Mark Stroman The True American

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The novel The True American written by Anand Giridharadas tells the story of two men who are from completely different sides of the world doing what they believe are the actions of a “True American”. One of the men was named Mark Stroman. Stroman was an American born grass rooted conservative that lived in Texas. Stroman viewed America as a strong patriotic country that was thriving and needed no help in being successful from immigrants. After the terrorist attack on the twin towers on September 11th 2001 Mark felt that it was his duty as an American to seek revenge for his country. As soon as Stroman heard of the attack on the towers he was outraged and “felt hate and anger to an unknown force” (49). Stroman embraced his patriotism and felt …show more content…

Raisuddin like the appreciative immigrant he was worked hard and got a job at a Dallas convenient store. This was where he was shot by Stroman and sent to the hospital. Raissudin survived however he had over 60,000 dollars worth of medical bills and a changed view of the America he was living in. At first Raisuddin was angry and couldn't understand how the country he had been so loyal to would punish him with the medical bills which he didn't deserve. Time passed, Stroman was sentenced to death row for the murder of another immigrant and Raisuddin was motivitaed to do something not even the “Truest American” like Stroman would do. He forgave the man that shot him and began to fight for the annulment of his death sentence. Because Raisuddin forgave Stroman, Stromans views of a “True American” dramatically changed by the end of the novel. Right before his execution Stroman says, “I am at total peace. Hate is going on in this world and it has to stop... I am at total peace. I'm still a proud American-Texas loud, Texas proud. God bless America”(253). At the beginning of the novel Stromans and Raisuddins views couldn't have been more different but by the end of the novel they both knew and shared a common view on what a “True American”