 Whether one refers to them as “robber barons” or “captains of industry,” the rise of commerce in the United States was defined by the winners of the game: those who amassed wealth. The wealthy enjoyed tremendous progress in healthcare, education, and material well-being. Addams was not satisfied with narrow social development and redefined progress according to the common person’s experience. This redefinition continues to elude us today as class disparity in the United States grows. Ironically, Addams is often chastised for expounding middle-class values, which was her point of reference as she started Hull House. Still, Addams’ experiences pushed her to understand and appreciate the immigrant poor in the neighborhood more fully.