Rags-to-riches stories have been popular in every time and place. The story of Abraham Lincoln whose life led from the log cabin to the White House is a staple of Americana. So are the stories of Horatio Alger. He started writing just after the civil war. He wrote exclusively about underprivileged young people who through honesty, preseverance, and diligence went on to win fame and wealth. Ragged Dick and Tattered Tom were just two of the heroes he wrote about in over a hundred dime novels. Nearer to our own time are the rags-to-riches stories of two real life people. Lorreta Lynne, born a coal miner's daughter, became a star of country music. Elvis, the poor boy from Mississippi, became the king of rock and roll.

Just think about the enduring appeal of these rags-to-riches stories. Who a…