I've never carried a 1911 but I wouldn't choose a sidearm based on what is "American". You need to carry something you are comfortable with and you can shoot well. There are a wide range of firearms that people carry on here. XD, Glock, M&P, LCP, Bodyguard etc etc. Most were chosen due to reliability, how they fit the hand, how well they shoot with it, ease of carrying (could be concealability) etc etc.