The American Dream

Rifka's family's journey is in pursuit of their American dream; the idea that in the United States, anyone can succeed regardless of their family background, race, or religion. However, this idea is contradicted and mediated by several harsh truths about the reality of succeeding in America. First of all, Rifka's journey is indicative of what many immigrants went through to reach the United States. Her family was persecuted in their former country, mostly for their religion: as Jews, the soldiers often came and picked on them, taking their property and discriminating against them, particularly because they were poor Jews. To escape, however, they had to go through many difficulties: long and dangerous train rides, seemingly inexplicable customs and border controls with corrupt officials, disease and death. The dream of the United States awaits for them at the end of their journey. After all, their sons have...