Chapter 5: Colonial Society on the Eve of Revolution, 1700-1775. melting pot - The mingling of diverse ethnic groups in America, including the idea that these groups are or should be "melting" into a single culture or people. "Colonial America was a melting pot and has been from the outset." sect - A small religious group that has broken away from some larger mainstream church. 4 5 . American Parties: Parties Today . 5 . Chapter 5, Section 3. The Start of a New Era: The Era of Divided Government. Since 1968, neither Republicans nor Democrats have dominated the presidency and Congress has often been controlled by the opposing party. 1968–1976. Republicans hold the presidency