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America Quote by James Truslow Adams

“The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement. It is a difficult dream for the European upper classes to interpret adequately, and too many of us ourselves have grown weary…” quote by James Truslow Adams
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““The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement. It is a difficult dream for the European upper classes to interpret adequately, and too many of us ourselves have grown weary and mistrustful of it. It is not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position.””

James Truslow Adams

About This Quote

Source Book: The Epic of America, James Truslow Adams, 1931

The American Dream envisions equal opportunity for all to reach their fullest potential, beyond material wealth.

In simple terms: A fair chance for everyone to achieve their best.

Key Takeaway

Promote equal opportunity for all.

Themes

equality opportunity social justice

Mood

inspirational reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • education reform
  • employment policies
  • community programs
  • legislative action

Key Concepts

American Dream meritocracy social mobility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can society reduce barriers to opportunity?
  • What does the Dream mean for you personally?
A Different Perspective

Achieving true equality is hindered by systemic barriers.

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