Résumé:
The Protestant work ethic, rooted in the teachings of the Reformation, has played a crucial
role in shaping American cultural and economic identity. This dissertation examines the ways
in which Protestant values, particularly those emphasizing hard work, individual
responsibility, frugality, and success as a sign of divine favor, have influenced the evolution of
the American Dream. It traces the historical development of these values from colonial
America to modern times, exploring their impact on economic practices, social mobility, and
national identity. Drawing on Max Weber’s concept of the Protestant ethic, this study
investigates the role of Puritanism in shaping early American attitudes toward labor and
success. It further examines how these values were institutionalized in the 19th and 20th
centuries, influencing economic expansion, industrialization, and the formation of the middle
class. Additionally, the study addresses contemporary challenges to the Protestant work ethic,
including rising economic inequality, globalization, and shifting cultural attitudes toward
work and success. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the research integrates historical
analysis, sociological theory, and economic perspectives. Primary sources such as sermons,
economic treatises, and political speeches are analyzed alongside secondary literature in
American history, religious studies, and economic sociology. By providing a comprehensive
historical and cultural analysis, this dissertation contributes to the understanding of the
enduring power of Protestant values in shaping American aspirations and economic behaviors.
