The United States was formed on July 4, 1776 as an escape from Britain control. It was founded on the basis of freedom of speech, religion, and fair treatment for all people. Unfortunately, labor was needed and African leaders were willing to sell their people. This led to slavery, which eventually led to protests and, finally, the abolishment of slavery. However, slavery has left lasting effects on the United States, one of them being racism, or “prejudice, discrimination, o