The article discusses America's historical mobility, which once defined its society and prosperity. In the 19th century, a third of Americans changed addresses annually, illustrating a distinct preference for relocation. This mobility allowed individuals to escape stagnant social conditions and seek better opportunities, fostering a unique national character. However, there is a sense of decline in this mobility in recent times, leading to concerns about stagnation and its implications for American values and progress. Efforts to revive this mobility may be essential for re-establishing the nation's dynamism.
The idea that people should be able to choose their own communities-instead of being stuck where they are born-is a distinctly American innovation.
No society has ever been as mobile as the United States once was; a third of all Americans changed addresses each year in the 19th century.
As the 19th century turned into the 20th, Americans kept on moving. They broke away from stultifying social hierarchies and dead-end jobs.
#american-mobility #societal-change #geographical-stagnation #history-of-mobility #cultural-insights
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