History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 4

History - Essay Example Pappas (1) in his article supported this claim where he mentioned that Americans tend to be calm, sensible and comforting. Such virtues were emulated in them in the midst of disasters. Just like any country, America had many difficulties too but what made them great and were able to stand is their composure and sensible actions. Although, they have diverse religion, Americans had lived up the virtues that are Godly guided since doing so is believed to contribute to the true essence of happiness leading to a better life (Slack, 454). On the other hand, concern for the others is also evident in charity works maintained by Jane Addams in her time and had been adopted by significant figures in the political arena where they find ways to make themselves mutually supporting. The act of giving is also expressed among the ordinary citizens as part of their family or personal life. Charity services were also extended outside the country making America known for its support worldwide. Along th is line, virtue to them likewise connotes power. For this reason, most elected politicians had included in their programs the goal to make the life of people better in times of economic insecurity. Politicians who do not support economic and social flourishing generally lost in elections as they are not popular without such agenda in their program. Not only virtue is concern for self awareness, self development, and duty for others to the Americans, but it also means respect for human rights. Human rights in America have expanded where freedom is acquired and secured for them to live a life suited for the changing times. However, to them rights are useless if they are trampled upon by others, denied by the powerful few, and misused by the individuals. With this, they seek to know themselves better and not just to accept themselves as what they are or what the society think of them. For virtue to be put to use, Americans have to exercise their own judgment from within and not to be d ictated by the rules from the books. They do not believe that the handed rules to live one’s life could make them live a good life but rather consider rights as an intermediary to allow them to live their life well. To sum up, America is a nation who respects the individual and believes in liberty rather than to be dictated (Gary, 527). Added to what was mentioned, virtue is tolerance and appreciation for diverse lifestyle. Thus, they are open to accept individuals from any country to enter their territory as immigrants as long as they meet the qualifications stipulated in their requirement. Unlike other countries, Americans are tolerant to any religion an immigrant may bring in and so with their culture. As such, they are open- minded to give value to varied contributions in these aspects from other people to guide them in their lives and in an effort to reform society. In this aspect, Americans give a high regard to perseverance even in the face of adversities. To ensure th at American citizens and their leaders possessed virtue, they reject dishonest people. This is reflected in the action of the government in terminating the services of government officials and sanctioning those who misuse their power to accept bribe in exchange of approving or tolerating illicit activities. Such action shows their rejection of corruption