There are several perspectives on what constitutes American exceptionalism. It has been defined as the idea that the US and its people differ qualitatively from other nations in terms of values, political and economic opportunities, and social mobility. Critics argue that other powerful nations have also viewed themselves as exceptional. While the US welcomes immigrants more than other countries, it is important to acknowledge that the land was originally inhabited by indigenous populations. The concept of American exceptionalism has roots in Puritan beliefs and was influenced by the American Revolution and high rates of immigration throughout history.

1. American Exceptionalism Lecture 3