Core American Political Ideals

Freedom: Belief that others should have the ability to choose what to do with their lives, even if disapproved of. Not absolute; limited when actions directly harm others.
Equality:
- Equality of Opportunity: Belief that everyone should have the same chance to succeed (e.g., free public education).
- Equality Under the Law: Government should treat individuals based only on relevant considerations; irrelevant factors (race, gender, religion) should not impact treatment.
Democracy: Rule by the majority, where people are free to vote. Preferred over other forms of government due to the risks of tyranny or oligarchy if power is concentrated and abused (Plato's hierarchy of governments).
Limited Government: Belief that there are things government should not do. Restrictions on government reserve power and rights to individuals (e.g., freedom of speech).
Individualism: Belief that individuals play a significant role in their own successes or failures. People attribute personal success to themselves but may assign broader economic conditions to government.

Ideals can conflict, requiring societies to grapple with which principle to prioritize (e.g., business owner's freedom to hire vs. equality in employment; majority rule vs. limited government protecting unpopular groups).

Historically, people immigrated to the U.S. seeking economic opportunities (e.g., land) and freedoms (escaping tyranny).
Public opinion on immigration has often been more restrictive than actual policies, driven by economic needs (e.g., factory labor in the 19th century).
Waves of immigrants (Irish, German, Southern/Eastern European) faced initial skepticism and policies aimed at assimilation (e.g., public schools for Irish Catholic children).