The 80s and 90s were the golden decades of the American middle class, marked by stability, purpose, and pride.
During this time, 12 key jobs contributed to a generation's sense of security, from factory workers to teachers and truck drivers.
As Jordan Cooper notes, "there was a kind of stability—one built on predictable paychecks, pensions, and lunch breaks in plastic-chaired cafeterias."
Before the internet rewired our lives and “remote work” became a phrase, a college degree wasn’t the only ticket to comfort.
American middle-class families could own a house, send their kids to school, and take a summer road trip in their Buick or minivan.
Author's summary: The 80s and 90s defined American middle class stability.