Chapter 2 Summary and Analysis

This chapter introduces the Walker family, established for several generations in the upper class of St. Louis. D.D. Walker holds strong political views, many of them controversial. Some of these include segregation, eugenics (the idea that people with mental or physical handicaps should be kept from breeding), and the use of lynching and whipping posts as punishments for crime. D.D. Walker is succeeded by his son, George Herbert Walker, known as Bert. Bert is extremely good at making money and amasses a large fortune through stock speculation. His fortune continues to be the financial stability behind future generations of the family.

The Walker family live in the highest circles of St. Louis society but also have strong ties to New York City and Kennebunkport, Maine. A twenty-something Prescott Bush arrives in St. Louis to start his first job and...