TASK DEFINITION: Given a text, write a compressed version of it in a single sentence.
PROBLEM: The nation was bound together by historical experience and by its destiny, its "manifest destiny," in the phrase used to explain the push westward that occurred in the decades leading up to the Civil War.

SOLUTION: The nation was bound together by its "manifest destiny, is used to explain the push westward that occurred in the decades leading up to the Civil War.

PROBLEM: There are two major types of sewing machines used in garment assembly: the lockstitch and the chain-stitch machine. Each type feeds in separate threads above and below the fabric, and these two threads must be connected in some fashion to form a stitch.

SOLUTION: The two major types of sewing machines used in garment assembly are the lockstitch and the chain-stitch. Each feed threads above and below the fabric. These threads connect to form a stitch.

PROBLEM: It would be an understatement to describe the Italians as sports enthusiasts, at least as far as spectator sports are concerned. For millions, Sundays are less sacred for morning Mass than afternoon football (soccer) matches.

SOLUTION:
It would be an understatement to describe the Italians as sports enthusiasts, at least as far as spectator sports are concerned.