The American West (excluding the coast) and especially Alaska have been affected to a lesser degree; generally concentrated economic strips exist along major transportation routes, or scattered pockets. These massive territories are managed more effectively than any other comparable regions in the world. The late 20th Century shows largely voluntary relocation to large population centers. The alternatives are less appealing to many: low wages including crushing poverty, or the decadent tourist industry, which produce nothing.[24 Real wealth comes from the ground. The benefits largely enrich national and multi-national corporations, while leaving the residents a few crumbs. Once the market reaches a point where smaller concerns are profitable, the bottom drops out.[25] The third world is more easily exploited.
[24] A very small percentage survive off the land, or live outside resorts collecting wages reflecting a high cost of living. Ranching operations might benefit individual families controlling interest in large tracts of land. A few small business owners prosper. Federal programs and subsidies provide a living for many. Third world conditions mostly exist on Indian Reservations (who perhaps wisely might actually like it). However, the dollar amounts are minuscule compared with the grand total.
[25] Examples include gold, silver, and especially oil.
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