Let's start with how the federal government works. Essentially, through a complex process, there's a decision about how much we want to spend on various items. The largest of these, apart from health care for the elderly and social security (an insurance program), is military, but it would include things like highways, for example.
With that amount in mind, the question arises how it will be paid for. For most of the 20th Century, the tax burden has been graduated, with those making more money paying a greater percentage of income. That's because as you make less money, the same percentage of your remaining income, after bills, is harder to afford. During and following WWII, up to about the mid 70s, there was a consensus around this structure. Thereafter, accelerating dramatically in 1980 and beyond, this changed as taxes were diminished for the most affluent Americans. At the time, it was argued that this would lead to increased government revenue to make up the shortfall; this proved incorrect. In fact, it led to massive deficits and greater private wealth at the top. At the same time, income from stock ownership has been favored, further diminishing taxes and increasing wealth at the top.
Adding to this, deregulation in certain sectors, largely unrestricted open trade and ever more expensive education (among other factors) have shifted income and wealth upward and diminished social mobility in the US. These are conscious policy choices that affect you and will affect your children and grandchildren. Enjoy.
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