Many typically "American" characteristics are a result of {{U}}(1) {{/U}}. There is remarkable ethnic {{U}}(2) {{/U}} in the U. S.. Among its population of {{U}}(3) {{/U}} million,{{U}} (4) {{/U}}% is White, 12% African American, and 8% {{U}}(5) {{/U}}. Many Americans don't like {{U}}(6) {{/U}} being made about them because they see themselves as very unique. {{U}}(7) {{/U}} is probably the most highly esteemed value in the American culture, and Americans may feel uncomfortable when given more help than they need, because they see {{U}}(8) {{/U}} as weakness. The focus on the individual has led to a more {{U}}(9) {{/U}} society. For example, phrases like "drop by any time" are others ways of saying {{U}}(10) {{/U}} {{U}}(11) {{/U}} and frankness are more important to Americans than "saving face", and they may bring up impolite conversation topics which you may find {{U}}(12) {{/U}}, controversial or even offensive. This encourages them to dissolve {{U}}(13) {{/U}} themselves. Some behaviors have culturally become associated with straightforwardness. For example, a firm {{U}}(14) {{/U}} is often interpreted as a sign of sincerity, so is direct eye contact. To most Americans, honesty is always preferred to {{U}}(15) {{/U}} {{U}}(16) {{/U}} is considered an important attribute, and you will need to offer an apology and {{U}}(17) {{/U}} if you are more than {{U}}(18) {{/U}} minutes late. Americans also value achievement and {{U}}(19) {{/U}}, so sports {{U}}(20) {{/U}} are often displayed in their homes.