NC A Diverse Population

NC A Diverse Population

A Mix of People

Different groups of people in North Carolina have their own cultures. Each culture is unique. Differences in cultures include the clothing people wear, the foods they eat, the music they listen to, and the languages they speak.

Open Ended

What are some ways that cultures are different?

In addition to differences between cultures, there are also differences within each culture. Many cultures change over time. For example,

most American Indians in North Carolina today dress much as everyone else does. At certain times, however, they may dress in the kinds of clothing worn by their ancestors.

Regardless of their different backgrounds, North Carolinians are proud of their state’s heritage. A heritage is a way of life or a belief that has come from the past and continues today. The North Carolina Arts Council gives awards to artists who help preserve the state’s heritage. Past winners of the state’s Heritage Awards include a gospel musician and a Cherokee weaver.

Open Ended

Use the word "heritage" in a sentence about yourself.

North Carolinians All

The cultures of North Carolinians have all been affected by living in the state. People sometimes change their cultures when they come into contact with people from other backgrounds. For example, the banjo first came from West Africa. Over time, it became an important instrument in country and bluegrass music.

Multiple Choice

What is the banjo an example of?

• cultural change

• forgetting heritage

• honoring leaders

• sharing government

Open Ended

What things from other cultures are a part of your life?

Although North Carolinians come from different backgrounds, they have much in common. All are part of North Carolina and the United States. North Carolinians live under many of the same laws and share many of the same leaders as other Americans. Like all Americans, they have rights guaranteed, or promised, to them by the Constitution.

Multiple Choice

What is the meaning of the word guaranteed?

• changed

• forgotten

• promised

• adopted

Having people of many cultures in the state helps North Carolinians enjoy richer lives. It is also the reason people in North Carolina seem so different yet alike in many ways.

Multiple Choice

What do all North Carolinians share?

• They belong to the same ethnic groups.

• They have the same ancestors.

• They live under the same state and national laws.

• They have the same beliefs.