How the American Dream has survived 250 years, but only just
Summary
The article discusses how the American Dream, the idea that anyone in the U.S. can build a better life, is being questioned as the country turns 250 years old. It shares stories of people like Abdi Nor Iftin, a Somali immigrant, and others who feel the dream is becoming harder to achieve due to economic and social challenges.Key Facts
- Abdi Nor Iftin, a Somali refugee, moved to the U.S. in 2013 through the diversity visa program and became a U.S. citizen.
- Abdi recently lost his job and health insurance, which made him feel the American Dream is "alive, but not well."
- A 24-year-old actor from California plans to move to Canada due to fewer job opportunities in the U.S. film industry.
- Surveys show only about one-third of Americans believe the American Dream still exists.
- Many Americans think the country's best days are behind it, according to Pew Research Center.
- The American Dream began after the U.S. founding and was popularized in a 1931 book as a goal of social order and opportunity, not just wealth.
- Historically, the dream did not include everyone, such as Native Americans, slaves, or women.
- Today, the American Dream is tied to ideas like entrepreneurship, moving up in society, and economic opportunity.
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