This wide-ranging and accessible survey of poverty in America examines every important facet of the issue, from historical and socioeconomic contributors to poverty to programs, policies, and ideas crafted to reduce income inequality and poverty across the USA. Specific attention is given to shifting ideological views and approaches to poverty and poor relief, major historical actions, statutes, and practices adopted to mitigate poverty’s various causes and effects, and trends related to mobility and wealth and income disparity.

Important areas of coverage include the impact of depressions, recessions, economic "booms," and social welfare laws on poverty. Other subjects receiving extensive coverage include the linkage between educational attainment, employment, social capital, family structure, housing security, homeownership, and geography on poverty. Readers will better understand efforts that have been made to alleviate poverty, restore a thriving middle class, and improve prospects for social and economic mobility.

An array of complementary materials on poverty and economic inequality in America are also provided, including a suite of personal essays, a general bibliography, primary documents, glossary of terms, and chronology.