The American Dream In Americ The Decline Of The American Dream

The American Dream is the most basic tenant of American life. It is the belief that through hard work and American exceptionalism that anyone can move themselves up to a better economic standing, which leads to a better life. An ideal that almost seemed to be a reality for quite some time in America however, the last few decades have shown a decline of the American Dream. Which leads to the question, what the hell happen to the American Dream? The year is 1946, WWII is over and America was the only nation who’s manufacturing industry was left unscathed. Because of this, along with the worker protections of FDR’s New Deal led to a golden age for the American middle class. At this time nearly anyone can find a decent job, no matter your education, class or experience and live a decent life. This golden age will continue, till 1980 when the 1st Great Recession kicked in (McCleland 550). The combination of other nations rebuilt manufacturing industries, a pattern of poor economic policy, the dismantling of unions, corrupt corporations, new technology, the need for higher education and discrimination will all play a role that lead to

While it isn’t as obvious as it used to be race still does play a huge role in America. For example, a study was conducted that put in resumes with the only difference being it having a white sounding name and black sound names. Those with white sounding names received 50% more call backs than those with black sounding names. Statistics also show that African Americans are twice as likely to be unemployed and earn 25% less when they are employed (Bertand and Mullainathan). While another study shows the house wealth gap between whites and blacks has increased since 1984 from $75,000 to $84,960 in 2011 (Pew 632). All evidence shows the obstacles minorities may face while trying to achieve the American dream and shows that the American dream is not for