*EDIT: I think I misinterpreted your point, but I'm going to leave this because I think it's valid. That probably contributes, however the reality is that most

*EDIT: I think I misinterpreted your point, but I'm going to leave this because I think it's valid. That probably contributes, however the reality is that most Americans (particularly below-average earners) are living paycheck to paycheck and therefore don't have opportunities to significantly contribute to savings. I suspect that the average American is far more affected by compound debt rather than compound savings. Rather, I think that there are 2 main factors driving upward mobility of low-skill/replaceable/disposable workers: 1. Over time, some are able to break into industries where they can build a career instead of working dead-end minimum-wage jobs. 2. Many busted their asses so that their kids could get a good education. Their kids saw how hard their parents struggled and were motivated to pursue stable careers.