"I consent to this Constitution because I expect no better...and because I am not sure that it is not the best."
- Benjamin Franklin

The United States of America is the world's oldest enduring republic, created from a revolution that changed the way people thought and lived their lives. Our nation was conceived not by chance, but by choice. "Becoming American" was a choice.

Tragic events at the beginning of the 21st century have brought a renewed storm of patriotism, also a new and ongoing war. Throughout our history, however, America has survived attack from within and from without, because our strength lies in a system that is not perfect, but one that possesses the means to correct itself.

"America is a nation full of good fortune … But we are not spared from suffering. In every generation, the world has produced enemies of human freedom. They have attacked America, because we are freedom's home and defender. And the commitment of our fathers is now the calling of our time."
      President George W. Bush after September 11, 2001

The Revolution that the original rebels started back in the 18th century is still vital and viable today. "Being American" is still our choice.