Adaptive Radiation
Adaptive radiation is an evolutionary process where a single ancestor gives rise to many new forms or species. The finches on the Galapagos Islands are a famous example. One single ancestor evolved into at least 13 species of finches, each filling a different niche on different islands. The separation of British and American culture (the Australian as well) can be seen a kind of adaptive radiation in cultural evolution. The cultures have diverged culturally: British Cricket became American Baseball, British Rugby became American Football, and British English became American English. The young American environment certainly rewarded bold, proactive and independent behavior more than old, crowded Britain society which rewarded polite and civilized behavior.
