Why do Europeans in America say they're American?

Question

I am not American. I'm irish. I was born here, and so were my parents and grandparents, but I'm not American. the only true Americans are Native Americans. My loyalty is to Ireland, and to Ireland only. I don't hate America, or have any plans on joining an American hater group, but why would I want to consider myself a citizen of the biggest polluter, most obese, and one of the most violent coutries in the world? America has no history at all compared to Ireland, or any other country. I would never, ever serve in any war America was involved in, because what am I fighting for? I would die for a country I'm not even sure why I live in. I would fly to Ireland right away, and defend Ireland, however, if they were attacked, but that is unlikely to happen, as Ireland is a neutral country.

Answer 1

It is so awesome you are in touch with your heritage. There are so many American people who do not get in touch with their heritage. It feels good, huh? And thanx for being sensitve to Native people. That is great as well. It is easy to be sensitive to others when one has their own culture and history. Great points!

Answer 2

I was born here. I may have ancestors that came from Europe, but I am not culturally any of those... I could not expect to just up and fit in with people there who's culture and ways I was not raised in. Likewise, I may be partially Native American, but I'm not culturally that either. I'm "culturally" American because it is what I was born into and what shaped my growth into who I am today. What shapes you is more about who you are then just where your DNA comes from.

And btw I think most "Native Americans" would rather be called by their own Nation/tribe name. They did not pick that title, and they did not name this land America, other people did.

Answer 3

I am American. My ancestors lived here or decided to move here a long time ago. You are of Irish descent (probably other countries too), but you aren't Irish if you or your parents aren't from Ireland. According to your logic, I'm a Native American Spanish Irish English German? Please! I'm an American.

Answer 4

I would think anyone has the power to consider him/herself a member of any clan, tribe, ethnic, or racial group they desire. They are all just groups. These groups are usually cohesive and protect itself from all outside aggressors. Now, I am an African American, whose ancestors were ripped from "Mother Africa" and forcibly transported throughout the western world to provide free slave labor for nearly 400 years. Since then, I have been consistently under attack by "racist" Americans. Now, in consideration of that, do you think that I believe I am am "American", or African?

Answer 5

So why not just go there now?