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American dream Quote by Bob Dole

“A family from Mexico who arrived here this morning, legally, has as much right to the American dream as the direct descendants of the founding fathers. ... when the blood of the sons of immigrants and the grandsons of slaves fell on foreign fields, it was American blood. In it you could not read…” quote by Bob Dole
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“A family from Mexico who arrived here this morning, legally, has as much right to the American dream as the direct descendants of the founding fathers. ... when the blood of the sons of immigrants and the grandsons of slaves fell on foreign fields, it was American blood. In it you could not read the ethnic particulars of the soldier who died next to you. He was an American. And when I think of how we learned this lesson, I wonder [how] we could have unlearned it.”

Bob Dole

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Immigration and the American Dream, 1990

The quote asserts that all people, regardless of origin, share equal entitlement to the American Dream, emphasizing shared humanity and the common sacrifice of immigrants and descendants of slaves.

In simple terms: Everyone deserves the American Dream, no matter their background.

Key Takeaway

Recognize equal rights to opportunity for all.

Themes

equality immigration American Dream shared sacrifice identity

Mood

inspirational serious empathetic

Type

political social educational

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • educational curricula
  • community outreach
  • personal narratives

Key Concepts

civil rights national identity historical memory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can policies reflect this ideal of equality?
  • What actions can individuals take to support immigrant rights?
A Different Perspective

The statement may overlook systemic barriers that still affect marginalized groups.

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