American Myths And Stereotypes

It is not possible to answer this question explicitly but it seems that some American characteristics are a legacy of the Puritan ideology. The Puritans thought of themselves as a special people able to build ‘a city upon a hill’. They considered their success and increasing prosperity a sign of God’s grace and did not respect those who failed. They promoted hard work, self-reliance and believed in man’s unlimited ability to make progress. Even today their ideas are still popular. The special significance of succeeding in life has come to characterize the American culture ever since.

American children are taught that drive, initiative and activity are the essence of life. It is believed that passivity warps the mind and that is why it is not accepted. Generally Americans are characterized by a very practical sense and optimism. They never give up and even if they have problems, they are always trying to find some solution. Their recipe is simple: You have no money? No job? Don’t wait! Do something! Be flexible! There is always a way out! Take a course in gardening, cooking, ceramics, embroidering, typing… promote yourself! You must find some way to achieve success! If you don’t, you are a muff and a crock.


Americans are often surprised when other question their achievements, values or even their way of life. They are convinced that they are a unique nation which invented almost everything from the telephone to the artificial heart, and created the best of all possible worlds. True or not, they are proud of themselves and their country.

By: Sharon White

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The article was produced by the writer of masterpapers. Sharon White is a 5-years experienced freelance writer and a senior manager of dissertation writing services support team. Contact her to get custom term paper tips and buy dissertations.

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