The American Dream is a concept that advocates the belief that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative. Popularized during the Great Depression in 1931 by James Truslow Adams, the notion of the American Dream instilled hope into those that had lost everything. The precepts behind what is still used to encourage and motivate success encompasses ideals of freedom, homeownership and a better life for the next generation. All good and noble things, the American Dream throughout the years has not only changed lives and families, but also our nation through hard work and perseverance.