els. People can more easily voice their opinions and

els. People can more easily voice their opinions and control their government at the local level. Therefore, my responsibility to preserve our system of government includes participation I might use are becoming involved in citizens’ groups or writing letters to the newspaper editor.

The great men in our history are the third part of our heritage. These men realized their responsibilities to the nation. They exercised the freedoms given them and made their voices heard in the government. Most importantly, they took full advantage of the equality of opportunity Americans have. No matter what social status one has, one is free to use one’s talents to gain “fame and fortune.” These historical figures achieved personal gain as well as serving their country. One example is Abraham Lincoln. He was a backwoods boy whose hard work and intelligence led him to the Presidency of the United States. In this position he worked diligently to preserve the Union.

The explorers, Lewis and Clark, are another example. They devoted their time and talents to surveying a vast new territory, the Louisiana Purchase. The knowledge they gathered benefited thousands of settlers. Their work helped our young nation grow and become stronger.

The examples of these men point out my responsibility towards preservation of the ideal they supported. I should develop my talents to the fullest and use them not only for personal gain, but for the service of my country.

I have shown that our American heritage consists of three things. These are: an ideal of freedom and equality, a system of government in which the people rule, and great men who serve as examples to use. My responsibility to preserve and perpetuate this great heritage lies in my future actions as a citizen. My greatest incentive to accept this responsibility is the wish that future generations might enjoy the American way of life just as I and my forebearers did.