Final answer:
The American Dream is a set of ideals promising prosperity and upward mobility through hard work and opportunity, a concept historically rooted in the United States and still influencing the aspirations and motivations of its people today.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Dream is a national ethos of the United States rooted in the belief that freedom includes the opportunity for prosperity, success, and an upward social mobility achievable through hard work. First defined by James Truslow Adams in 1931, the concept embodies the idea that life should be 'better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement,' regardless of the social class or the circumstances of birth.
The American Dream unifies the diverse immigrants who have built the American society through shared aspirations for success and upward economic mobility by adhering to common ideals and by applying oneself diligently to their endeavors. Despite current challenges, such as the 2008 recession which increased unemployment and created economic instability, many sectors of the economy are now hiring, and unemployment rates have diminished. This renews hope in the American Dream as a concept that continues to motivate people towards success.
However, the reality of achieving the American Dream has always been complex and requires not just hard work but also opportunity, good education, and sometimes a favorable economic climate. The current generation holds the future of the American Dream and must navigate evolving cultural and economic landscapes to maintain this ideal for themselves and their families.