British Americans facts for kids
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Total population | |
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Self-identified as British 1,891,234 ![]() 0.6% of the total U.S. population. Other estimates: 90,573,000 23.3% of the total U.S. population |
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Regions with significant populations | |
Throughout the entire United States except parts of the Midwest Predominantly in the South, Northeast and West regions. |
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Languages | |
English (American English, British English), Goidelic languages, Scots, Welsh | |
Religion | |
Christian Mainly Protestant (especially Baptist, Congregationalist, Episcopalian, Methodist, Presbyterian and Quaker) and to a lesser extent Catholic, Latter-day Saint and Eastern or Oriental Orthodox |
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Related ethnic groups | |
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British Americans are people in the United States whose family history comes from the United Kingdom. This includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In 2017, about 1.9 million people said they were British in a survey. This is about 0.6% of the total U.S. population. However, some studies suggest that a much larger number, around 90 million people, have some British background. This group includes people with English, Scottish, Welsh, Scotch-Irish, Manx, and Cornish roots.
Contents
Who Are British Americans?
British Americans are a diverse group. Their ancestors came from different parts of Great Britain and the United Kingdom. Many arrived in America over several centuries. They helped shape the culture and history of the United States.
Early Settlers and Their Impact
Many of the first European settlers in America were from Britain. They came seeking new opportunities. These early groups established the first colonies. They brought their language, laws, and customs with them. This had a big impact on how the United States developed.
Founding the Nation
Many important figures in American history had British ancestors. This includes many of the Founding Fathers. They were key in creating the United States. They helped write the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Their ideas were often based on British traditions of government.
Where British Americans Live Today
British Americans live all across the United States. However, they are especially common in certain areas. You can find many people with British roots in the Southern, Northeastern, and Western parts of the country. They are less common in some parts of the Midwest.
Culture and Contributions
British Americans have contributed greatly to American culture. Their influence can be seen in many areas. These include language, religion, and everyday traditions.
Language and Religion
The main language spoken by British Americans is English. This is the same language spoken in the United Kingdom. Most British Americans are Christian. Many belong to Protestant churches. These include Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians. Some are also Catholic or Latter-day Saints.
Arts and Innovation
People of British descent have made many important contributions. They have excelled in arts, science, and business. For example, the founders of Harley-Davidson were of British ancestry. They created a famous American motorcycle company. Their work shows the spirit of innovation.
Images for kids
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John Trumbull's famous painting, Declaration of Independence. Most of the Founding Fathers had British ancestors.
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Founders of Harley-Davidson, from left: William A. Davidson, Walter Davidson, Sr., Arthur Davidson and William S. Harley.
See also
In Spanish: Inmigración británica en Estados Unidos para niños