No. They obviously were not more than a few decades ago (race and gender equality were issues that were not even paid lip service to until the 20th century, in

No. They obviously were not more than a few decades ago (race and gender equality were issues that were not even paid lip service to until the 20th century, in many cases the late 20th century.) Even today, now that we pay lip service to these issues, they are not completely ironed out. The other issues that remain today are nothing new, and cover the rest of the 20th century. For whatever it is worth, top tier universities (particularly Ivy League schools) are very good with need-based scholarships. If Harvard accepts you, Harvard will see to it that you can afford to attend.