What is "the American Dream"?

The American Dream means different things for different people. Throughout history, the American Dream has changed. For some colonists from Europe, it meant escaping the overcrowding and perpetual wars of Europe; for some, it meant practicing one's religion the way one pleased; for others, it simply meant a fresh start without a criminal record or debt.
The American Dream continues to be variations on the themes from the colonial era. Historically, people have come to America to escape persecution. People come to America for economic reasons—millions of Latin American refugees come to America to escape poverty and the social issues involved with poverty, such as crime. People come for the freedom to buy, say, or do anything they choose, provided their choice does not harm anyone else.
Even though the question is vague, I hope that I have given some food for thought with this answer. You can look at the American Dream today or the American Dream historically. You can also make connections as people still come to the United States hoping for opportunities and in the hope that their basic needs for survival are met.