-Unis. Lors de l'élection présidentielle, chaque État a un certain nombre de grands électeurs, déterminé par sa population. Le ticket (candidat président + candidat vice- président P+VP) qui obtient le plus de votes populaires dans un État remporte tous les grands électeurs de cet État, grâce à un système appelé "winner-take-all". Pour gagner l'élection, un candidat doit obtenir la majorité des votes du Collège électoral, soit 270 sur 538. Ce système permet à un candidat d'être élu président même s'il n'a pas remporté le vote populaire national, comme cela a été le cas pour Donald Trump en 2016. Après l'élection, les grands électeurs se réunissent en décembre pour voter o"ciellement pour le 30 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 président dans leurs capitales d'État. Les résultats sont ensuite validés par le Congrès en janvier. Le président et le vice-président prêtent serment et prennent leurs fonctions le 20 janvier suivant l'élection. Cast ballots → remplir son bulletin de vote. → Whats is takes to win the election ? Secure party nomination through primaries and caucuses Gain support during the national convention Campaign e#ectively, especially in battleground states Win the Electoral College vote, not necessarily the popular vote → Whats is a minority president ? A minority president refers to a candidate who wins the presidency without receiving the majority of the popular vote nationwide. This situation occurs due to the structure of the Electoral College, where a candidate can secure enough electoral votes to win while having fewer total votes than their opponent. → Electoral College deliberation in Congress The Electoral College deliberation in Congress is a crucial step in finalizing the U.S. presidential election. Key points include: 1. Timing: The Electoral College meets in Congress in January following the election to confirm the results. 2. Purpose: This meeting o"cially validates the outcome of the presidential election. 3. Process: During this session, Congress counts and certifies the electoral votes from each state. 4. Historical significance: The importance of this event was highlighted on January 6th, when supporters of Donald Trump attacked the Capitol Building during the Electoral College deliberation for Joe Biden's election. 5. Finality: The election results only become o"cial after this Congressional meeting of the Electoral College. 6. Transition of power: Following the Electoral College confirmation, the presidential inauguration takes place in late January, marking the o"cial start of the new president's term. This process underscores the complexity of the U.S. electoral system and the critical role of the Electoral College in finalizing the presidential election results. → Presidentiel inauguration "Swearing in of the president and vice-president" The presidential inauguration, specifically the "swearing in of the president and vice-president," is a significant event marking the o"cial start of a new administration. Here are the key points: Timing: The inauguration takes place on January 20th following the presidential election, which occurs on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. 31 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Ceremony: During the inauguration ceremony, the president-elect and vice-president-elect take their oaths of o"ce. The president swears to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. Location: The ceremony is traditionally held on the steps of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., symbolizing the peaceful transfer of power. Chief Justice Role: The Chief Justice of the United States administers the oath to the president, while a designated o"cial typically administers the oath to the vice-president. Significance: The inauguration signifies the o"cial beginning of the new president's term and is a moment of national unity and celebration, attended by dignitaries, lawmakers, and citizens. Public Participation: The event is often accompanied by parades, celebrations, and various public festivities, allowing citizens to participate in this historic occasion. → Exemples of red states and blue states Red State Blue State Texas: Known for its strong conservative values California: The most populous state, known for and significant Republican voter base. its progressive policies and strong Democratic support. Oklahoma: Consistently votes for Republican New York: A key Democratic stronghold, candidates in both state and federal elections. especially in urban areas like New York City. Alabama: A stronghold for the Republican Party, Illinois: Primarily Democratic, with Chicago especially in presidential elections. being a major center of Democratic politics. Kentucky: Has a history of voting Republican, Massachusetts: Known for its liberal policies particularly in recent elections. and consistent support for Democratic candidates. BONUS POINT : America at a Crossroads with Judy Woodru# Résumé : Le documentaire explore les divisions politiques croissantes aux États-Unis, l'impact du passé racial sur le présent et l'importance du journalisme local pour renforcer la démocratie. Points forts 1. Cette vidéo aborde les tensions politiques et sociales actuelles aux États-Unis, mettant en lumière les luttes pour la justice, les divisions croissantes et les enjeux qui façonnent l'avenir du pays.- Des manifestations pour la justice se déroulent, avec des cris de ralliement exprimant un besoin urgent de changement. - Le discours souligne que les États-Unis vivent une période extraordinaire, marquée par des luttes idéologiques contre le communisme et le radicalisme. - Un moment décisif est évoqué, avec des implications profondes pour l'avenir politique du pays. - Les tensions entre les démocrates et les républicains conservateurs atteignent un point critique, révélant un changement de ton à Washington. 32 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 - En dehors de Washington, une division croissante est ressentie dans le pays, exacerbée par des actes de violence. 2. Cette section explore l'intensification de l'animosité partisane aux États-Unis, illustrant comment les opinions sur l'autre parti sont devenues de plus en plus négatives au cours des dernières décennies.- La montée de l'animosité envers l'autre parti chez les Républicains et les Démocrates. - Une majorité significative des Républicains et des Démocrates perçoivent l'autre parti comme plus malhonnête. - L'augmentation des perceptions d'immoralité entre les partis, passant de 35% à 63% chez les Démocrates et de 47% à 72% chez les Républicains. - Les identités partisanes sont devenues plus enracinées, influençant les interactions sociales et alimentant les stéréotypes négatifs. - La division ressentie au sein des familles et des amis, exacerbée par des groupes de discussion républicains et démocrates. 3. Cette section explore les tensions sociales et politiques aux États-Unis, mettant en lumière les conflits d'identité et les enjeux de l'égalité dans le contexte actuel.- L'importance des interactions sociales au-delà des politiques, avec un focus sur la formation d'identités complexes. - L'évolution des partis politiques en relation avec les droits civiques et leur association avec des groupes marginalisés. - Le contraste entre le désir de progrès vers une démocratie pluraliste et les appels à revenir à un passé idéalisé. - Les élections sont perçues comme une compétition de statut, augmentant les enjeux psychologiques liés à l'identité raciale et culturelle. - La di"culté d'être à la fois libéral et profondément religieux, illustrant des divisions internes au sein des croyances et des valeurs. 4. Ce segment aborde la tragédie de Greenwood et l'évolution de la discussion sur les inégalités raciales à Tulsa, soulignant l'importance de la mémoire collective et de la réconciliation.- Un homme noir a été arrêté pour avoir prétendument agressé une femme blanche, ce qui a conduit à des violences raciales à Tulsa. - Une foule a attaqué Greenwood, tuant des centaines de résidents et détruisant la communauté. - Il y a eu un changement dans la manière dont les disparités raciales sont discutées dans la ville au cours des dernières années. - Le maire a lancé une initiative pour enquêter sur le massacre en utilisant des technologies modernes pour retrouver les victimes. - Il existe un manque de confiance envers la ville en raison de son inaction passée, mais il y a un désir de soutenir les familles des victimes. 33 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 5. Ce segment aborde l'importance des journaux communautaires dans la cohésion sociale et les défis rencontrés par une petite ville du Texas suite à la fermeture de son journal local.- La possibilité de conflits entre di#érentes visions de l'Amérique et la nécessité d'apprendre à délibérer ensemble. - Le rôle historique des journaux communautaires dans l'unification des citoyens en mettant en avant leurs points communs. - La perte d'un journal local, 'The Canadian Record', et son impact émotionnel sur la communauté. - L'importance du journal pour documenter les événements locaux et défendre les intérêts de la communauté. - Le pouvoir de l'information dans la communauté et comment le journal contribuait à faire avancer les choses et à prévenir les problèmes. 6. Ce segment aborde les défis auxquels la démocratie américaine est confrontée, notamment l'impact du journalisme local a#aibli et la polarisation politique croissante.- La force future de la démocratie dépend de la qualité du journalisme local. - Les attitudes tribales et le comportement politique sont préoccupants dans le climat actuel. - Le rôle des médias dans la di#usion des informations contribue à aggraver les problèmes politiques. - Les opinions sur l'élection de Joe Biden et les événements du 6 janvier révèlent des divisions profondes. - L'importance de la responsabilité légale pour ceux qui enfreignent la loi est soulignée. 7. Cette section aborde la polarisation politique actuelle aux États-Unis et son impact sur la société, en soulignant le rôle des dirigeants politiques dans l'alimentation de la dissension parmi les citoyens.- La politique actuelle est toxique et nuit à la cohésion sociale. - Les dirigeants politiques exploitent la polarisation pour diviser et manipuler l'opinion publique. - La polarisation est utilisée comme un outil stratégique pour discréditer les adversaires politiques. - Les croyances persistantes sur l'illégitimité des élections de 2020 menacent la sécurité de la démocratie. 8. Cette section aborde les défis de la division sociale et l'importance de l'engagement civique dans une démocratie fonctionnelle.- La facilité avec laquelle nous pouvons être divisés est préoccupante, souvent en raison d'un manque de connaissance mutuelle. - La nécessité d'un service national est soulignée comme un moyen de rassembler les gens et de répondre à des besoins civiques non satisfaits. - Pour améliorer notre gouvernement, il est essentiel de surmonter le découragement et de s'engager activement dans le processus électoral. - Les menaces contre la démocratie incitent les citoyens à réfléchir à sa valeur et à s'organiser pour défendre leurs droits. 34 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 CHAPTER 4 : THE 2024 US PRESIDENT ELECTION Trump President Election 5th November→ Trump President 2024. Rappel : Equivalent of ministers in Belguim are called Secretaries. They are at the head of departments, not ministries (term used in British English). Example: Secretary of State, Secretary of Défense etc. These Secretaries are part of the President's Cabinet and lead major executive departments of the U.S. government. Approval ratings (Gallup) - President Biden Gallup : c’est un institut de sondage o"ciel des U.S Latest approval rating (Nov., 2024): 42% → Biden’s rates have fallen following criticism of his consistency and performance in presidential debates. For example, the debate with Trump was chaotic. Term average ( Jan. 20, 2021-present): 43% → Below average since the beginning of his term. Low point ( July, 2024): 36% → That was when he did all sorts of crazy things like tripping on stage. He mixed the names of people with Zelensky "Putin". High point ( Jan. 21-Feb. 2, 2021): 57% → A ses débuts de mandat. 57% is not that high, cause the average for presidents in the last 50 seras has been roughly 55%. 55% of Americans approve of the president who's in o"ce, because 55% is also the percentage of Americans who vote in presidential elections. George W. Bush’s extreme fluctuations : Lowest point: About 30-33% after six months of war in Afghanistan → Low rating was the population's way of saying we disapprove of your policies at this stage. Highest point: Over 90% right after the 9/11 attacks, the highest in Gallup poll history → A high rafting indicates the population rallying behind the president in times of crisis. 35 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 2016 Popular Vote : - Trump : 45,9% - Clinton : 48,0% Les résultats par comté parce que les états sont divisés par comté. Conclusion : Les zones urbaines (grandes villes) votent démocrate. Parce qu’il y a plus de diversité ethniques, religieuses et linguistique. Et zones rurales pour républicain, parce qu’ils sont plus conservatrices. Californie Etat bleu, mais comté y a du rouge au centre. Las Vegas Bleu, mais le reste de l’état est rouge. " PLUS: Le nombre de point par Etat change tous les 10 ans après chaque recensement. Comme la Floride qui est passé de 29 à 30 aujourd’hui. EN 2026, les démocrate ont perdu les Etats de la 'Rust Belt’, plusieurs raison à ça: Mécontentement économique, surtout chez la classe ouvrière ("blue-collar workers"), promesse de Obama non tenus, envie d’un candidat hors de l'establishment traditionnel. Key factors in Trump’s victory in 2016 Economic dissatisfaction and populism: Economically marginalized Americans left behind by globalization and technological change Promise to bring back manufacturing jobs appealed particularly to workingclass voters in the Rust Belt = many swing states (états pivot) Appeal to anti-establishment sentiment: Strong anti-establishment sentiment →Trump = political outsider who would "drain the swamp.” → se présente comme un rebelle, outsider. → "drain the swamp.", expression qu’a utilisé Trump pour Washington D.C, "assécher un marécage". Il faisait ainsi allusion au fait que Washington D.C. était un marécage infesté de sales bestioles, de politiciens corrompus, et qu'il allait tirer la bonde pour vider ce marécage et en chasser tous les politiciens malhonnêtes. 36 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Targeted messaging and social media strategy (comme pour 2020 aussi): E#ectively used social media and bypassed traditional media channels (targeted digital ads to appeal to key demographics) → Facebook, Instagram, il était partout.' → Les électeurs pensaient que la comm de Trump sur les réseaux montrait qu’il était comm eux, qu’il les comprenaient. Que Trump était comme eux, pas au-dessus des autres, un citoyen ordinaire capable de les comprendre. Trump’s messaging on social media resonated with voters, particularly regarding immigration, trade, and nationalism → Ses idées exprimées sur les réseaux, comme l’immigration bah ça faisait échos en eux. A Illustration du populisme, exploiter la peur de la population. Key factors in Clinton’s defeat in 2016 Clinton’s email scandal and trust issues: Scandal dominated media coverage → negative perceptions → Elle a utilisé son téléphone personnel pour des conversations professionnelles et a été perçu comme non fiable de puis cette a#aire. Et Trump a exploité ce scandale a son avantage. Polarizing identity and gender dynamics: First female candidate from a major party = complex e#ects on her campaign. Backlash from voters who have gender biases or who felt uncomfortable with her breaking traditional gender norms in politics Studies indicate gender biases may have influenced voter behavior, contributing to her narrow losses in key states Campaign strategy and key state failures: Campaign strategy focused heavily on urban and suburban voters → Obama avait gagné tous les swing states (Rust Belt) et elle s’est dit c’es dans la poche aussi. 48h l’équipe a compris leur erreurs en voyant les sondages et ont été de rattraper en Pennsylvanie et Ohio. Underestimated traditionally Democratic, rural, and working-class regions, especially in critical swing states (Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania) → Elle a estimé qu’elle allait avoir les états que Obama avait gagné, elle a pas réussir à avoir la classe ouvrière parce qu’elle s’est associée au "white-collered" (homme blanc ayant un emploie de bureau, poste pro) et non au "white-skinned" people. Donc les ouvriers ne se sont pas reconnus en elle, et a perdu les état comme Michigan, Wisconsin et la Pennsylvanie. 37 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Key factors in Biden’s victory in 2020 Contexte politique de l’élection de cette année-là : - Donald Trump a contesté les résultats, accusant de fraude électorale parce que les élections se déroulent pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, ce qui a conduit à des options de vote par correspondance. - Il déclare que l'élection a été volée et incite ses partisans à ne pas accepter les résultats. + Son discours avant l'attaque du Capitole est considéré comme un appel à la violence contre les institutions démocratiques. - Historique venant d’un président : il a été destituée deux fois par le Congrès, mais les tentatives de destitution n'ont pas abouti, et il a été acquitté lors des deux procédures. - ⚠ Malgré sa défaite durant le mandat de Biden Trump n’a fait que des campagne et maintenir sa popularité parmi ses partisans. Response to COVID-19 pandemic: Trump's pandemic management criticized Economic concerns and health care: Pandemic-driven economic and health concerns boosted Biden’s appeal with promises of stability and expanded healthcare High voter turnout and Democratic mobilization: Biden successful in mobilizing young voters → peut-être à cause des célébrités. Appealed to diverse demographics: the working-class in the Rust Belt AND suburban woman and college-educated voter → De plus, il faisait partie de la classe ouvrière "blue-collar workers", donc les électeurs se sont reconnus en lui. Black Lives Matter movement and social justice issues: Biden gained support through social justice advocacy, especially in communities of color →Il a adoption de politiques visant à réduire l'impact des forces de police dans certaines régions des États-Unis. " PLUS: Des experts ont déclaré que son élection a été gagné grandement grâce au fait qu’il était Vice-président de Barack Obama surtout dans les états clé. Biden a historiquement gagné des états traditionnellement rouges, la Géorgie est l’Arizona qui font 27 points. Les purples states (Swing states / battleground states) 4 sur 6 sont devenues bleus. Biden s’est concentré sur ces états, en utilisant des gestes symboliques comme retrousser ses manches et porter des casques pour établir un lien avec les ouvriers, 38 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Key factors in Trump’s victory in 2024 E#ective social media strategy and influencer endorsements: Robust social media campaign boosted appeal among younger male voter (55%) → Encore plus avec Elon Musk. Economic concerns and inflation: Dissatisfaction with the state of the economy, inflation, and job insecurity = attributing these issues to Democratic policies → People are concert about inflation. Support from populist and working-class voters: Trump continued to draw strong support from the working class, a core of his previous electoral base (≠ Harris + Clinton in 2016). → C’était ça base électoral en 2016. Perception of weakness in Harris’s campaign: Harris’s campaign more moderate (≠ Trump’s strong stances). Critics argued her messaging was often inconsistent Key factors in Harris’s defeat in 2024 Gender and racial biases: Certain segments of voters may have harbored biases against her due to her gender or race → Research has indicated that female and non-white candidates often face implicit biases that a#ect public opinion and media representation (Pew Research Center 2024) → The part of the United States is still deeply anchored in this old fashioned white supremacist, sexist background. Shorter Campaign Period (4month): Harris’s campaign was much shorter and less established than Trump’s → Studies show that candidates with more established campaign structures and longer engagement periods with voters tend to have higher chances of success due to better organization and voter familiarity (Pew Research Center – 2024) → He never left the camapaign Positioning on foreign a#airs such as Israel: Harris’s stance on the conflict was always seen as more moderate which may have been seen as a sign of weakness on her part. → She didn’t take a clear position, and → Sa position par rapport à la Palestine, elle n’a jamais pris une position clair pour les Américains qui voit comme un problème. 39 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 Which states did Trump flip and why ? Florida: strong support amine working-class votera and older demographics, surtout suburbain (balnlieu) areas. Ohio: Trump focus on. Manufacturing jobs and economic recovery, appealipng to blue-collar jokers who Felt neglected by Biden. Iowa: Trump's agricultural policies and promises to support farmers resonated. He won this State in 2016. North Carolina: He won here because of the policies on immigration and economic growth. Texas: traditionally a Republican stronghold, Trump’s appeal to Hispanic votes, particularlly those concerned about économie issues. → His campaign strategies e#ectively addressed the specific needs and concerns of these groups, enabling him to flip or maintain crucial states in the election. Who voted for who in 2024 (only outstanding numbers) 40 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 CHAPTER 5 : AMERICAN IDENTITY Colonial and Early National Perioid (1607-1820) I. Initial European settlements (see Chapter 2 – Institutions) " PLUS: Back in 60’ : This is the period of American history we refer to as the desegregation years. Slavery was legal all the way up to the end of the Civil War, where the federal government actually passes the 13th Amendment, banning slavery, giving African Americans the right to vote, and making them citizens of the United States. Slavery is banned then, in the 1860s, but between the 1860s and the 1960s, the United States will be heavily segregated. But, there will be separate facilities for whites and blacks in the United States, especially in the South, which was more slavery for African Americans. In the 50s and 60s, the desegregation movement starts, with key names such as Rosa Parks, who refuses to give up her seat on an Alabama bus, violating the local laws in Montgomery, Alabama. In the following years, after Rosa Parks' rebellion, there will be a number of other key events that will be taking place in the U.S, which will eventually lead to : → In the 1960s, the passing of landmark legislation signed by Lyndon B. Johnson, who was actually John F. Kennedy's vice president, who took over when Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. The assasination of President John F. Kennedy and its aftermath : 1. Speculation on Kennedy’s assassination : - Some people argue that John F. Kennedy might have actually been assassinated for his vert stark positions on the question of desegregation. - Racist Americans might have wanted to remote him from o"ce. 2. Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency : - As Kennedy’s vice president, he Took over after the assassination in Dallas. - Passed signifiant desegration legislation - Banned discrimination based on race and genrer in all U.S public o"ces. Despite legislative progress, racism persisted in American society This period marked a significant turning point in American civil rights history, though the passage acknowledges that legislative changes alone did not eliminate racism in the United States. " PLUS: "A Nation of Immigrants" → publié en 1964 après son assassinat. L’idée c’est "nation d’immigrant" → “Since 1607, when the first English settlers reached the New World (fondation Jamestown), 40 million people have migrated to the United States, every American who ever lived (…) was either an immigrant himself, or a descendant of immigrants.” → JFK. Biensûr sans la vision des native American. → Le cours ici c’est la création des Etats-unis à aujourd’hui sans les native American. Chili Bowl : same idea for the Salad Bowl, but the sauce bonds it all together = common value (les valeurs qu’on partage et qui se mélange = sauce). 41 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 American immigration history is commonly divided into four Major Periods : a. Colonial and Early National Period (1820-1880) b. The First Great Wave (1820- 1880) c. The second Great Wave (1880-1924) d. Post-1965 Modern Period (1965-today) → Colonial and Early National Period (1820-1880) : First British setters, introduction of African salves Initial European Settlements Immigrants mostly from Northern and Western Europe (Irish, German, Scandinavian), often English-speaking and Protestant. Forced migration of enclave Africans Immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe (Italians, Jews, Poles) and Asia. More culturally and religiously diverse, but Immigrants primarily came from England and other Massive immigration from Latin America, Asia and Africa. European nation, creating population in the U.S. In orange : these were territories that were claimed by Spain, which explains why we still have a lot of Spanish names in these parts of the United States today. In Purple : on the east coast were the territories claimed by Britain, which explains all the British names in this area. Huge chunck in the middle : Louisiana, which was a lot bigger than the current Louisiana. Louisiana was named after King Louis. " PLUS: The French actually held more than one-third of the total U.S. territory, but didn't really care for it, and so sold it to the New American nation. So the French actually covered a very large part of the territory, which also explains why you still have a lot of French names in Central America today 42 English I : Language, society and culture GERM-B450 II. Territorial expansion in the 1700s and 1800s (See painting slide 10) Between the 1700s and the early 1800s, the U.S. expanded from a small collection of 13 colonies along the East Coast to having its present-day shape : Purchases: Notable acquisitions include: - Louisiana Purchase (1803): Acquired from France, and annexing a number of territories. - Florida: Purchased from Spain. America is going to get its present-day shape in 100 years. Purchases by Wars: - The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) led to the annexation of vast territories, including Texas, California, Know that America gained its present-day shape in this period. Nevada, Utah and Colorado. The expansion of U.S. territory in the 18th and 19th centuries, beginning with the construction of ra

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