text: what is exactly is the "the american dream"? (see below)? it used to be a nice house and a white picket fence.  at least that is what i've commonly heard. it seems that is very easy to get now adays with loan programs and financial assistance.  what is the american dream? the american dream is more of an idea. what it is for most people is finical stability and being able to provide for their family. now instead of the nice house with the white picket fence for most people it may be sending all their children to college or affording that time-share on the beach. it's different for everyone.