American dream: what is it exactly?

Most people tend to perceive that they can only find success out of the country. America to be exact. I just can't help but wonder why they always whine about how difficult living in their own country is and that the only solution to their catastrophic burden is to escape, when there are a lot of opportunities to be found. Problem is, they don't find. America is their ultimate dream destination of people seeking for money, for adventure, for a lifetime of lucrative bliss. America alone. Not for me.

to me the american dream is freedom, the right to have a family, have your choice of religon, and jobs- the chance the have the best of everything and a prosperous life. People came to american for the american dream...and I hope they find it!

In my experience the American Dream refers to the fact that in this country you supposedly can come from nothing (no background of great success, no family money and sometimes not even an education) and with all the hard work and dedication you put into your life you can make it a success...you can become the next "Oprah" for example...a person who had no money or family persuasion that had a goal and achieved it through all the obstacles and hard times they encountered...they can come from another country and share in a lifestyle that may not be available to them in their home country...The American Dream is really about achievement without the benefit of wealthy prominent family and the perks that provides...it refers to the goals reached and successes acheived by someone who starts with nothing...these don't have to be monetary..they can be personal goals such as getting a five star education, or establishing a charitable organization or changing a life through your own hard work and desire...sort of a "if you can dream it, you can do it" mind set... Some say the American Dream is having your own home, family , car and job...just all the things a person might desire in life...and in some countries this is not as accessible as it is here in the USA...Since I have not lived in other countries I am shy to say that this is mainly true of those who come to America...but it is how I understand the American Dream...Does anyone agree?...Any other ideas on the meaning of this phrase?