For most of the twentieth century, the United States was a socialist country. Politics were dominated by Robber Barons prior to the socialist movement. During the pre-socialist, capitalist period known as the Guilded Age, impoverishment was the plight of most Americans. Sadly, Reaganomics and corrupt politicians over the past twenty-five years have healded the return of Robber Barons; and American families are being pushed back into their former state of impoverishment.
To help you remember, here are some photos of Indianapolis during those early capitalist years:
Effects of Capitalism