While stereotypes are generally created upon fragments of truth, it is important to note that these "accepted-as-true facts" are not always applicable to every individual. Thus, although many people in the Midwest/Great Plains region may showcase these stereotypes (both positive and negative), these stereotypes are not representative of 100% of the general population.
While stereotypes are generally created upon fragments of truth, it is important to note that these "accepted-as-true facts" are not always applicable to every individual. Thus, although many people in the Midwest/Great Plains region may showcase these stereotypes (both positive and negative), these stereotypes are not representative of 100% of the general population.
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==Common Myths==
==Common Myths==
Revision as of 21:01, 24 March 2013
A ranch in Valentine, Nebraska
What are common stereotypes/myths about the Great Plains?
Both positive and negative stereotypes exist for Midwesterners. Often perceived as being family-oriented, the "typical" Midwesterner stays close to his/her roots of tradition. Living in a conservative society that places a high value on the morals of religion, this "representational figure" is additionally endowed with the traits of caring and compassion, sociability, and a strong work ethic. Such "positive" traits can be seen as reflective of the Midwestern values of freedom, widespread education, and tolerance for accepted norms.
Many of the roots of the "negative" traits originate from the strong Protestant/Christian background of many Midwesterners. To people on the East and West Coasts, the emphasis on religion often causes them to view Midwesterners as being "backward." This negative viewpoint perceives the "typical" Midwesterner as being gullible, uncultured, unintelligent, and technologically disadvantaged. However, the people of the Great Plains continue to cherish their valued heritage. [1]
Although simple mindedness and innocence may be thought of as being negative traits by a majority of the non-Midwestern population, the inhabitants of the Great Plains view these labels in a different light. They often prize themselves for being "pure of heart," being able to avoid the "corruptive "influences of mainstream society. Turning away from a life complicated with materialistic desires/ambitions enables Midwesterners to focus upon people-to-people relationships.
While stereotypes are generally created upon fragments of truth, it is important to note that these "accepted-as-true facts" are not always applicable to every individual. Thus, although many people in the Midwest/Great Plains region may showcase these stereotypes (both positive and negative), these stereotypes are not representative of 100% of the general population.
Common Myths
Examples of Midwestern Myths:
The "rural" stereotype of the Midwest
The "Garden of the World"
The "Great American Desert"
Manifest Destiny
The Closed Frontier
The Safety Value
A Democratic Utopia
(Below, I will explain and analyze the Midwestern myths that are listed above. For now, I have included filler material under each section so that I can anchor the pictures to the page.)
The "Garden of the World":
This myth originates from the belief that "fourscore and seven years ago, our forefathers brought upon this earth a new continent, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
In this "humorous" cartoon about the U.S., the cosmopolitan view of Nebraska is that it is located "somewhere" in the middle of the country.
The "Great American Desert":
This myth originates from the belief that "fourscore and seven years ago, our forefathers brought upon this earth a new continent, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
Manifest Destiny:
This myth originates from the belief that "fourscore and seven years ago, our forefathers brought upon this earth a new continent, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
The Closed Frontier:
This myth originates from the belief that "fourscore and seven years ago, our forefathers brought upon this earth a new continent, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
The Safety Valve:
Stereotypes can literally create a map of the United States.(Picture courtesy of prettypenny4306.blogspot.com)
This myth originates from the belief that "fourscore and seven years ago, our forefathers brought upon this earth a new continent, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
A Democratic Utopia:
This myth originates from the belief that "fourscore and seven years ago, our forefathers brought upon this earth a new continent, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
Notes
1. ^ Global Oneness online. Midwestern United States-Culture. Retrieved February 25, 2013.
How are Great Plains stereotypes and myths portrayed by the media?
