As an American, I can guarantee you that there's no such thing as "most Americans" or "the average American." Nice thing about the whole boiling pot nature of the states is you come across the full spectrum of beliefs, personalities, and biases. Unfortunately, some of the most vocal and well known Americans are rich conservative white politicians and egotistical attention starved celebrities.
The whole Boston scare thing was brought about primarily from ignorance and the huge rift that exists between the old and the young.
Also, many baby boomers are certified idiots.