Alexis de Tocqueville wrote of America’s basic values. Describe and explain at least three of the 5 values that he saw as distinctly American. Make sure you write a minimum of three sentences!

Question

For full credit, your response should have the following included:

At least THREE of the five values that Alexis de Tocqueville wrote about. (Liberty, egalitarianism, individualism, populism, and laissez-faire)
An explanation and description of the THREE values that you chose to write about.
You should have at least 3 sentences written, including a sentence starter.

For example, "Alexis de Tocqueville wrote about America's basic values, including..." and then be sure to expand on each one with a description and explanation of the meaning.
Helpful Hint! Always double check your grammar, spelling, and punctuation before submitting. This is practice for the writing portion for your US History EOC Exam in May.

Answer 1

Alexis de Tocqueville wrote about America's basic values, including liberty, individualism, and egalitarianism. Liberty, for Tocqueville, represented the fundamental freedom Americans enjoyed, which allowed individuals to express their opinions, pursue their interests, and make personal choices without oppressive government interference. This value was seen as vital to the development of a democratic society where individuals could thrive and contribute to the common good.

Individualism was another key value that Tocqueville identified, which emphasized the importance of personal responsibility and self-reliance. He observed that Americans tended to prioritize their own goals and aspirations over collective identities, allowing for a diverse society where personal ambition could lead to innovation and progress. This focus on individualism also encouraged citizens to participate actively in civic life and take responsibility for their own well-being.

Lastly, Tocqueville highlighted egalitarianism, the notion that all individuals are fundamentally equal, especially in terms of opportunity. He noted that American society offered more social mobility than many European countries, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to pursue upward mobility. This value cultivated a sense of community and encouraged democratic participation, as citizens believed their voices mattered in shaping the future of their nation.