i have to write an essay on "the american spirit" any ideas?

Answer 1

I would say the American Spirit always looks to improving the future. That is way we have such great inventors. Other cultures look to preserving the past or holding grudges from the past and that is why they can't move forward.
Research some inventors for more info.

Answer 2

I guess you are talking ideals rather than reality, so you better not include Chomsky in your essay.

The ideals of America are admirable. Bill of Rights, equality of man and races. "Ask not what you country can do for you, ask what can you do for your country." "Bring us your poor and huddled masses" (Sorry if the quotes are not quite right, I am a foreigner).

America prides itself to accept anybody with ability and to give them to opportunity to prove and better themselves. It maybe an idea to reflect that much of the bitterness provoked by America nowadays is because there is still such a large gap between the noble ideas and the not-so-noble reality.

Answer 3

Why not talk about a military story? Do some research about a military battle or George Washington crossing into the wilderness when he and his soldiers came from England to form this nation?

Answer 4

I would write an paper on how its portrayed in popular culture - you could use example of superhero characters like Captain America http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captain_America, Paul Bunyan http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Bunyan, Uncle Sam http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncle_Sam, John Henry http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Henry_%28folklore%29, and of course the ultimate immigrant Superman http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superman. I think this would be rather unique but interesting as well.

Good Luck!!!