The "American people" refers to the citizens and residents of the United States as a whole. It highlights shared identity while recognizing diverse backgrounds, cultures, and views.
Half of the American people have never read a newspaper. Half never voted for President. One hopes it is the same half. Gore Vidal
We're going to have the best educated American people in the world. Dan Quayle
If the liberties of the American people are ever destroyed, they will fall by the hands of the Romish clergy. Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette
I pledge you, I pledge myself, to a new deal for the American people. Franklin D. Roosevelt
The American people are very generous people and will forgive almost any weakness, with the possible exception of stupidity. Will Rogers
If this humor be the safety of our race, then it is due largely to the infusion into the American people of the Irish brain. William Howard Taft