The American Dream has evolved to embody both a utopian ideal and a dystopian reality.

A new book and two exhibitions delve into the multifaceted concept of the American Dream, highlighting its dual nature as both a utopian ideal and a dystopian reality.

In 2015, Donald Trump declared to his supporters that the American Dream was dead but vowed to revive it if elected president. 

Similarly, as the 2024 US elections approach, President Biden has pledged to restore the American Dream, equating it with his economic policies.

Originating from James Truslow Adams' book "The Epic of America" in 1931, the American Dream has been synonymous with social mobility and individual success. However, with the US ranking 27th in global social mobility according to the 2020 Global Social Mobility Report, the realization of these aspirations seems uncertain.

Exploring the cultural history of American suburbs, the exhibition "Suburbia – Building the American Dream" at Barcelona's Centre of Contemporary Culture (CCCB) sheds light on how architecture shapes societal values beyond mere aesthetics, as described by museum director Judit Carrera.