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The American dream is not that every man must be level with every other man. The American dream is that every man must be free to become whatever God intends he should become.
Ronald Reagan
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The American dream emphasizes individual freedom and personal potential rather than equality among all people.

In this quote, Ronald Reagan articulates a vision of the American dream that prioritizes personal freedom and the unique potential of each individual. Unlike a demand for absolute equality, Reagan suggests that the essence of the American dream lies in the opportunity for every person to pursue their own destiny according to their abilities and aspirations, reflecting a belief in both divinely intended purpose and the importance of liberty in achieving one's goals.

Themes

American DreamFreedomPotentialIndividualityPersonal Growth

In practice

Example use cases

In a graduation speech to inspire students about their futures.

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Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
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Our status as a free society and world power is not based on brute strength. When we've taken up arms, it has been for the defense of freedom for ourselves and for other peaceful nations who needed our help. But now, faced with the development of weapons with immense destructive power, we've no choice but to maintain ready defense forces that are second to none. Yes, the cost is high, but the price of neglect would be infinitely higher.
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I'm spending more time at this library in four days than I did at the Eureka College Library in four years.
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I'm not a politician by profession. I am a citizen who decided I had to be personally involved in order to stand up for my own values and beliefs. My candidacy is based on my record, and for that matter, my entire life.
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My fellow citizens, our nation is poised for greatness. We must do what we know is right, and do it with all our might. Let history say of us: "These were golden years - when the American Revolution was reborn, when freedom gained new life, and America reached for her best."
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We must have faith in the people of this country and faith in our principles.
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