Response to Crevecour

America was the land of opportunity for many immigrants in the eighteenth-hundreds, and it still is for many today. European immigrants came to America for freedom and a better life. They wanted food, shelter, and to be rewarded for their hard labor so they can raise a family. The same goes to immigrants today. They want a better life for themselves as well as their kids, so the immigrants from both times basically had the same goal.

Crevecour's definition of an American is a man who leaves behind "all his ancient prejudices and manners, receives new ones from the new mode of life he has embraced, the new government he obeys and the new rank he holds". He believes that an American is greatly received in this new land and that these new people have great knowledge of art, sciences, vigor, and industry to change the world for the better. Today, I believe that his definition is partially true. Most of the immigrants coming to the United States do not want to leave their ancient manners behind them. Instead, many try to preserve them and teach them to their children, along with the new ones from their new lifestyle. Also, immigrants don't receive a very warm welcome anymore, instead being criticized. Besides this, I agree with the rest. Most Immigrants embrace their new life, and are prepared to learn so they can have many opportunities to change the country and world for the better.

I don't believe that there can be a single definition of an American because all people are different. Some people may not want to leave their "ancient manners" behind them, while others are more committed to their country and well being than others (Some go off to college and make a great impact in their country while others are homeless and in debt). Crevecour's definition is almost completely true, but it's not the same for everybody.

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