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Backstage: Man on the Street

The STEP-UP interns hit the streets of downtown Minneapolis to gather public opinion on famous American figures. They asked: “What is your favorite character in American history, and why?”

Not surprisingly, many people chose a U.S. President as their Greatest American.  Abraham Lincoln was the overwhelming favorite in our polls.  George Washington and Franklin Delano Roosevelt also received multiple mentions.  Several people also chose Great Americans that have advanced the country in the fields of science, philosophy or exploration.  Here is a sampling:

“Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce Indians.  I’ve done lots of reading about them. The Nez Perce were highly respected, and Chief Joseph led them through lots of struggles.”

• Kim from South Haven, Minnesota

“George Washington. He was the figurehead and father of our country.”

• Tony from Minneapolis, Minnesota

“Lincoln.  In the most crucial time of our history, he was able to pull a divided country together.  He also used the Emancipation Proclamation to free the slaves.”

• Evan from Eagan, Minnesota

“FDR.  He led the country through World War II.”

• Matt from Minneapolis, Minnesota

“John F. Kennedy.  He was a great orator and very charismatic.”

• Seamus from St. Paul, Minnesota

“Benjamin Franklin because of his inventions.”

• Linda from Lino Lakes, Minnesota

“Columbus.  He discovered America.”

• Angelica from Minneapolis, Minnesota