“The American dream, that dream of a country in which life should be better, richer and fuller for every man, with opportunities for each according to his abilities or achievements . » --James Truslow Adams. The phrase "the American dream" has been developed or refined in various forms, but it is primarily based on Truslow Adams' idea. This concept has been criticized because some believe that the structure of society prevents everyone from achieving such an idealistic goal. The economy, for example, can create a major disadvantage for poor men and women. Other attributes point to inequalities that endanger equity, as well as apathy due to lack of success in achieving the American dream. The American dream gives Americans the hope that if they work hard, they will eventually succeed, even if the person is broke. To understand the construction of this topic, it is necessary to understand the circumstances involved. The Epic of America, the story in which the American dream was constructed, was produced in the 1930s. At that time, the Great Depression was at its height and new President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the “New Deal,” which inspired new hope. In his second inaugural address, he expressed his vision of the expanded role that government would play in the lives of Americans, stating: "The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much, but if we provide enough for those who have too little” (Franklin D. Roosevelt). Thus was born a facade of hope towards poor people who were trying to succeed. In reality, the optimism and dedication given to this dream is disproportionate...... middle of paper ...... on the eve of the American dream, would it still be a dream? Works Cited Adams, Douglas. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. New York: Harmony Books, 1980. 1979. Print. Dickinson, Emily. “Success is considered the sweetest.” PoemHunters.com, December 31, 2002. April 29, 2014. Hargreaves, Steve. “The Myth of the American Dream.” CNNMargent. CNN, December 9, 2013. Web. April 29, 2014. Hughes, Langston. “Dream deferred.” PoemHunters.com, March 27, 2010. April 29, 2014. Hughes, Langston. "Activist." History is a Weapon: Selected from the Poetry of Langston Hughes, April 29, 2014. Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York, NY: Scribner, 1996. Print. Steinbeck, John E. Of Mice and Men. New York: Penguin Group, 1993. 72. Web. April 25, 2014. Roosevelt, Franklin D. “Second Inaugural Address.” Washington DC, January 20, 1937. web. April 24. 2014. .