In the classic novel The Pioneers by James Fenimore Copper, we are able to see serval examples of characters and ideas that shape the identity of the United states of America. Mores specifically we can see early examples of the frontiersman as the idealized American man, the frontier as something to be protected, and the united states as a nation of immigrants. Most of the characters in The Pioneers are strong, capable men who rely on themselves and value hard work and creativity, for example judge Marmaduke Temple who carves his own paradise out of the unsettled frontier. Many, such as Natty Bumppo are self-made outsiders who thrive on the outskirts of civilization and society. This ideal of the American man would come to shape other figures of American culture such as the noble gunslinger of the westerns or the modern nonconformist but brilliant CEO. Another aspect portrayed in the book that plays an important part in American culture is the idea of the frontier as something to both be built over and at the same time be preserved. The frontier is portrayed as a place for the above mentioned great men to go and seek their fortune and dreams, to build the world that they desire. As the same time however, it is shown to be finite and at risk of disappearing if over settled. This is shown in many characters talking about how the population of animals seems to be decreasing. Finally, The Pioneers depicts a diverse America made up of many different peoples. Characters are shown to follow many different Christian faiths and we see characters from many backroads such as White American, Native American, European, and African American. The backstories of characters also often delve into the situations that brought their ancestors over to America. All of these elements will play an important part in defining the American nation and its identity.