by Bryan Sherwood

Created on: March 15, 2010

The turn of the twenty-first century was an era of great change for the United States.  Two prominent changes were the development of the Internet and the widespread use of the cell phone. 

Although the American computer scientist Vinton Cerf invented the Internet back in 1973, few people could access it.  In fact, it had originally been designed for the United States Department of Defense’s Advanced Research Projects Agency.  As a result, it only linked certain American universities and research facilities.  However, the Internet’s incredible capability for speedy communication quickly gained popularity for the system, causing its rapid expansion rate.  By 1996, the Internet interconnected more than 25 million computers in over 180 countries.

Today, the Internet remains one of the most vital sources of information, entertainment, and communication in America.  Thanks in part to the development of affordable, easy-to-use computers, the Internet can be found in nearly every American home.  Children and parents alike can commonly be found on the World Wide Web.  Instead of carrying piles books home after a half-an-hour drive to the library, people can access information with the click of a mouse.  As a result, many papers and research projects are done using information found off of the Internet.  These articles can in turn be easily posted online.  In addition, e-mail has also greatly improved communication.  Instead of waiting weeks for a letter to arrive, a person can view electronic mail a few seconds after it has been sent.  Many companies are also taking advantage of Internet communication, and have filled websites with advertisements and promotions.  Lastly, the Internet hosts a great variety of music, videos, and games for people all around the country. 

Unfortunately, the Internet’s ability to rapidly transmit information increases its potential as an insecure area for private information and can be used as a weapon of deceit.  Purchases made online from obscure websites may not be valid or safe.  In addition, the Internet can also be used as a tool for stalkers and those with malicious schemes.  People can easily fake identities online.  Therefore despite its many benefits, the Internet has also created many consequences for Americans. 

Similar to the Internet, cell phones have also become a source of rapid, easy-to-use communication. 

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>