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Podcasts Take Two
Myth of 'classless' America debunked in 'White Trash'
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Jun 30, 2016
Listen 7:49
Myth of 'classless' America debunked in 'White Trash'
A new book seeks to shine a light on the invisible hierarchies that have always been a part of America's social fabric.
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A new book seeks to shine a light on the invisible hierarchies that have always been a part of America's social fabric.

America is a country where anything is possible. Or at least, that's supposed to be the case. 

Our national identity is linked to a "bootstrap mentality" and the promise of upward mobility. In the land of opportunity, class barriers don't exist, or can be overcome by hard work. But a new book seeks to dispel the myth of a "classless" America, and shine a light on the invisible hierarchies that have always been a part of the country's social fabric.

Nancy Isenberg is the author of "White Trash: The 400-year untold history of class in America." She joined host Libby Denkmann with more.

'White Trash' excerpt

To listen to the full interview, click on the blue audio player above.