What It Means To Be An American Essay

America is currently at a pivotal point in its history. Election day is rapidly approaching, and the person chosen as president will determine America’s role in the years to come. At such a crucial turning point, it is important that citizens consider the question: ‘What does it mean to be an American?’ A person’s answer to this question can vary greatly, often based on economic standing or political party. However, there are certain pillars of American society that have been core values since the founding of our nation, and that apply to every citizen, no matter what the circumstances. America has always been the land of opportunity, where every citizen is given the chance to grow. To be an American means to be an innovative, developing member of a free society with the initiative and drive to constantly seek a better life for yourself and for all of America. The most fundamental aspect of being an American, which is …show more content…
In the founding of our nation, the founding fathers acknowledged that Americans needed a new type of government than the established ones; a government that would serve all the needs of the people. We have constantly pushed the limits of progress and scientific advancement. An iconic American image representing innovation is the American Moon Landing. Another key feature of American innovation is the ability of Americans to adapt and grow to fit a changing cultural environment. Kesaya Noda’s family is a great example of adaptation. Despite facing racial hatred, they founded a new life and a new community, and still maintained their Japanese customs while adapting to American life (Noda, 1989). America has changed its way of thought as a country and changed its government many times to suit the needs of the people, and this growth and adaptation is what has given America its prominent position on the global