In the 1840s and 1850s, the wealth of members of the upper-class elite in America was often based on:

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During the 1840s and 1850s, inheritance and marriage were the most common ways for members of the upper-class elite in America to acquire wealth. Inheritance allowed for the passing down of wealth from previous generations, while marriage often involved the combining of two wealthy families' assets. Talent, religiosity, and work ethic were not necessarily significant factors in determining wealth during this time period.

In the 1840s and 1850s, the Wealth of Members of the Upper-Class