Who should be responsible for an American retirement? For the early part of the nation's history, that was never a consideration. The fate of older Americans was on them. Then in the early 20th century, a host of movements ushered in company pensions and Social Security, helping to create the modern-day idea of retirement for many workers. But as pensions fade into 401(k)s and Social Security teeters, workers again find themselves bearing more responsibility and risk of financing their golden years. 

This episode is part of The Wall Street Journal’s USA250: The Story of the World’s Greatest Economy, a collection of articles, videos and podcasts aiming to offer a deeper understanding of how America has evolved.

Further Reading:

The Struggle To Keep America’s Workers Safe

An Economy Built on Speculation

Americans Are Claiming Social Security Early, Fearful of Its Future

This New Investing Idea Isn’t Right for Your Retirement Plan

How to Keep This Hot Stock Market From Melting Your Retirement Dreams

Lloyd Blankfein Misses Being Goldman Sachs CEO—Mostly When There’s a Market Crisis

Wall Street Is Pushing Private Assets Into 401(k)s. We Asked Whether Anyone Wants Them.

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