The year was 1928. It was the end of the first decade after a devastating
world war. Like the rest of the 20s, it roared. The United States elected
its 31st president, Herbert Hoover. Along with 62 other countries, it also
renounced future wars. The "final triumph over poverty," as it was phrased,
was supposedly in sight. The market soared and just as giddily dipped. Amelia
Earhart flew the Atlantic. Depending on their income, people drove Fords,
Chevrolets, Plymouths, DeSotos, Chryslers, Stutzes, Auburns, or nothing at
all. They danced the Charleston.