Planet Money The story of "Monopoly" and American capitalism
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Jan 26, 2023 Mary Pilon, a journalist and author specializing in sports and business, dives into the intriguing origins of Monopoly. She reveals how the game, often seen as a celebration of wealth, actually emerged from a critique of capitalism crafted by Lizzie McGee. Pilon contrasts the narrative of the game's supposed inventor, Charles Darrow, with McGee's overlooked contributions. The discussion highlights the socio-economic tensions of American capitalism, tracing Monopoly's transformation from a grassroots creation to a cultural icon.
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Darrow's Monopoly Story
- The popular origin story of Monopoly claims Charles Darrow invented it while unemployed.
- He supposedly became a millionaire after selling it to Parker Brothers.
Lizzie McGee's Inspiration
- Lizzie McGee learned about the pitfalls of wealth through her father and Henry George's book Progress and Poverty.
- Inspired, she became an inventor and joined the Women's Single Tax Club.
Single Tax Theory
- Henry George's single tax theory proposed taxing only land to shift the burden to wealthy landlords and address inequality.
- This resonated with many Americans during a time of increasing wealth disparity.
