The American Dream: A Fresh Look At An Enduring Promise

Despite the articles and videos you might find online, discover why The American Dream is not dead.

This is an article in our three part series: The American Dream

I was recently helping my 8th grader with a school project on The American Dream. It asked him to answer the following three questions: What is The American Dream? What does the American Dream mean to you? Does the American Dream still exist? As we researched online, I was surprised to see so many doom and gloom videos on Youtube saying The American Dream is dead or impossible to achieve.

From my vantage point of a small-town outside of a major city in North Carolina, I can definitely say The American Dream is not dead. The Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina, often called The Triangle in particular is filled with successful Indians, East Asians and Africans from all regions of their continent, who mostly work in software and the pharmaceutical industries. New neighborhoods of million dollar homes with even newer schools are constantly sprouting up for these transplants to the area. I see nothing but success stories about The American Dream.

And when I shop local, eat out at mom and pop restaurants or go to local farmer’s markets, I am met with a culturally diverse selection of products and services by business owners new to the country. One of my favorite restaurants in Holly Springs, NC Lovegrass Kitchen is Ethiopian-owned. One of my favorite dessert cafes in Apex, NC Asali’s is Palestinian-owned. A family favorite ice cream shop in Cary, NC is Vida Dulce – Mexican-owned. A new favorite coffee shop, the Turkish Coffee Lady is… wait for it – Turkish-owned… My repairman owns his own business and is from Eritrea. I could go on…

As the mother of children whose father and grandparents all immigrated to America from Poland and 100% achieved The American Dream, I can attest to the fact that it is live and well, and available to anyone who has a dream and is prepared to work hard to achieve it.

Despite living through the Jim Crow South and segregation as black Americans, my parents went on to achieve The American Dream. And building on their sacrifices and achievements… so have I and my siblings.

So again, very surprised to see so many videos and animated shorts saying differently. This experience has prompted me to write a series of articles on The American Dream, especially for students like my son who are on the internet searching for information and want a more realistic view of the situation.

So first, a definition.

What Is the American Dream?

At its core, The American Dream is about the pursuit of a better life. Coined in 1931 by historian James Truslow Adams, the term described “a dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone.” It was a call to action, a promise that through hard work and determination, anyone could rise above their circumstances.

For decades, The American Dream was tied to tangible milestones: owning a home, climbing the corporate ladder, and providing a brighter future for the next generation. Immigrants flocked to the U.S. with hopes of freedom and opportunity, while Americans sought to secure their place in a booming post-war economy.

But as society has evolved, so too has the dream. Today, it’s less about wealth and status and more about creating a meaningful life—one filled with connection and balance.

A Brief History Of The American Dream

The American Dream’s roots run deep in the nation’s history:

The Early Days: In the 18th and 19th centuries, the dream was tied to land ownership and self-sufficiency. Immigrants sought a fresh start, while pioneers moved westward in search of opportunity.
The Industrial Revolution: The dream shifted to economic prosperity, with factory jobs and urban living becoming the norm.
Post-War Prosperity: After World War II, suburban living became synonymous with the dream. White picket fences, steady jobs, and nuclear families defined success.
Modern Shifts: Economic challenges, cultural changes, and a growing focus on mental health have redefined the dream for many Americans.

Why You Should Teach Citizenship To Your Kids

The Immigrant Connection: By the Numbers

Immigrants have always been a driving force behind The American Dream. Their stories of resilience and success are woven into the fabric of the nation:

Immigrants make up 14% of the U.S. population, or roughly 46.6 million people.
45% of Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit.
Immigrant-owned businesses account for 1 in 5 entrepreneurs, contributing significantly to local economies.
Homeownership among immigrants continues to rise, with 55% of immigrant families owning homes, a key marker of achieving The American Dream.

The New American Dream: Balance & Simplicity

The American Dream is no longer just about new opportunities or “making it big.” Don’t forget, The American Dream is not just for immigrants, it’s for Americans too. And many Americans want to find life-work balance, slow down, savor life’s small pleasures, and find fulfillment in everyday moments.

1. Side Hustles and Homegrown Businesses
A growing number of Americans are turning hobbies into careers, proving that the dream can start at home. Nearly 70% of new businesses in the U.S. are started from home, fueled by passions like crafting, baking, writing, and consulting. Side hustles, from Etsy shops to freelance work, have become full-time careers, allowing people to work on their own terms.

2. Back-to-Nature Living
The dream is also shifting toward sustainability and self-sufficiency. Many families are reconnecting with the land by growing their own food, raising chickens, and embracing a simpler way of life. Urban homesteading, backyard gardens, and farmers’ markets are on the rise, symbolizing a return to nature and a focus on health and community.

Why You Should Teach Your Kids To Think For Themselves

The Resilience Of The American Dream

Despite economic challenges and political debates, The American Dream is far from dead. In fact, it’s thriving in new and unexpected ways:

84% of Americans still believe in the dream, though their definition has evolved.
Immigrants continue to achieve success, starting businesses, buying homes, and contributing to their communities.
Americans across all demographics are finding creative ways to achieve their goals, whether through entrepreneurship, sustainable living, or prioritizing family and health.

I’m not saying that America is perfect, or that following The American Dream or any dream for that matter is easy… But the numbers don’t lie: The American Dream is alive and well. It may look different than it did in the past, but its essence remains the same—a pursuit of happiness, fulfillment, and a better life for future generations.

The American Dream is no longer a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s a deeply personal journey, shaped by individual values, passions, and goals. Whether it’s immigrating from another country to America for more opportunity, starting a home-based business, or embracing a back-to-nature lifestyle the dream is alive and thriving in countless forms.

The American Dream

Published: March 5, 2025