Inequality in America

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In the United States, income inequality has surged, with wage growth stagnating for the middle class while the top 10% of earners have reaped the most benefits from economic progress. The wealth gap between upper-income and lower-income families has reached unprecedented levels, as highlighted by a Pew Research Center analysis. Disparities exist not only between regions but also within cities, often driven by urban governance and housing policies. Similar trends can be observed in Canada and other countries across the Americas, albeit to varying extents. Additionally, racial, ethnic, and gender inequalities persist, stemming from a lack of social justice, equal opportunities, and access to education and health services. These systemic and structural inequalities are reflected in cultural practices, where literature, theater, and art explore societal differences, frequently along the 'color line.' The essays compiled in this collection examine inequality in America through diverse lenses, including literary and cultural studies, sociology, economics, political science, history, geography, and museum studies, offering a multifaceted analysis of the issue.