Grammar, Usage, and Style Guide: SparkNotes Ultimate Style: Ultimate Style: Cultural Terms

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Usage

Organizations

In general, capitalize only the names of specific cultural and political groups.

• Chester is a card-carrying member of the Communist Party.

• Chester has certain communistic impulses.

• On the weekends, Mandy stumps for Democrats.

• In our democracy, everyone is free to eat fast food.

Culture

Here is a brief list of some capitalized and lowercased cultural terms.

Historical Documents

Capitalize the names of historical documents.

• the Bill of Rights; the Constitution; the Fifth Amendment

Historical Periods and Events

Some names of historical periods and events are capitalized. Others are not. If you’re not sure, refer to a dictionary.

• the Victorian era; the Renaissance; the colonial age; the civil rights movement; Prohibition; D-day

Religious Groups

Capitalize the names of religious groups.

• Christianity, Christian; Islam, Islamic; Catholicism, Catholic; Judaism, Jewish

Schools and Institutions

Capitalize the names of schools and institutions.

• The students of Columbia University often visit the Whitney Museum.

• Members of the Patriots got haircuts before their visit to the White House.

• The National Organization for Sub-Par Golfers (NOSPG) held a meeting in Miami.

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