[Ryzorian]

I don't even think it's a "nationality" persay, not in the sense of Italians or Scottish or Japanese. Wich are almost used as "racial/tribal" affiliations. Sure it is a type of cultural identity, but I think anyone across the globe can become the "American" identity more easily than more nationalistic cultures. I tend to think of "Americanism" as a belief system, almost like a relgion as apposed to a nation with predescribed borders.

For instance, folks of non asian features can try to adapt themselves to Japanese culture but may never truely be seen as "Japanese". While it can be problematic at times in American culture as well, anyone, reguardless of race or nationality can become "American." That's part of the core aspect of chaseing the "American" dream.

I think many of the problems that take place in the states between folks are hold overs from the countries of orgin of those folks preventing them from realizeing what being "American" truely means. I.E. old grudges between Irish and British and the like that are brought here from the old country.

That's my reasoning anyhow.