Sample Essays

Being an American essays will focus on various civic values and will reference a wide range of Founding documents and individuals from American history. There are no civic values, documents, or figures which are "preferred" or "better," provided the document is from 1760-1800 and the figure is from American history.

A well-written essay will completely adhere to the topic and fully answer the question. These essays approach the topic with original and lively prose. They include a detailed discussion of a civic value(s); a thoughtful personal response to the value(s); and an outstanding critique of the value(s) as it appears in at least one Founding document.

Three sample essays are posted here in order to give you a general idea of what submissions might look like in terms of focus and structure. Please keep in mind that they serve as samples only and not as endorsements of the values, documents and individuals referenced.

Example Essay One: Perseverance (Excellent)

Example Essay Two: Courage and Integrity (Good)

Example Essay Three: Courage (Poor)