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ENG 101 - American Dream

This guide provides a starting point for research on the American Dream.

2. Explore Your Topic

After thoroughly examining your assignment, now it's time to look for some initial background research on your topic.  View the topic page below in the Credo Database to learn more about the American Dream.

Define the American Dream

Magnifying Glass

There are many definitions of the American Dream. Your research will be more efficient if you know which "American Dream" you're writing about. Also, defining the American Dream should be one of the first things you do when writing your paper. Here are a few possible definitions of the American Dream to consider:

  • economic success
  • social mobility
  • the ideal 1950s-type family
  • home ownership
  • freedom (speech, religion, etc.)
  • striking it rich (in a gold mine or a game show)
  • working hard to provide a better life for you and/or your children.