What does it really mean to be American? Some people say it's for learning a completely new language, for being religious, that you were supposed to be born here in the United States (or if your parents were born here), or that you have an ethnic background. But it's really about committing to the political ideals of freedom, equality and republicanism. Also be nationalistic and patriotic towards your country. Today there are many reasons or ways to be an American, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights/Constitution, the National Anthem, and so much more. The defining quality of being American is the right way to have freedom. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay In the Bill of Rights, the First Amendment talks about free speech, which means that an American has the right to express his opinion; also help serve our country by standing up for what we believe is right; make your own decisions. In the Ninth Amendment, it simply describes the government granting us certain rights. The purpose of the Bill of Rights is to protect us from government overstepping its powers to violate our rights. In the Bill of Rights there are many concepts of "America", such as freedom of religion, the right to have trials, the right to bear arms and much more. Freedom of religion allows people to choose which religion to believe in and follow. , or perhaps not to believe it at all. As Americans, everyone should be honored to have these privileges, as most other countries are not fortunate enough to have as much freedom as ours. Freedom is what sets us apart from other countries and many people have lost their lives fighting for their freedom. As an American, everyone should be proud of their country. In the Declaration of Independence, the key phrases that basically explain everything are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. This phrase says that all human beings have been given, by their Creator, the protection of which governments establish. Another phrase would be “separate but equal.” This explains that people are different, but also the same, and should be treated as completely equal. The Declaration of Independence serves many purposes based on liberty, personal responsibility, private property, and much more. Our respect for the rule of law and our commitment to equal justice for all. Finally, in the national anthem, the purpose of its source of pride and cultural meaning for citizens, creates allegiance and loyalty to the respective country, a reminder of important national, cultural and patriotic events. The national anthem was written by Francis Scott Key while watching the attack from a British prisoner ship. When the battle ceased the following morning, Key pointed his telescope at the fort and saw that the American flag was still flying. From that day, Key was inspired to write a poem that was later adopted as the national anthem of the United States – “The Star Spangled Banner.” of literature have some relationship to the idea of ​​America, such as the American dream. The American Dream represents traditional social ideals of the United States, such as equality, freedom, and opportunity. As well as a life of personal happiness and material comfort as traditionally sought by individuals in the United States. A great example of how not to achieve the American Dream is “The Great Gatsby.” “The Great Gatsby” is a great example of someone who fails to achieve the American dream because Jay Gatsby, the main character of the novel, is considered a selfish and dishonest man, who shows no signs of courage, but.