The Bouviers and the Lees alike operated within the great American tradition of immigrant ambition, which held that in making yourself anew, you had the right to embellish the past.
The Bouviers and Lees exemplified the classic American immigrant spirit characterized by a desire for reinvention and self-improvement. This tradition encourages individuals to reshape their lives while also having the liberty to enhance their personal histories. It reflects a belief in the transformative power of ambition and the pursuit of new identities in a new land.
In her book, Alice Kaplan explores how this immigrant ambition influenced the lives of prominent figures like Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, Susan Sontag, and Angela Davis. Their journeys embody the idea that one can achieve greatness by embracing change while simultaneously honoring and embellishing their heritage.
