Modern us history

[tychejada]

why did the us lag behind several european countries in passing social legislation

[reinganum]

The U.S. in general is economically liberal, but socially conservative. Not surprising since the country was largely colonized by puritans escaping religious persecution in Europe.

That said, there are significant differences between the various States. For example, around 10 or so abolished the death penalty some time ago, some retain it, but it is hardly ever used, and others use it with what might only be called enthusiasm!