American Ideals

On February 23rd 1945 this historic picture was taken which depicts 5 US soldiers raising the nations flag on top of Mount Suribachi, during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. This image undoubtedly became one of the most significant and distinct images of the war as it represented the allies war against tyranny, fight for democracy, team work, dedication, sacrifice, patriotism, all of which are ideals that created this country. Even though the war in Japan didn't end for another 7 months, many people saw this image as a symbol of inevitable triumph because no foreign power had ever planted their flag on Japanese soil. Therefore, the publication of this image also gave many people huge hope of the safe returns of their loved ones.

This image was published in Life Magazines February 1937 issue, World's Highest Standard of Living which became instantly relatable to American people all over the country. This was published at the peak of the Great Depression and therefore includes a blatant sense of irony with an idealised American family poster board next to a real, everyday and grim looking group of families who are clearly bereft of belongings or homes. The picture specifically shows a line of people who were homeless after the flooding of the Ohio River. In contrast to the first image this shows how even hard work and having the correct morality american life didn't stop people from suffering. Ultimately, the 'American Way' of life only accounted for a very select few at this time and it was more of a dream to think about whilst they were living in the nightmare. 

American Ideals - Graham

Here we see the face of Barack Obama super-imposed upon that of  'Uncle Sam'. The iconic image of modern America that President Obama now is, portrays the epitome of what the US can be. A charismatic, against all odds winner ,who despite his critics, strives to succeed and innovate even in the face of constant adversity.

Here we see a statement highlighting how the core fundamental values of the United States of America, however pure in intention, rely on material wealth and power. This has ironically culminated in a system of government that is apparently founded upon religious ideals, yet fails to provide healthcare and other means to the poor, has one of the world's highest incarceration rates for non-violent crimes and is stereo-typically seen as violent in many ways. 

American Ideals

In 1988 American pop star Michael Jackson bought and took up residence at a 3000 acre ranch in California which he named "Neverland" in reference to the fictional island from Peter Pan. Michael himself embodied the American Dream, famously going from humble working-class beginnings to becoming the so-called "king of pop". This picture shows the entrance to his home; a train station. The ranch was also a symbol of the American Dream, showing that any American can achieve their highest aspirations. 

This second photo is of Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley Ranch entrance over 25 years later. The ranch has now reverted to its original name of Sycamore Valley Ranch after a recent renovation. In late 2007 Jackson got into financial difficulties that saw him faced with a bill for nearly $25million to allow him to retain ownership of the ranch which he could not pay. Although some find their American Dream, it may not be long until it turns into their American Nightmare.

American Ideals Images 

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution states the freedom of speech as a constitutional right. This first image shows a protester proudly displaying a rainbow flag to celebrate the legalisation of same-sex marriage in June 2015, demonstrating the American constitutional ideals of equality and freedom. The changing of the law to make marrying the same sex was presented as a fundamental right. This is iconic of America as it demonstrates how America presents its people as proud to stand up for what they believe in. 

However, by September 2015 an Apostolic Christian was sent to prison in Kentucky for her stance in refusing to follow court orders to issue a marriage licence to a gay couple. As many as 12 counties in Alabama are not issuing marriage licences in a state where the law says judges "may" issue licenses. On the other hand in Oregon a county circuit court judge is facing an ethics review over his refusal to perform same-sex marriages. This demonstrates how America is not completely free to everyone and that equality is not the same to each person in every American state as there are still many campaigners against gay marriage even now it has been legalised. 

American Ideal Images

The first image clearly embodies the American ideals of diversity, opportunity and liberty. Arnold Schwarzenegger was born into poverty and famine in Austria, and dreamed of moving to the U.S since age 10. By age 21, he was living in L.A and had been crowned Mr. Universe. Today, age 68, Arnold Schwarzenegger is a household name, known for his acting, bodybuilding, and for becoming the 38th Governor of California. Schwarzenegger has been called "the most famous immigrant in America", and I believe that his life epitomizes the American Dream, as well as American ideals of liberty and opportunity.

The second image, however, seems to question whether traditional American ideals are still upheld in certain areas of modern America, particularly the likes of liberty, equality, and basic human rights. The recent unrest in Ferguson, over the shooting of black teenager, Michael Brown, by white police officer, Darren Wilson, had a massive online following, and one twitter user juxtaposed these pictures in order to show the lack of progression which America has made in response to racial tension and police brutality, in the last 50 years.

Find and post any TWO images which you judge are iconic of “America.” Choose one which affirms the connection between America and its ideals and one that questions it. Comment on your posts.

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