I think this table shows some disturbing trends. It seems that the "poor" were a lot better off thirty years ago than they are today. In 1970, the lowest class's aggregate income was about 10% of the highest class. But by 1997, their wages dropped so much, and the rich were given so many tax breaks, that gap increased to almost 20%. It shows how lopsided the economic state of the nation is.

All of the classes show decreases in income percentages, except for the highest class. Their percentages increase every year! I think it's a good example of how much power money and wealth can get you. No matter how bad the market got, or how high taxes went up during that time, the wealthiest 20% of the population show nothing but prosperity.

I would say that my family would probably fit into the second category, and the outlook doesn't look good. If these trends continue, the rich will get richer, and everyone else will get poorer!!