America Quote by Doris Kearns Goodwin
“I think that's still what the American Dream means: that with perseverance, with hard work, you can become something, that the classes won't prevent you from becoming, that there's a movement up that ladder with hard work.”
About This Quote
The American Dream is portrayed as a meritocratic ladder where perseverance and hard work enable upward mobility regardless of class background.
In simple terms: Hard work can lift you above class constraints.
Key Takeaway
Effort can overcome socioeconomic barriers.
Themes
American Dream
social mobility
meritocracy
hard work
Mood
optimistic
reflective
Type
motivational
sociopolitical
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- immigrant success stories
- education scholarships
Key Concepts
class dynamics
self-determination
Practical Applications
- Set clear, incremental goals
- Seek mentorship in desired fields
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hard work intersect with structural barriers?
- Can meritocracy be truly fair?
A Different Perspective
Systemic inequality often limits true meritocratic outcomes despite effort.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
