Aristocracy, American Style

In Aristocracy, American Style, bestselling historian Nancy Isenberg examines the enduring myth of American meritocracy and the persistent influence of elite dynasties built on wealth, pedigree, and power. Drawing from history, culture, and politics, she reveals how American elites have adopted aristocratic traditions while media and society maintain a façade of equal opportunity. The book offers a thought-provoking perspective on how inequality is deeply rooted in American history and its impact on democracy, challenging the idea that privilege and merit are inherently linked.