Escola Secundria Dr.

Joaquim Gomes Ferreira Alves

Ano letivo 2013/2014
Disciplina de Ingls
Prof. Ana Oliveira

The
Ameri
caniza
tion
of
Europ
e is a
Myth

Americanization is the term used to describe the influence that the

United States have on the culture of other countries, resulting in the
phenomenon of replacement of one culture by American culture.
As we all know, the United States is the country with the greatest
economic power in the world, so their influence can have a big impact on all
nations. For example, television channels like MTV and CNN are transmitted
globally, which leads to the whole world to be exposed to American culture.
In addition, the Hollywood film industry is often considered the most
influential in the world, leading to that through this and other ways, other
communities are exposed to cultural elements and ways of life of the United
States.
Furthermore, seven of the ten most important trademarks in the world
have their basis in the United States. We have as the greatest example the
Coca-Cola, the most important one, which is often seen as a true symbol of
Americanization. Next, we have the branch of computers, whose biggest
companies are American, like Microsoft, Apple, and others. Likewise, fast
food companies such as Starbucks, McDonalds, Burger King, Pizza Hut and
KFC appear so much in advertisements that they make these products part
of our everyday lives.
However, the undeceived, who think that the Americanization only
occurs because the United States is the country with the greatest economic
power, are mistaken, because in reality, they also encourage a massive
dissemination through the media, including TV, movies and music, thus
introducing their culture throughout the world.
And who will exert greater influence?
The greatest influence of American culture begins with the young
people, because they are the most receptive to fashions, arts and other
characteristics of the Americanization. Nevertheless, that fact is no different
in Europe and leads to America being the dream for any young European
and everything that is American is unconsciously archetype.
Concluding, for all these and many other reasons, I consider that the
Americanization of Europe is not a myth, but a very present reality.

Ana Cludia Sousa n1 12C