Questions:

Examine the U.S. Census Bureau's graph depicting trends in poverty rates by age during the years 1959-1995.

1. During what period did poverty rates decline most rapidly (for all age groups)? What occurred during this period that might explain this?
2. Which group experienced the largest decline in poverty rates during this period?
3. For which age range has there been the smallest reduction in poverty rates?
4. The federal government has recently moved to tax the major part of social security benefits for higher-income retired individuals. Does this graph provide any information that could be used either for or against such a program? As part of your discussion, provide arguments for and against applying some form of means-testing on social insurance programs.