Why did the 21st century begin with inequality in the US unlike anything seen since the late nineteenth century? That's the question that drives my research, teaching, and service as a professor of history at Loyola University Chicago. I have been fortunate enough to hold fellowships and teaching positions across North America and Western Europe, where I have explored that conundrum in classrooms, public talks, interviews, and writing projects, including my latest book, Indentured Students.