Ahh.. America the beautiful. Land of the free and home of no portion control. We are, after all, the birthplace of deep-fried butter, on-demand delivery services, and Tinder. But we’re also home to some great on-screen portrayals of what it means to truly be American. So to celebrate the birth of this great nation, here are 12 fictional characters — each a pop culture patriot — who live every day like it’s Independence Day.
Captain America
“America” is in his name and his costume is basically an American flag, so… automatic pop culture patriot here.
Iron Man
Proof that American capitalism can do good things.
Claire Underwood, House of Cards
The woman behind the leader of the free world has unwavering support for the president… until she doesn’t.
Leslie Knope, Parks and Recreation
Unabashedly optimistic in the face of local government bureaucracy. Loves powerful women in politics, Joe Biden, and waffles.
G.I. Joe
He’ll fight for freedom wherever there’s trouble. A real American hero… and ultimate pop culture patriot.
Thomas Whitmore, Independence Day
The president we all deserve, deliverer of great speeches, and commander of alien-busting forces.
Wonder Woman
A U.S. government agent AND an Amazonian warrior princess. Uses her gods-given superpowers to defend justice, truth, and gender equality.
Eddie Huang, Fresh off the Boat
Understands and fully takes advantage of the privileges his immigrant parents worked hard to give him.
Hank Hill, King of the Hill
Just your regular propane-selling, beer-drinking, lawn-mowing, law-abiding, sports-loving Texan (born in Yankee Stadium, New York).
Forrest Gump, Forrest Gump
Army vet and Medal of Honor recipient, ping pong diplomat, shrimp boat captain — life really is a box of chocolates.
Selina Meyer, Veep
A prime example that in America, anyone can be president.
Homer Simpson, The Simpsons
When the rest of the world thinks “American,” they imagine Homer: Beer, donuts, and power plants. D’oh!