Why the Gun is Civilization by Marko
You need to read this (and please, give proper attribution when you pass it on). You can save the standing ovation until after you've read it all..
For us, the American ideal is personified in the concept of self-reliance, work ethic, honesty/forthrightness, decency, personal property rights, family, religion, an ability to defend oneself from criminals and crooked politicians, and personal responsibility.