Is American Culture Becoming Central?

Since the United States is such a young country compared to some of the other superpowers it sometimes seems that we don't have as rich of a culture. France has the largest cycling race in the world, Germany has Oktoberfest. America is a melting pot so we celebrate and recognize all cultures, but it also feels like Americans should have an event to call their own.

This year I realized that March Madness has become a cultural phenomenon for Americans. The tournament brings people together in a way nothing else can. Due to the brackets, people can come together behind teams that they would never root for, or even watch. I also think that it speaks to our focus on educational success as well since the tournament is made up of college teams rather than professionals. March Madness lets Americans cheer for their favorite teams, the teams they wagered money on, and on a different level--the up and coming generation.

As Americans come behind the common enemy, root for the underdog, all focus on the same event--the country comes together. America has always been famous for its mix of cultures, the melting pot idea is central to U.S ideology, but I think every nation--on some level--has to be a complete piece. As our country ages it gains tradition and history. March Madness, for better or for worse, has become a huge part of American culture, and it's here to stay.