Cool Thread. I will add my personal U.S. opinion. I have never been overseas, but I have worked with many foriegn-born people.
U.S. I do not have children myself, but the OP has a point about the way we raise our kids. Of course, the majority of American children enjoy loving households, but far too many grow up extemely poor, hungry, homeless, or abused. Our education system is meh. Our public schools do graduate some exceptionally well educated youngsters, while again failing those on the margins. American foriegn policy is...kind of...hmmm. But, hold on, Americans are also some the the most charitable people in the world. When other countries suffer natural catastrophies, American rescue teams and relief organizations are some of the first to offer their aid. Not really sure about the watching the neighbors comment however. I have only lived in the West/Midwest, but out here we give our nieghbors plenty of privacy. There is actually some criticism that we are too clanish at times. We do have some good food, thanks to people settling here from around the world. Speaking of food, we export alot of corn, wheat, etc. to feed the world.
France! I like the French. They are some of the bravest fighters in history. In WWI, French soldiers mutinied only for better conditions, and despite the horrific losses, those soldiers still went over the top. I have not met many French people, but I know some people who have lived and studied in France. I am told that the French are nice to my visitiing American friends and family. I don't really drink wine. *ducks*
Brits. Where would we be without them? I have met and spent time with a few English, and always found them to be engaging and intielligent. And good drinkers. One of my favorite quotes was shouted at me by a British guy who was carrying two cases of Budwiser into a party, "American beer is piss!". Yeah. High culture and punks. The Queen and soccer riots.
Poles. I have worked with some Poles, they are super nice, and inquisitive. They were always improving their English, reading newspapers, and making freinds. Proud of their Nationality and culture. Good food.
Russians/former U.S.S.R. Well, to be fair, as with all my other interactions with foriegn-born friends, I have met and interacted with people who have traveled to the U.S. to work and/or study. So, most of the Russian and Kazak's I know are in the U.S. to avoid mandatory military service. If they stay long enough, they age out. Super nice guys who love to help out. They do like the ladies and flirt very overtly. Nazim is a friend of mine, and came over for Thanksgiving once. Not afraid to point out the good and bad of their homecountries.
Africans. The African men I have worked closely with are among the nicest people I have ever met. They have real interest in my life and affairs, and always wish me prosperity, good health, etc. I saw a guy I worked with two years ago, and he inquired after my mother's health in a wonderful way.
That is about it from Omaha.
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