Adlai Stevenson, American Vice President and Congressman, once stated that “America is much more than a geographical fact. It is a political and moral fact- the first community in which men set out in principle to institutionalize freedom, responsible government, and human equality.” In my opinion, this is true. America is more than just a place but it must have people, firm believing American’s to stand beside their country and their peers to keep this dream alive and protected. In class we were asked to name words that described what it meant to be American and there were many different words thrown out: hope, freedom, diversity, equality, ect. To each individual person being “American” meant something completely different depending on their background. Sometimes a person can feel intimidated by a peer if they have a politically different view of what you believe is considered American. Although I heard other people’s definition of their American Identity, my own idea stood steadfast. I believe an American is one who has passion, determination, and courage to stand beside their beliefs even though confronted by an opposing force. An American should be accepting of other races but stay true to who they are and what they believe in. When I think of what a true American looks like, I always think of the military. Men and women who give their lives every day for people thousands of miles away, some people even who don’t ever take the time to say thank you. An American is one who is grateful for what they have, and give service to those in need. My American Identity definition and idea is my own, and although it may differ from another’s that shouldn’t matter, because this is what America is to me.
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