What Does Underground America Mean

Walt Whitman describes the United States of America by stating, “The genius of the Unites States is not best or most in its executive or legislatures... America is the races of races.” Whitman uses United States of America and America interchangeably, igniting this habit as a social norm throughout history. With this repetitive, conscious replacement, “America” has become synonymous with the United States of America. However, “America” began to develop a meaning beyond the geographic location. It evolved into a value-focused definition, representing a group of people with shared values. The idea that these people are geographically located together became secondary, giving less attention to this detail; hence, these ideals are widespread,
He built up his personality to withstand the constant dejection and hopelessness that came with the inability to register legally in the United States of America. His 5AM mornings to 10PM nights of moving barrels and lifting bags ingrained the need to work until he could support himself. However, he could never support himself fully because of the low wages and unfair atmosphere. Nevertheless, he developed values that assisted his survival and desire to achieve the American Dream. While Enrique was not considered an American, he was still working towards this namesake dream that would hopefully lead him to success and prosperity. All the governmental officials opposing his acceptance label him as not-American, but what they do not realize is that he may not be "American," but is certainly "american." The drive he possesses represents the values required to reach the American Dream, regardless of his legal status, earning him status in
Catherine Sue Ramirez addresses the United States of America migration history in her lecture, where other countrymen temporarily make this country their home. With a focus on work, these men and women, such as those from Sicily, acquired their needs and desires before returning back to their homes. This similarly replicates the American Dream, but focuses clearly on non-citizens. These Sicilians, by legal status nor desire, are not connected to America, or the United States of America; however, the strength they built from their journeys from success can define them as “american.” This association surpasses their geographic location and digs deeper into the people they are. This proves that the American Dream is not only for those who are, or are trying, to be legal Americans, but for anyone who is reaching for a goal beyond the odds. The idea behind this dream is universal and can be used to identify anyone regardless of their citizenship or