For better of for worse, our culture places tremendous importance upon the acquisition of wealth. ... Wealth was also increasingly concentrated in the hands of a small upper-class of rich American entrepreneurs. In urban areas, the mercantile and trading industries were dominated by powerful individuals who had developed personal connections with other businessmen and suppliers "much to the resentment of small-time merchants who found it nearly impossible to find business and local consumers who felt they were being swindled. ...

• Word Count: 2312
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: Graduate