C) The title of the film is based on Mrs. Ortiz’s description of her daughters as her American girls.  Describe how each of her three daughters represents an aspect of the American experience and/or an American identity.

Throughout the film American Girls, Mrs. Ortiz repeatedly describes her three daughters as such. When contrasted with her own extremely poor upbringing this is entirely understandable. The oldest daughter embodies American exceptionalism, that if one works hard enough they can rise from very little to greatness. The younger two daughters personify entitlement. Neither of them puts in the same effort as their older sister yet they expect certain luxuries regardless.

The oldest sister graduates from Columbia University during the course of the film. She worked extremely hard to get there and maintained this ethic until her graduation. She was on the track team and built websites to supplement her income. Despite the difficulties, she even pursue an acting career, taking what jobs are available. She is willing to work to achieve any goal she sets for herself, rising from her limited origins to the pinnacle of scholarship.

The younger sisters don’t share their sibling’s motivation. They ask their parents for favors, such as money for shoes etc. and skimp on their work. They expect electricity, free time, food, and few chores; all very American luxuries. In the Dominican Republic, their parents went most of the day without electricity, worked from dawn till after dusk and lived incredibly simply.