"What is an American?" is a question posed by French writer J. Hector St. John de Crèvecœur in his letter "Letters from an American Farmer." In this letter, Crèvecœur reflects on the concept of American identity and what it means to be an American.
Crèvecœur begins by describing the diversity of the American population, noting that it is made up of people from various European countries, as well as African slaves and Native Americans. He asserts that this diversity is what makes America unique, as it allows for the blending of different cultures and traditions.
Despite this diversity, Crèvecœur argues that there is a common thread that ties all Americans together. He asserts that the experience of living in America and being exposed to its vast wilderness and abundant resources has created a sense of unity among its inhabitants. He writes, "Here individuals of all nations are melted into a new race of men, whose labours and posterity will one day cause great changes in the world."
Crèvecœur also emphasizes the importance of the American Revolution in shaping American identity. He sees the Revolution as a defining moment in American history, one that allowed for the creation of a new, independent nation with its own unique identity. He writes, "It is this which has given to America that new character which distinguishes her from all the nations of the earth."
Ultimately, Crèvecœur concludes that being an American means being part of a nation that is defined by its diversity, its sense of unity, and its commitment to independence and freedom. He writes, "Here then is the origin of an American, a new man, who acts upon new principles; he must therefore entertain new ideas and form new opinions."
In summary, "What is an American?" is a letter written by J. Hector St. John de Crèvecœur that explores the concept of American identity and what it means to be an American. Crèvecœur argues that the diversity of the American population, the shared experience of living in America, and the impact of the American Revolution all contribute to the unique identity of the nation and its people.
