Inspirational Quotes

Since the concept of the American Dream was conceived, many thinkers, leaders, and visionaries have reflected on what it means or can mean for the American people. Here is a small compilation of American Dream quotes from American figures, both historical and current. Just like stories, inspirational thoughts can quickly reach into us and give us a quick dose of enlightenment and encouragement.

“The opportunities that America offered made the dream real, at least for a good many; but the dream itself was in large part the product of millions of plain people beginning a new life in the conviction that life could indeed be better, and each new wave of immigration rekindled that dream.”—John F. Kennedy, US president

“As a kid who grew up in a single-parent household, mired in poverty, I wondered, Was the American Dream real for kids who are devastated by poverty? Devastated by the challenges of life? I came to the conclusion that America can do for anyone what she’s done for me.”—Tim Scott, US senator

“I used to think the American Dream could be obtained through the accumulation of possessions, positions and prestige. The ‘truths self-evident’ to our founding fathers eluded me for too long. ‘Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness’ is so much more than fulfilling our own dreams, doing what we want and feeling good. It’s about using our God-given potential to make a positive difference on this planet.”—Chuck Norris, actor and martial artist

“At the root of everything that we’re trying to accomplish is the belief that America has a mission. We are a nation of freedom, living under God, believing all citizens must have the opportunity to grow, create wealth, and build a better life for those who follow. If we live up to those moral values, we can keep the American dream alive for our children and our grandchildren, and America will remain mankind’s best hope.”—Ronald Reagan, US president

“To me, the American Dream is being able to follow your own personal calling. To be able to do what you want to do is incredible freedom.”—Maya Lin

“The American dream. Those three short, simple words encompass the hopes and aspirations of all the peoples on earth.”—Ross Perot

“The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement.”—James Truslow Adams, author of The Epic of America

“You see, without hard work and responsibility, there is no American Dream. Hard work lays the foundation. Our solidarity makes work pay, for all of us. For the greater good. That’s what our vision of shared prosperity is all about.”—Richard Trumka, president of the AFL–CIO

“I believe in the American Dream because I have lived the American Dream.” —Carl Paladino

“The American dream does not come to those who fall asleep.”—Gerald R. Ford

“The promise of the American Dream requires that we are all provided an equal opportunity to participate in and contribute to our nation.” —Charles B. Rangel

“I define the American dream as the ability to imagine a way that you want your life to turn out, and have a reasonable hope that you can achieve that. —David Henry Hwang

“The American dream belongs to all of us.” —Kamala Harris

“I believe in the American Dream because I have lived the American Dream.” —Carl Paladino

“And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.” —Martin Luther King, Jr.

“I am the American Dream. I am the epitome of what the American Dream basically said. It said, you could come from anywhere and be anything you want in this country. That’s exactly what I’ve done.” —Whoopie Goldberg

“The American Dream I believe in provides anyone willing to work hard enough with the opportunity to succeed.” —Tammy Duckworth

“The road to success is not easy to navigate, but with hard work, drive, and passion, it’s possible to achieve the American dream. —Tommy Hilfiger

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We believe that the American Dream is not an individual pursuit but a collective endeavor. We invite you to submit your own American Dream story to inspire others and be a part of our growing collection of narratives. Your involvement is essential in creating a supportive and inclusive community that believes in the power of dreams and celebrating success together.

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