What does it mean to be American? Does it mean patriotism? Is it the feeling of pride when you sing the national anthem? To be clear, there are many things that make a true American. They can be any race, any color, speak any language, come from a different family background, it doesn't matter because these are not what define a true American. No matter what the circumstances, it's what's in the heart that makes an American. But what follows are some things that make up a true American. Have loyalty to your country, exercise your rights (freedoms), own many weapons. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Every country must require sincere subjects to be a functional and safe country, although no country is ever safe, it helps keep skyrocketing crime rates to a minimum. These loyal citizens can be loyal by simply contributing what they can to their community, whether it's the smallest things like recycling or paying taxes and making sure they keep their surroundings tidy. Some of these people take their loyalty to the next level and join the army and fight with the fiery spirit and loyalty of their country. Another example of loyalty is to NOT kneel during the national anthem – stand tall and proud and sing your heart out with every ounce of pride you contain. However, every effort you make comes as a reward, like your freedom. Furthermore, freedom is another aspect that builds an American. Exercise these freedoms and your rights, if you have a topic you don't agree with, then protest, sign petitions. No one, not even the authorities, can stop you unless you break the law. If you don't know what rights you can exercise, then... How can you be an American? Especially if you don't know what the Bill of Rights is or what the amendments are. Express your opinion and make a change for the better by using the rights you have. Unless it's insulting someone, keep it to yourself, it's rude and inappropriate. Also, one final reason from my perspective for what makes a "TRUE AMERICAN" is owning a gun. You can't be a true American without a trusty weapon exercising the Second Amendment, if you know what I mean. Take advantage of the right to bear arms because 42% of the American population owns guns, which means that 393 million guns are distributed among 50 million families. As one anonymous individual once stated, “You are not a real American if you don't own a gun.” Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, any real American would have these internal traits in the past. Whether it's showing unfailing patriotism, exercising your rights and freedoms, and owning a gun like a true American. But what really matters is having American citizenship, no one is a real American without citizenship, otherwise if your visa expires you better hope not to get caught. He also eats a lot of cheeseburgers because it's one of the most American things you could do. Ultimately the theme is that an American is defined predominantly by heart and sometimes by physical and behavioral traits.