Symbols of the American Dream

The Statue of Liberty stands as a powerful symbol of the American Dream and the promise of freedom for immigrants.

Key features of the Statue of Liberty:

• Gift from France, symbolizing Franco-American friendship
• Designed by Gustave Eiffel and built by Bartholdi
• Represents the Roman goddess Libertas, symbolizing freedom from oppression

Symbolic elements of the statue:

• Seven spikes: representing seven seas and continents
• Torch: symbolizing enlightenment
• Broken shackles: representing the abolition of slavery
• Raised foot: signifying progress
• Tablet: inscribed with the date of the Declaration of Independence

Quote: "The New Colossus," a poem by Emma Lazarus, is inscribed on a plaque inside the statue's pedestal, referring to the statue as the "Mother of Exiles."

Vocabulary: "Libertas" is the Roman goddess of freedom, representing liberation from oppression and tyranny.

Police Brutality and Political Leadership

Police brutality remains a significant issue in the United States:

• Approximately 1,000 people are killed by police annually
• African Americans are 3.5 times more likely to be killed by police
• Most victims are African American men aged 15-34
• 96% of victims are male

Challenges in addressing police brutality:

• Lack of justice for victims and their families
• Escalation of protests against police violence
• Risks faced by police officers, including patrolling alone and prevalence of firearms

Political leadership and its impact on the American Dream:

Donald Trump's presidency (2017-2021):

• First president without prior military or government service
• Implemented tax cuts favoring the wealthy
• Imposed travel bans on several Muslim-majority countries
• Withdrew from international agreements (Paris Climate Accord, Iran nuclear deal)
• Faced numerous protests and controversies
• Lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden, followed by false claims of electoral fraud

Highlight: The storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, during the counting of electoral votes, marked a significant challenge to the democratic process central to the American Dream.

Example: Trump's "wall of lies" and numerous false statements during his presidency highlighted the importance of truth and transparency in political leadership.

Political Impact on the American Dream

The presidency of Donald Trump marked significant changes in Immigration USA aktuell and American policy.

Highlight: Trump's presidency introduced major policy shifts in immigration, trade, and international agreements.

Example: The administration implemented travel bans, attempted border wall construction, and withdrew from international accords.

Quote: The period concluded with unprecedented challenges to electoral integrity and democratic institutions.