How come when you ask an American what nationality they are they rarely say American?

Question

People are always saying Irish, or Chinese, or Italian, or German. Well my parents were both born in the US (not my grandparents though), and I always say American. Peope usually laugh at me, but I have never lived in another country. Why is this?

griesel---yeah there is such thing as an american.

Answer 1

Because no one here is really native to this land, other than the true Native Americans. I answer, Canadian - but I can break it down even more than that. Many people have parents that are from the 'old country'. I think these questions are asked to learn more about where someone's last name comes from, but more so, just a friendly and non-intrusive way to carry on a conversation.

Oh and on a side note, thanks for your best answer rating - I find you all over the place 'out here' perhaps you could write to me?

Answer 2

BECAUSE THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN AMERICAN. Everyone is an American. This country was made by immigrants from all over the world. eVERYONE, EVERY NATIONALITY has contributed to what America is. That is the beauty of this country that you are an American no matter what, but your roots are somewhere else. jUST BECAUSE YOU ARE BORN IN ONE PLACE DOES NOT MEAN THAT THAT IS WHAT YOU ARE.

Answer 3

If you're in America when you ask the question, the American part of heritage seems irrelevant.

Answer 4

Because when people ask you what ethnicity you are they are asking about your heritage, and not where you live now. They know you live in America.

Answer 5

I'm always wondering what i should answer too.so i tell them that i was born here and then tell them my originality.

Answer 6

because many people do not like america nad many are ashamed of wht this country has done.