During its history, America has experienced a plethora of tragedies and victories, each marking its identity. But like anything, it didn't evolve overnight into what it is. Politics is the brain of the country, but the people are the heart. The orientation of the first depends on the status of the second and certain events affect the citizens of a country in irreparable ways. War profoundly shakes a nation and transforms every facet of society. Sometimes it's for the best, but not every time. Over the past century, the United States has had the misfortune of going through three wars, each very different. The turn of the century began with World War I, which brought economic and societal changes to the nation, from the rise of progressivism to the beginning of the journey toward women's equality that would shape the political world of the 21st century . As for the next world war, which came too soon, it gave America the long-admired patriotism and unity of thought on a national question. Once again, women during the war transformed their role in society, but this time even more so. However, the economy did not fare as well and suffered even more from Roosevelt's policies and massive tax measures that affected future deficit and budget decisions. Finally, Vietnam was an even greater disappointment to our nation. The riots and movements of the time against communism as the enemy, as well as the media's open hatred of the soldiers, seriously damaged the war and the nation's view of it. Not to mention Nixon's fueling of the welfare beast and the EPA. Overall, despite all the other events in American history, very few have had as much political impact on the nation as World War I, World War II... middle of paper ... ca completely , which would effectively change the nation both politically and socially. Finally, the Vietnam War was rather disappointing. By embarrassing the government, failing to support the troops, and transforming our nation's education, it left an ugly mark that will never be completely erased. In conclusion, wars are perhaps the most influential factor in the formation of a nation, and World War I, World War II, and Vietnam all helped make America what it is today. 'today. “Rethinking history.” Web log publication. http://re-thinkinghistory.blogspot.com/. Np, October 7, 2008. Web.2. Schweikart, Larry and Michael Allen. An American Patriot's Story: From Columbus' Great Discovery to the War on Terror. New York: Sentinel, 2004. Print3. Lozada, Carlos. “The Economy of World War I.” The National Bureau of Economic Research. Np, and Web. April 30. 2014.