Quilts are made up of unique bits and pieces that, when sewn together, create an embracing cover. By studying the characteristic patchwork pieces that define our American character, we can achieve a more realistic picture of our country's culture and history. Being an American can mean different things to different people. How do new immigrants adjust to this complex society? Is being an American a cultural experience, or does it relate to our government and the ideals that it holds forth? Are there certain freedoms that attract newcomers to our shores? Looking at our history in the context of these questions, we can embrace diversity and celebrate our unity as a nation. This, in turn, allows us to decide if being an American is determined by a set of cultural and/or idealistic parameters. In preparation for this unit, we will review political and philosophical ideals and how they relate to my students' lives. They will have already studied the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. The promises made in these two documents have held out a hand of hope to people around the world. It is in this arena that Americans can find a common uniting ground which covers the many diverse groups which make up the American experience. The objective of this unit, designed for my 7th grade Texas History classes, will be to help them understand how they all blend into the pattern of a diverse, yet united, American quilt.