American Studies - American Dream

American Dream Unit Study Guide

What is the American Dream?

The National belief anyone regardless of where they start can achieve success, upward mobility, etc, through hardwork and determination

What was the National Dream for the class?

Wealth, Family, Happiness, Freedom/opportunity

What is the class’ definition of the American Dream?

America provides freedom and opportunity to its citizens to achieve wealth, raise a family, freedom, and obtain happiness.

What was Steinbeck’s argument about the American Dream?

The contradiction of the American way of life, (unattainable illusion for working class that makes reality bearable)

What are the few contradictions in Steinbeck’s argument?

We make money then give it away, once we achieve the American Dream we are never satisfied, we hate the US but think it’s the best country in the world.

What is the nation’s definition of the American Dream?

Being debt-free, living comfortably, financial security, and providing for their family

Why is the nation’s definition different than the class’?

Age difference, kids are already provided and adults have lived longer so their priorities are different.

What is a wealth gap?

unequal disstribution of assets among residents, (values of homes, investments, cars, etc.)

What is an Income inequality?

the unequal distribution of household/individual income across various citizens in economy