Why is it significant that Walt Whitman discusses the mechanic, carpenter, mason, and boatman? What is his point? Consider other perspectives: how might the American experience depicted in this poem differ from that of immigrants, or of African-Americans (remember, slavery was abolished in 1865 - 10 years after this poem was written)?
Compare this poem with your vision of America today. Using supportive evidence, answer this question: How has America changed over time?