What does it mean to be an American?
By: Savannah Shiveley
For centuries of years the United States has been attracting immigrants from a variety of different countries, races, and religions to come live in a land full of freedom and opportunity. These people were looking for more than just rights and privileges. Their real desire was to become something that depicts pride and honor, an American. Being an American means much more than living in the United States. Along with the name come a number of different benefits such as, freedom of speech to express your own opinion, freedom of religion, and equality for all, including different sexes, races, religions and status. As Americans, we should be very proud of the privileges we have because many other countries are not fortunate enough to have all these freedoms. Our freedoms are what set Americans apart from other citizens and countries. Americans have the opportunity to acquire a good education and receive a satisfying career. Apart from some countries, American people of all different races and religions can live and work together because everyone is allowed an equal opportunity. As a people Americans are united with a sense of pride for our country. All Americans should be proud of what the United States has accomplished. Our country has become a major influence to other countries. It is rising to be one of the most developed, wealthy, and most advanced in the world. Another quality that unites all Americans is its unforgettable and monumental past. Monuments, like the Lincoln Memorial, federal holidays such as the 4th of July, and historical landmarks, like war battlefields, are just some locations of a time or place that all Americans can share. These places and memories remind Americans of the struggle our country endured to gain freedom and the sacrifices important heroes made for the