Why do Americans think they have their own language when they don't?

Many Americans believe they speak a distinct language due to the unique variations and dialects of English that have developed in the U.S. These include regional accents, slang, and idiomatic expressions that differ from British English and other forms of English worldwide. Additionally, the cultural identity associated with American English, influenced by the country's diverse history and Immigration patterns, fosters a sense of linguistic independence. However, fundamentally, American English is a variant of the English language rather than a separate language.