At times this year, we have questioned the policies of America throughout its short history.  As important as it is to see two sides to every story, it is also important to be thankful for what you have.  Cynics can find a wealth of complaints in any society, America included.  However, should a country be judged on how well it measures against perfection?  For example, you could all agree that it would be unfair to judge an 8th grader's basketball skills based on how he could compete against Michael Jordan.  Likewise, America's success as a country should not be based on how well it compares to a utopia.

So...here is your assignment.  I want you to discuss an aspect of US history, in which an American citizen would show intense pride.  You can use an event/issue/policy from any point in American history or from current events.  You will be graded on the following:

I. Clear topic sentence (must include the words pride/proud and introduce your chosen topic)
II. Brief summary of your topic
III. Why you feel Americans should be proud of the event
IV. Opposite action or non-action of another country which shows a path America could have chosen, but refused (be sure you can find this component)
V. Summary statement of your feelings

Here are some rules:

I. Do not use the word "I".  You wrote the paper.  It can be assumed all of these statements are your beliefs.
II. Do not write more than 8 sentences.  Be concise.  You will lose points if you ramble.