The idea of being American has most definitely changed over time. In the early history of the United States, African-American slaves weren’t even considered to be a full person -- let alone an American citizen. In the same time frame, racism and sexism were running rampant. The three rights guaranteed to U.S. citizens -- life, liberty, and property -- were only given to the select few: white males. Over the years the definition of an “American” has been expanded from the white male to essentially every person who sets foot on our soil and contributes to our society. Being American is something no longer defined by race, religion, or language. Now it is characterized by the sense of belonging felt by the people, whether it be someone born in