What is the definition of an American? Being American does not mean being a part of a specific race or religion. Although being born in the United States or taking the citizenship test and passing it does make you an American physically, but does it give you the American mentality? Regardless of the language and ethnic diversity that has thrived in America, it is the mutual principle of freedom, equality, and the aspiration of prosperity that makes a true American. The people of the United States symbolizes a multitude of ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. All of these different backgrounds are a little piece of the several parts that make up the intricate meaning of what a true American is. Forty-two million people in the U.S.