What did the closure of the frontier imply about American identity and culture?

The closure of the frontier in the late 19th century had significant implications for American identity and culture, particularly in reinforcing the idea of American exceptionalism. The frontier had long been viewed as a space of opportunity and growth, where individuals could move westward to seek their fortunes and manifest their destinies. With the official declaration that the frontier was closed in 1890, many Americans began to reflect on what this meant for their national identity.

The closing of the frontier meant that the traditional narrative of exploration and settlement was no longer viable, leading to a new understanding of what it meant to be American. It sparked discussions about the unique character of the United States, emphasizing the belief that America had a special role in the world, distinct from other nations. This belief in American exceptionalism was rooted in the idea that the U.S. had a unique ability to create a democratic society based on individualism and opportunity.

In response, many Americans started to look for new ways to express this identity and uphold the ideals associated with it, even in the absence of an expansive frontier. This shift also led to an increased focus on urbanization and industrialization, as people began to look to cities for economic opportunities and social progress. Thus, the closure of the