Section 1 | Becomingamerica

Section 1: The American Dream

Is the American Dream linked to the Declaration of Independence?

Part One, on this page, asks you to reflect on the American Dream and the values you think this embodies as you begin this course.

Part Two, below, is an initial reading of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting interesting phrasing and ideas, including any connection between those phrases and the American Dream.

Part Three, at the end of this page, digs into key ideas of the document.

After becoming more familiar with the Declaration, the Section 2 page will go back to look at the historical foundations leading up to the time of American Independence.

Part One: What is your definition of the American Dream?

Choose one (or more) of the photos below, and explain how this relates to what you see as The American Dream. Next, reflect on how would you define the American Dream? Take 10 minutes to write a response in paragraph or bullet form.

Part Two: The Declaration of Independence - Initial Reading & Reaction

Read the Declaration of Independence on the National Archives website by clicking here. Take note of anything that jumps out at you that seems interesting, significant, and/or puzzling. Then, briefly explain why three to five of the parts you noted stood out.

Part Three: The Declaration - Digging into Key Ideas

The Declaration of Independence is worth reading many times. This time we will consider some of the terms and phrases that you will hear as we learn about the early Colonies that later became the United States of America, look up the meaning of each term, and consider the source you are using. Look for the original meaning of the term. Word usage and definitions change over time so consider searching dictionaries published at the time of the writing of the Declaration. (One such source is noted on the additional resources at the end of Section 4.) Then describe the term in your own words.

Natural Law
Self-evident truths
Natural Rights
Pursuit of Happiness
Limited government
Religious liberty

Define and discuss at least three of the following important concepts. Try to link the concept to the idea of the American Dream.

All men are created equal
Laws of Nature
Nature’s God
Unalienable rights
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
Consent of the governed
Private Property
Equality versus Liberty