1.A really surprising fact about wealth inequality in the United States is that the richest 1% of people have more money than the bottom 90% put together. This fact is important because it shows how a small group of wealthy individuals holds most of the money, while most people struggle to get by with much less. It points out serious problems with how people can move up economically, how much they earn, and how easily they can get important resources. This big gap in wealth can lead to long-lasting issues with social stability, education opportunities, and even who has power in politics.

2.Wealth inequality has significant societal effects, including economic instability, limited social mobility, political divisions, and unequal access to essential services like healthcare and education. When wealth is unevenly distributed, lower-income individuals struggle to achieve financial stability. One major consequence is the disparity in educational opportunities. Schools in affluent neighborhoods receive more funding from local property taxes, resulting in better facilities and qualified teachers. In contrast, schools in poorer areas often face overcrowding and outdated resources, leaving low-income students at a disadvantage.Healthcare is similarly affected,wealthy individuals can afford quality insurance and preventive care, while those with lower incomes often lack access to basic healthcare, leading to poorer health outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these disparities, as low-income communities experienced higher infection and death rates due to inadequate healthcare access.A example of wealth inequality is the rising cost of housing and increasing homelessness. In a city like New York, soaring home prices make it nearly impossible for middle- and lower-income individuals to find affordable housing, as wealthy investors drive prices even higher.