What is an American?

I think an American is anyone who identifies themselves as an American. Our culture is too diverse to say it is any one thing. There are many shades, beliefs, ideas, affiliations, and so on. Our culture is distinct, but not everyone participates in it. For instance, you could call us a fast food culture. A lot of Americans eat fast food, but not every one does. So does an American have to eat fast food? No. Also, you don't have to love everything about this country. I, for one, am not always a fan of fast food or the way our government is ran. Does that make me less American? No.

I think the typical picture of an American is painted as middle class and white. That's what you mainly see in the media and Norman Rockwell paintings, but that's not what it is. It's not one demographic.

I don't think you have to be born in America to be American. A lot of people come here from other places and bring their culture with them, and then blend it in with American culture. That's what makes America, America. There are European, Asian, Latin, and African traditions all mixed up in this country.

Furthermore, I think many Americans are a little ethnocentric. Why else would we refer to ourselves as Americans when we are one section of two continents with the name America in them? We can get a little blown up about our culture and how great our country is. There is no doubt I am grateful to have many privileges living in this country that others do not enjoy, but does that make us better than anyone else? I don't think it does. That attitudes leads to situations that we are currently involved in this world.

So in conclusion, I think "American" is too broad of a label to say it is any one thing. I think it is relative. If you think you're an American then call yourself an American. If you live within the United States of America then you're probably an American.