In the annals of American history, the United States that was so economically productive, why were there so many people in poverty and so few who were wealthy? Economist and social reformer Henry George found an answer to this burning question by analyzing the workings of capitalism. He concluded that economic progress tremendously increases the value of land. Those who own the land reap great, unfair rewards from rent. This inappropriate prosperity for a few, George felt, was a barrier to economic growth because it suppressed efficiency. His solution, published in his book 'Progress and Poverty' in 1879, was to have government tax away all rent. This "single tax" would bring in enough revenue so that another taxes could be eliminated, and
