What Does It Mean to Be American?

Diverse group of Hipanic and African American friends wave American flags at Independence Day parade in their community. They are each waving and holding a flag. They are dressed casually.
Americans come from many different backgrounds, but all believe in the American Dream.

In July, we celebrate Independence Day. July 4th is known as the United States’ birthday, and many Americans enjoy the day. It is the day that the Declaration of Independence was written. Americans see it as a time to show their American pride. The Fourth of July can also be a time to reflect. What does it mean to be an American?

Certain principles [basic truths] from the Declaration of Independence formed the foundation of the United States. One of the biggest is the idea of life, liberty [freedom], and the pursuit of happiness. Everyone has a different idea of what would make our lives great. Americans believe that individuals should be free to make those choices for themselves. This is often called the American Dream.

The American Dream tells us that with hard work, you can be whatever you want to be. No two people are the same, and everyone has different opportunities. However, Americans believe that with drive and focus, they can make their dreams come true.

This idea has brought people from all over the world to America. People have carried different ideas and cultures to America. However, there is one dream that unites all Americans: the American Dream.

What Do You Think? What does it mean to be an American?

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