Essay About Being An American

Americans have always been a proud people, very competitive, and full of courage. Examples of this are shown in many generational moments such as the Revolution, Civil War, Pearl Harbor bombing, and the attack on the World Trade Center. Despite all these man-made calamities, America continues to rebound and come back better than before. When the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, a high-ranking Japanese official once stated,”I am afraid we have awoken a sleeping giant,” and, was found to be more than right.
What does it mean to be an American? Being an American is not as simple as living in America, it also constitutes being strong in American values (courage, faith, freedom, etc.), as well as showing bravery in times of crisis. The United States has always been a forerunner of advancement and a bastion of democracy to the world. Today, America is also leading the world in technology, such as YouTube, space missions, and electric automobiles. Americans are not afraid to be outspoken and stand up for what they believe is right. In times of crisis, our citizens have always found ways to gather together and become stronger through each other.
One common theme found in being an American is the ultimate form of respect, sacrifice. A great example of this is the extraordinary men and women who serve in the armed forces,
Examples of this vary from donations (money, clothes, items) to acts of kindness, and are shown every day. After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, the aftermath was devastating. Thousands of people were displaced and not only without personal items, but also without personal necessities like food, water and clothing. Almost instantly, charities like the Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity began to respond to the crisis and helped many back on their feet. Americans throughout the United States donated practically anything they could find and sent it to those in