What is Americanization?

Americanization refers specifically to the process by which immigrants and foreign nationals adopt and integrate into American customs, values, and societal norms. This concept became particularly prominent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as waves of immigrants arrived in the United States. The goal of Americanization was to assimilate these newcomers into the dominant American culture, which often included learning the English language, understanding American democratic principles, and embracing commonly held social and cultural practices.

The other choices do not capture the essence of Americanization as specifically as the chosen answer. Adaptation of American values by foreign nations could suggest a more diplomatic or cultural exchange rather than the focus on individual immigrants assimilating. Maintenance of original cultural practices directly contradicts the idea of Americanization, which emphasizes a shift toward American norms rather than the preservation of foreign customs. Lastly, the promotion of cultural diversity in the U.S. recognizes and values various cultural heritages, which is a different approach than the assimilative nature of Americanization. This helps clarify why integrating immigrants into American customs and values is the central concept associated with Americanization.