This first novel of a projected Trilogy follows Solomon and Rebecca Gold and their chldren and the children's families and three generations of the Jamison family from the 1890's through the first years of the great Depression. While it centers on Baltimore, Maryland, where the immigrant Golds settle and the declining Jamisons were once important
members of society, the family members will spread out to New York, Detroit and Los Angeles over the course of the three decades. The nation grows powerful during the Progressive Era, is involved iin World War I and parties during the roraring twenties and new technology changes the lives of average Americans. The stories of different family members show how the political and technological changes affected ordinary lives.