The term “American Dream” is well established in our culture, yet it has seemingly managed to escape a clear, concise definition. It can be a state of mind, an expression, and ideological fixation, or even an idea; nevertheless while there is little disagreement regarding the existence of such a term, its true meaning is disputed. “It is the promise inherent in the idea of America itself.” Creating America or “The American Dream is not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of a social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position.” The Epic Of America Both excerpts show an opinion of the American Dream. For me, the America Dream is the ability to be successful, earn a steady income, live in a land that is free and democratic, and receive a well rounded education regardless of your nationality, birthplace, country of citizenship or religion.
To me, the American Dream is something that it accessible to anyone who steps foot onto American soil. The classic view of “the split level ranch house in the suburbs, the healthy 2. 3 children, and an ever-changing model of the American made car” Creating America ties into the aspects that we equate with the American dream: money, social equality, power, success and democratic ideals.” While not every American has the aforementioned things, the distinction can be made when we realize that they have the ability to get them. The usage of the term “American” evokes a wide array of questions. Such an encompassing term should undoubtedly speak for all Americans. Then, what is an American? Suppose we were to define an American as someone who either was born in the Unites States, has citizenship, or who is in the country at the present moment.
Using that definition one must assume that ideal is consistent among all of the various factions of people that are American. America is recognized for its democratic principles and value of freedom. Consequently many immigrants flock to the shores of the United States annually so that they may live in a country that does not oppress them, allows them to work and earn an income without lofty taxation and not only allows, but encourages them to get an education. Such ideals are rare around the world and even so the welcoming of immigrants in other countries is by far less amiable than it is in the United States. If one was to look at the government of Saudi Arabia, then it would become apparent that power in that country is associated with lineage and family honor. In America, everyone, “regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position” have the right and the ability not only to hold an office of power, but to vote and participate freely whatever they so choose.
The American dream, while it is not concisely defined, is a value that is inherent in all Americans. It can be closely compared to the principles of freedom and equality. The American dream is to have a chance, have an education, and have a job.