Food
& Drinks
& Drinks
This type of formal meal, still common today, was popularized by early New England WASPs.
Formal multi-course dinner
WASPs emphasized this trait, considered key for proper behavior and social status.
Politeness or manners
Early WASPs were often part of this social class, distinguishing them from immigrants.
Upper or elite class
WASPs brought this architectural style to colonial America, still seen in many old homes today.
Georgian style
WASPs valued formal education, helping to found many of these in New England.
Colleges or private schools
WASPs favored this breakfast beverage, which became a national staple.
Coffee
This Protestant practice shaped early American holidays and community gatherings.
Attending church or religious observance
Wearing this type of clothing indicated wealth and status among early WASPs.
Formal attire or tailored suits/dresses
Many early public buildings (like churches and town halls) were influenced by this style.
Colonial or Colonial Revival
Early WASPs often emphasized learning this skill for religion and commerce.
Reading/literacy
A type of pie commonly served at holidays in early WASP households.
Apple Pie
WASPs often encouraged children to keep diaries or journals, fostering this skill.
Literacy or writing
This type of club or society was common for networking and reinforcing status.
Gentlemen’s club or social club
WASP influence often included large gardens or lawns; this term describes a decorative outdoor space.
Formal garden
These private collections eventually led to public institutions and the founding of libraries.
Personal or private book collections
This kind of Sunday meal was a family tradition among many WASP families.
Sunday roast or dinner
The idea that men and women had clearly defined roles at home comes from early WASPs, called this system
Separate spheres ideology
Owning and maintaining these estates showcased wealth among wealthy WASP families.
Manor homes or country estates
Wealthy WASPs often included this room in their homes for entertaining or showing status.
Parlor or drawing room
This Ivy League university reflects strong WASP influence in its founding and traditions.
Harvard
Early WASPs influenced the concept of this modern meal timing, still used today in schools and workplaces.
Lunch as a separate midday meal
WASPs popularized a form of etiquette that influences greeting and social introductions today.
Formal calling cards or proper introductions
The WASP influence on America’s elite continues in this practice in modern politics and business.
Networking through exclusive social circles
Some American universities reflect WASP architectural influence, often using these stone facades and quadrangles.
Collegiate Gothic style
WASP communities encouraged these clubs for young men and women to develop cultural refinement.
Literary societies or debating clubs