Tuesday, July 2nd, 2013
Despite a contentious political climate and a recovering economy, an overwhelming majority (82%) of Americans say they are proud to be an American. As the nation gears up for Independence Day, a new poll conducted by Public Religion Research Institute found that the most common reasons Americans gave for being proud of their country were related to military endeavors or the level of freedom in American society.
Other responses included humanitarian assistance (8%) and the values of equality and opportunity (6%). Dr. Robert P. Jones, the CEO of PRRI, described the close connection Americans feel towards their military:
America’s military achievements and the willingness of Americans to serve their country in the military stand out as a source of pride for many Americans.
So how do Americans express their pride? 81% of those polled said they were very likely to thank members of the military for their service, 69% sing the national anthem, and 59% would display the American flag at their home.