[Verse 1] After the war in forty-eight America stood at history's gate Factories humming, workers strong Wages rising, lifting all along But what made this golden era shine? Was it policy or stars align? [Chorus] Policy plus structure, hand in hand Built prosperity across the land Unions strong and minimum wage Global position set the stage Policy plus structure, that's the key To broad-based opportunity [Verse 2] Labor unions had their day Collective bargaining paved the way Thirty percent of workers joined Their voices heard, their power coined But structures helped this movement grow Pent-up demand made wages flow [Chorus] Policy plus structure, hand in hand Built prosperity across the land Unions strong and minimum wage Global position set the stage Policy plus structure, that's the key To broad-based opportunity [Bridge] Was it Roosevelt's New Deal laws? Or post-war boom without a pause? Manufacturing ruled supreme When Europe rebuilt the American dream Both factors played their vital part Policy gave structure its head start [Verse 3] Progressive taxes, safety nets GI Bill opened education's gates But dollar dominance worldwide Gave American workers swelling pride When global competition was weak Our middle class reached its peak [Chorus] Policy plus structure, hand in hand Built prosperity across the land Unions strong and minimum wage Global position set the stage Policy plus structure, that's the key To broad-based opportunity [Outro] So when you ask what made it work Both answers lie beneath the murk Institutions, laws, and global might Made worker paychecks shine so bright Policy plus structure, remember well The golden age prosperity tale
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