The European traveler in America―at least if I may judge by myself―is struck by two
Peculiarities: first the extreme similarity of outlook in all parts of the United States, and
Secondly the passionate desire of each locality to prove that it is peculiar and different
from each other. The second of these is, of course, caused by the first. Every place wishes
to have a reason for local pride, and therefore cherishes whatever is distinctive in the
way of geography or history or tradition. The greater the uniformity that in fact exists,
the more eager becomes the search for differences that may mitigate it.
