Those are the first 4 words from the beginning of every Star Trek and Star Trek TNG episode. The article pointed out that many other countries see frontiers as dangerous places to avoid. In our history, the frontier is where opportunity begins. That difference in attitudes probably explains a lot about the views of freedom and individuality between most Americans and other places, especially Old Europe. Too bad that so many of them completely miss the mark when they think calling an American a cowboy is an insult. The cowboy is a powerful symbol of freedom. As Willie Nelson wrote, "My heros have always been cowboys."

The chance to make something of yourself regardless of where you were born or who your ancestors were also explains why so many people still immigrate here every year (legal and illegal).