Definition Of What It Means To Be An American Essay

The true definition of the word country is: and nation with its own government, occupying a particular territory. To people from other places, America is just another country full of audacious idiots. To others it is a place where anyone can become anything. America, to Americans, is home, it's a place where families come together, and have the rights to do as they wish. To be an American means having pride in where you are from and knowing where you stand. "Death to America," has been used as a chant by the Iranian people since 1979 when the Iranian revolution took place. The Iranians do not like Americans for the same reason many other countries do not. Americans are different. America is a land of free people. Countries whom despise America, despise that the land is free. But Americans love that, it is what makes this land extremely beautiful. People of any race, sex, or religion can come here. Anyone can be American. "An informed patriotism is what we want," this quote, from Ronald Reagan's farewell speech, explains what he thinks it means to be an American. "Those of us 35 or so years of age grew up in a different America. We were taught, very directly, what it means to be an American." Reagan later goes on to explain how he acquired his appreciation of his country. …show more content…
"But now... Some things have changed. Younger parents aren't sure that an unambivalent appreciation of America is the right thing to teach modern children." Reagan claims the popular culture does not include "well rounded patriotism." The former president is completely correct with his claims. People will start forgetting what it means to be an American if it is not taught. Children will not have pride in the nation that sacrifices itself. "America is freedom… And freedom is special and rare. It's fragile, it needs protection," said Reagan. To be an American means to protect America. To protect