The American Dream: Core Principles and Historical Foundations
The American Dream is a fundamental concept in U.S. culture, encompassing ideals of equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This page outlines the key elements that form the basis of this national ethos.
The core principles of the American Dream include material and personal success, equality without class distinctions, a diverse society, individual liberty, and the idealization of self-reliance. These values are deeply rooted in the country's founding documents, particularly the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.
Highlight: The Declaration of Independence, approved on July 4th, 1776, is a pivotal document that asserts the equality of all men and their inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
The concept of the American Dream is closely tied to the nation's history of immigration and the promise of a "new world" offering religious and economic freedom. It emphasizes social mobility, the importance of hard work, and the value of education and self-improvement.
Definition: The American Dream can be defined as the belief that anyone can achieve their highest aims and aspirations regardless of their nationality, gender, or religion if they work hard.
Example: The phrase "from rags to riches" encapsulates the American Dream, suggesting that one can rise from poverty to wealth through determination and effort.
Patriotism plays a significant role in the American Dream, with national symbols and holidays reinforcing this ideal. The page also touches on the historical context of the Puritans seeking independence from England and establishing colonies in America, which laid the groundwork for the values associated with the American Dream.