What Does it Mean to be American

What does it mean to be "American?" What makes it "American?" And how does it make us "American?" American stands for the beliefs, the music, as well as the people that come from this great nation. The beliefs of this great nation speak every language. These beliefs stretch from the furthest reaches of Africa to the city life of New York. These beliefs are pride, freedom, and equality. American means to be proud. It means …

…to be American. Just as the colonists fought the British for Independence in April Morning, they risk their lives, for something they believe in and cherish. These same people also stand for exploration and discovery. To be "American" is to be many things. It means different things to different people, yet they all agree on the basic American traditions and styles. The beliefs, music, and people of a country define the essence of that nation.