The American Dream is often associated with the ideas and values of the Puritans who settled in New England in the 1600s. The Puritans were seeking a new beginning in the New World where they could freely practice their religion and create a society based on their beliefs. Their desire to establish a godly community played a significant role in shaping the early American culture and values (Winthrop, 1630). On the other hand, the settlers in Virginia were motivated by economic interests and the pursuit of individual wealth, which was not a key aspect of the American Dream as it was initially understood. Thus, the roots of the American Dream are often traced back to New England rather than Virginia. Over time, the concept of the American Dream has evolved and expanded to encompass a wider range of aspirations beyond religious freedom and community building. Today, the American Dream is often associated with the idea of upward mobility and the pursuit of financial success, personal freedom, and a better life for oneself and one’s family. The idea of striving for a better future and the belief in the possibility of upward mobility continue to inspire people around the world, and the American Dream remains a symbol of hope and possibility.
The tension between the ideals of the American Dream as espoused by the Puritans and the realities of American life has been a recurrent theme in American history. This tension has been reconciled in various ways across different historical periods and in contemporary culture. In many ways, contemporary American culture continues to demonstrate the influence of the Puritan ideals of the American Dream, particularly in terms of the emphasis on hard work, individual initiative, and self-reliance (Winthrop, 1630). At the same time, the pursuit of pleasure and profits is also a prominent aspect of American culture, reflecting the reality of the American experience. One way in which the tension between these conflicting values has been reconciled is through a balancing act between individualism and community. Throughout American history, there have been periods where the focus on individualism has been stronger, and other periods where the focus on community has been stronger. For example, during World War II, there was a heightened emphasis on community and collective sacrifice for the greater good, while in recent decades, there has been a resurgence of individualism and a focus on individual rights and freedoms.
It is evident that the American Dream remains a powerful force in shaping American culture and values, influencing both personal and collective aspirations. Despite its changing meanings and interpretations over time, it continues to serve as a symbol of hope, opportunity, and upward mobility for people around the world. However, there are also criticisms of the American Dream that highlight the ways in which it can perpetuate inequality and privilege. The idea that success is attainable through hard work and determination is not equally accessible to all individuals, and factors such as race, class, gender, and access to resources play a significant role in determining who can achieve the American Dream. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge both the positive and negative aspects of the American Dream and to engage in ongoing discussions and debates about its meaning and implications. As the country continues to evolve and change, the American Dream will likely continue to adapt and evolve, reflecting the shifting values and aspirations of American society.
Reference
Winthrop, J. (1630). A Model of Christian Charity [Introduction by John Beardsley]. On board the Arbella.