9781422274132

WORDS TO UNDERSTAND

absolute poverty— a condition where the household income is below the necessary level to maintain basic living standards (food, shelter, or other necessities). Hoovervilles— shantytowns built by those who were unemployed or destitute during the Great Depression. relative poverty— a condition where household income is significantly below the average income of a community. A person living in relative poverty is poor when compared to others in the community, although they may be able to afford food, shelter, and other necessities. wealth inequality— unequal distribution of assets, including homes, vehicles, savings, investments, and businesses.

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