Feeling a strong connection to a particular culture or nationality, even if you weren't born in that country but spent some formative years there, is not uncommon and can be influenced by various factors:
Formative Years: Childhood experiences can have a profound impact on shaping our identities. Living in a country during your formative years (usually before adolescence) can lead to a sense of familiarity and emotional attachment, creating lasting memories and associations with that culture.
Language and Communication: Language plays a crucial role in forming cultural identity. If you learned English or were exposed to English-speaking environments during your time in the United States, it may have reinforced your connection to American culture.
Social Connections and Relationships: The friendships and relationships you formed during your time in the U.S. could have contributed to your sense of belonging and identification with American culture.
Cultural Exposure: Living in a country exposes you to its customs, traditions, holidays, and way of life. These experiences can leave a lasting impact and shape your cultural preferences and affiliations.
Media and Pop Culture: American media, including movies, TV shows, music, and literature, has a significant influence worldwide. If you were exposed to American pop culture during your time in the U.S., it could have contributed to your sense of identification with American values and ideals.
Nostalgia: Nostalgia can play a powerful role in how we perceive our identities. Memories of a happy and positive time in the U.S. can contribute to a strong emotional connection to that period of your life and, by extension, American culture.
Cultural Similarities: Depending on your country of origin, you may find that some aspects of American culture resonate more with your own cultural background, leading to a sense of shared values and identity.
It's important to remember that cultural identity is a complex and multifaceted aspect of a person's life. While you may feel more American due to your experiences, it doesn't negate your connections to your country of birth or any other cultural backgrounds you may have. Identity is fluid, and it can evolve over time based on experiences and personal growth. Embrace the richness of your diverse experiences and cherish the aspects of different cultures that resonate with you.