James Truslow Adams: The Definition Of The American Dream

The term, “American dream,” was first used by historian James Truslow Adams. James stated that the American dream was, “That dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for every man, with opportunity for each according to his ability or achievement.” Although the quote states a perfect definition of the American dream, this term can be interpreted in several ways. The American dream is achieving a goal that before was seen as impossible or unlikely, making a decision that could improve the life of future descendants, and having goals that you want to accomplish.

One of the various definitions of the American dream is achieving a goal that before was seen as impossible or unlikely. People feel that some careers or dreams are impossible or unlikely to be completed. They assume they are incapable of reaching their dreams due to their social status and give up trying. For example, someones American dream could be to own a store, but since they don 't know the language spoken, they quit, which might discourage them from continuing. It sometimes feels like everyone has an assigned role to play, and working against it is arduous. Many people that want to achieve their goals aren 't taken seriously as a result of how they dress and where they live. Others might judge and mock for chasing an, “unrealistic,” goal since they don 't have money to afford their materials. These people also don 't have access to support and their talent is often overlooked. The