What does it mean to be American?

People in the United States differ greatly in beliefs, physical appearances, and heritage; yet we all call ourselves Americans. We feel prouder than ever to say “I am American,” raising American flags, wearing symbolic shirts, and showing true patriotism. But what really makes us American? What is the common factor that unites us? Is it our pride in our country? Our culture and style? Or maybe it is our liberties granted to us by the constitution? America spans three centuries and over eight generations. A lot has transpired in that time to make us into who we are today. All in all, America has a very diverse society and a multitude of rights, which give us our identity.

What is an American?

An American is a “Citizen of the United States.” This citizen has certain unalienable rights outlined by the constitution, including the freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to vote for our leaders. This citizen has the right to bear arms, they have the opportunity for free public education, and the right to protest. They also have the right to express opposing views.

What does being an American mean enjoying more security, freedom, and liberty than any other nation in the world. Americans have the opportunity to become what ever they desire, and they can choose their future, whether they are successful or not. People have the freedom to do as they want to do, and say what they want to say. Therefore, what does america mean to you have “the quality or state of being free.” As Andrew Jackson says, “Freedom is fragile and must be protected. To sacrifice it, even as a temporary measure is to betray it.” Freedom is not something that should be taken for granted.

For a person to be a true American, they also must have pride in their country. They must show general respect and patriotism. They must cherish our flag and what it represents: Freedom and Equality for All. What does American means to be grateful of the country our ancestors provided for us. Showing true patriotism, Nathan Hale said, “I regret that I have but one life to give for my country.”

Another important trait of being an American is hard work. Benjamin Franklin, a strong supporter of work ethic, wrote various aphorisms on the subject. “No gains without pains,” and “God helps those that help themselves.” These are a few examples of his belief that one will reek benefits if he or she is only willing to work for them. Hard work is a very important characteristic of what America is. It is what our country was built upon and could not stand or continue to run without. As John D. Rockefeller said, “I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity an obligation; every possession, a duty.” An American is bombarded with many responsibilities, obligations, and duties every day.

Next, Americans are always trying to improve the quality of life for the next generation. All parents hope that their children will have it better than they did when they were growing up. Our Constitution provides for this constant want for improvement because it is a “living document.” As the world changes, so can our government to fit our needs.

What does it mean to be American? Surely, there are multiple definitions. In my opinion, an American is someone who is living “free”, believing in his freedoms, exercising his rights established by the constitution, has pride in his country and the constant effort to make it better.

Works Cited

• Faust, Drew Gilpin. This Republic of Suffering: Death and the American Civil War. New York, Alfred A. Knopf, 2008.
• Mari, Christopher, and Paul McCaffrey. The American Presidency. New York, H.W. Wilson Co., 2008.
• https://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/20/us/what-does-it-mean-to-be-american.html