Justin Mitchell

Professor Lynn Raymond

University Writing 1103
October 4, 2015
Proud to be an American (Writing Prompt 6)
Born and raised in the USA, I feel privileged to have grown up where I have. Americans
have a great sense of patriotic pride about themselves, and theres plenty of symbolism tied
around this thought. A big influence is the countrys flag and the national colors of red, white,
and blue. The nations flag has changed throughout this countrys history. From 1775 up until
1960 (ushistory.com), the flag had continued to change its appearance with the addition of new
states. Currently, the flag has 50 stars on it representing the states, and 13 stripes for the original
thirteen colonies. It was also very controversial during the times when the nation was fighting
for its independence. Around this time is when the national anthem was written. The Star
Spangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key. Even through tough times, the flag has
proven to be strong and withstand the test of time.
Since I was born here, I am automatically a U.S citizen. Citizenship in the U.S is a big
step in some peoples life. The process is easy for some and difficult for others; one main
component being that you must pass a test on some of the United States history. This is called a
naturalization test. Knowing your history is a large part of being American as well. I think that is
important to know about your countrys foundation. People like George Washington, Abraham
Lincoln, Ben Franklin, Martin Luther King Jr., Bill Gates, and Jackie Robinson have large places
in American history.

Works Cited
"The 100 Most Influential Figures in American History." The Atlantic Magazine, n.d. Web. 8
Oct. 2015. <http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2006/12/the-100-most-influentialfigures-in-american-history/305384/>.
"The 100 Most Influential Figures in American History." The Atlantic Magazine, n.d. Web. 8
Oct. 2015. <http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2006/12/the-100-most-influentialfigures-in-american-history/305384/>.