Fact Check: Gen Z is the least proud generation to be an American.

Fact Check: Gen Z is the least proud generation to be an American

What We Know

Recent polling data indicates a significant decline in national pride among Americans, particularly within Generation Z (those born from 1997 to 2012). According to a Gallup poll conducted from June 2 to June 19, 2025, only 41% of Gen Z respondents reported feeling "very" or "extremely" proud to be American. This is notably lower than the pride levels reported by older generations: 58% of Millennials, 71% of Gen X, 75% of Baby Boomers, and 83% of the Silent Generation expressed similar sentiments (Newsweek).

The overall national pride among Americans has also reached a record low, with only 58% of adults expressing pride in their country, marking the lowest level since Gallup began tracking this sentiment in 2001 (Washington Post). The decline in pride is particularly pronounced among younger voters, as evidenced by the shifting political landscape where the youth vote has shown a tendency to lean rightward in recent elections (Newsweek).

Analysis

The evidence presented in the polling data is compelling and indicates a clear trend: Generation Z exhibits the lowest levels of national pride compared to older generations. This finding is corroborated by multiple sources, including AP News and Gallup, which highlight the generational divide in feelings of patriotism. Jeffrey Jones, a senior editor at Gallup, noted that "each generation is less patriotic than the prior generation," reinforcing the notion that Gen Z's pride is significantly lower than that of their predecessors (AP News).

However, it is essential to consider the context of these findings. The decline in national pride is not solely attributed to generational differences; it also reflects broader political and social dynamics. For instance, the data shows a stark partisan divide, with 92% of Republicans expressing pride compared to only 36% of Democrats (AP News). This suggests that factors such as political affiliation and current events play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of national pride.

The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is strong, as they are based on reputable polling organizations and news outlets. Gallup, in particular, has a long-standing history of conducting public opinion research, making its findings credible. However, it is also important to recognize potential biases in how different demographics may interpret patriotism, especially in a politically charged environment.

Conclusion

The claim that "Gen Z is the least proud generation to be an American" is True. The data clearly indicates that only 41% of Gen Z feels proud to be American, significantly lower than any other generation. This trend is supported by multiple reputable sources and reflects a broader decline in national pride that is influenced by generational and partisan factors.