American Dream Notes

University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
FIN 430 | International Financial Management
Academic year:

2023
Views:

0

Pages:

1
Author:

customer-7973539

History of the American Dream ● Origins and Definition: ○ Coined by James Truslow Adams in 1931, the American Dream emphasizes the idea that "life should be better and richer for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement." ○ Rooted in ideals of freedom, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. ● Early Foundations: ○ Colonial America: The pursuit of religious freedom and economic opportunity. ○ Westward Expansion: Land as a symbol of opportunity and self-determination. ○ Industrial Revolution: Shift from agrarian independence to urban prosperity. ● Evolution Over Time: ○ Post-WWII Boom: Economic stability, suburban growth, and middle-class expansion. ○ Civil Rights Movement: The push to extend the dream to marginalized communities. ○ Late 20th Century: Challenges like deindustrialization, wage stagnation, and growing wealth disparity. Cultural Significance of the American Dream ● Immigration and Opportunity: ○ America as a "land of opportunity" has attracted immigrants seeking better lives for centuries. ○ Stories of hard work and success, such as Andrew Carnegie and Oprah Winfrey, embody the dream. ● Media and Pop Culture: ○ Movies, music, and literature often highlight themes of success, self-made wealth, and overcoming obstacles “The Great Gatsby and Pursuit of Happiness”. ● Symbols of the Dream: ○ Homeownership, education, entrepreneurship, and upward mobility.