According to the author, the United States differs from European countries primarily in its lack of rigid class distinctions and social hierarchies. In European nations, social and business positions create a clear separation between different classes, such as nobility, military ranks, and various professional groups, which influences personal associations. For instance, the author notes that "a member of the nobility... will hesitate to associate closely with those who hold no such titles," highlighting the caste distinctions that exist in Europe. In contrast, the author asserts that "there is ever... caste distinction in all of these European countries, which does not exist in this country," emphasizing that the United States fosters a more egalitarian society where such strict social barriers are absent.
. Use this excerpt from a speech delivered by a German immigrant in 1917 to answer the question:
“In your native land and mine, there are a multitude of class distinctions, based first upon social and business position in life, less so on financial standing. A member of the nobility, in any of the European countries, will hesitate to associate closely with those who hold no such titles. A high military officer [will not] associate with those of a lesser rank. Bankers [do not] associate with the manufacturers. There is ever … caste distinction in all of these European countries, which does not exist in this country.”
According to the author, how does the United States differ from European countries? Be sure to cite at least one specific example from the text.
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